What does a window made of popsicle sticks have to do with the future of the glazing industry?
More than you might think.
On October 17, 2026, our President, Mike O’Neal, volunteered alongside the National Glass Association (NGA) at The Big Build, hosted by the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.
The event welcomed approximately 3,500 children, introducing them to construction, design, and the skilled trades through hands-on activities and conversations with industry professionals.
But beyond the activities, events like this address something our industry needs to think about: How can we expect the next generation to pursue careers they haven’t had the opportunity to discover?
A Small Window, a Bigger Picture
At the NGA booth, children created miniature windows using popsicle sticks and colorful coffee filters. Each finished window became part of a growing cityscape, showing how individual elements contribute to a larger structure.
Industry volunteers also shared real glass samples and spoke with families about the material and the industry behind it.
It’s a simple activity, but there’s an important lesson behind it.
Every building we see is the result of many specialized trades working together. Even something as familiar as a window represents an entire industry of professionals involved in design, fabrication, and installation.
Introducing children to those connections helps them see construction as more than a finished building. It introduces them to the people and skills that make it possible.
Workforce Development Starts with Awareness
As an industry, we spend considerable time discussing recruitment, apprenticeships, and the need for skilled workers. These conversations are essential, but they often focus on individuals who are already considering construction as a career.
What about the young people who don’t yet know these opportunities exist?
At Chesapeake Glazing, we’ve invested in our registered glazing apprenticeship program to create a structured pathway into the trade. But we also recognize that developing the next generation starts well before someone is ready to enter the workforce.
Sometimes, it begins with a conversation, an introduction to a new material, or the opportunity to build something with their own hands.
We can’t know whether a child attending The Big Build will eventually become a glazier, project manager, or industry leader. What we can do is make sure they know those opportunities exist.
We’re grateful to the National Glass Association for inviting us to participate and to the National Building Museum for creating an opportunity to connect young people with the skilled trades.
Because building the future of our industry starts with giving the next generation a reason to see themselves in it.
