EDUCATION PROVIDER PROGRAM (EPP)

Megatrends are long-term global trends that impact societies in complex ways, including the design of the built environment. This course examines seven megatrends and how they may inspire kitchen and bath designers to create accessible, diverse, and sustainable solutions to our society's social and environmental issues.

This 1-hour introductory online course features leaders in inclusion and accessibility, and people with lived experience and will introduce you to accessibility and disability inclusion concepts. Available anytime, anywhere, this self-directed on-demand course will help you get started on your accessibility journey and begin to break down attitudinal barriers. 

This 4-week online course will provide you with increased understanding of the needs of people with disabilities, the barriers to participation and how our physical spaces can be made more accessible. Enhance your knowledge of Universal Design and meaningful access in the built environment through case studies and be introduced to RHFAC methodology. 

This 8-week online course trains built environment professionals to understand the needs of people with varying disabilities, and rate spaces from a human-centered perspective. Through the application of the RHFAC methodology, you will learn the practical skills needed to measure the accessibility of existing sites and incorporate a Universal Design lens to your projects.

This course explores the evolution and benefits of integrated door systems in modern architecture, emphasizing their role in enhancing building design, occupant safety, and code compliance. Design professionals will gain insights into how these systems support project efficiency, life safety strategies, and seamless architectural integration. Topics include fire-rated assemblies, smoke containment, and collaboration between architects and manufacturers for integrated door systems. Participants will also examine the regulatory standards, documentation, and certifications necessary for effective specification and inspection for an informed design process.

In this one hour course we will review compression-seal technology for high-performance window and door systems. Through a discussion that includes definitions and application examples, the design professional will be able to select the high-performance window or door system to best suit their design. We will conclude the hour by outlining the performance benefits of compression-seal technology and offering several case studies for consideration.

This course equips architects and design professionals with the knowledge needed to specify Advanced PVC products that enhance fire resistance in both residential and commercial settings. It explores the principles of ignition resistance and non-combustibility, along with the significance of flame spread ratings in material selection. Participants will examine how Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) compliance influences design decisions in fire-prone areas and review the ASTM E84 test to assess the performance of PVC engineered polymers. The course highlights strategies for integrating these fire-resistant materials to improve building resilience and minimize the potential for structural damage.

This course explores the shift from traditional credential-based access systems to advanced biometric technologies, highlighting how these innovations support occupant safety, security, hygiene, and accessibility in building design. Participants will gain insight into common vulnerabilities of legacy systems, learn how to integrate biometric solutions into new and existing structures, and understand how these systems enhance building performance, user experience, and sustainability. Through expert perspectives and real-world examples, design professionals will be equipped to make informed decisions in access control planning.

In this course, we delve into the realm of paint products used to mitigate the damages caused by fires in the built environment. Our aim is to provide a revelatory assessment of these products, guiding participants through procedural recommendations to repair and restore both visible and integral fire damage. Throughout the session, we will analyze situation-specific considerations for water, oil, and shellac-based fire restoration paint products and cleansers. By the end of this course, participants will not only grasp the methodologies of fire restoration but also demonstrate a comprehensive understanding that allows for continuous building use without compromising the health and safety of occupants.

This course provides design professionals with a foundational understanding of building security through the lens of physical security, material science, and real-world applications. Participants will explore how bullet-resistant materials and forced-entry-resistant design strategies can be integrated into both new and existing structures without compromising aesthetics, functionality, or user experience. The course emphasizes how evolving threats, code requirements, product standards like UL 752, and collaboration with manufacturers all contribute to safer building environments. Attendees will gain actionable knowledge to design spaces that safeguard occupants while meeting both performance and design goals.

Stucco assemblies are a popular choice but require proper detailing to avoid problems that can arise from water infiltration. Join us in this one-hour course as we discuss the new IBC 2021 25.10.1 and 25.10.2 Water Resistive Barrier (WRB) and drainage mat requirement, including how to evaluate a project’s environment to ensure proper specification and installation as they relate to stucco assemblies. Participants will learn which materials and methods to use in order to properly incorporate drainage mats into a stucco assembly to improve building integrity and occupant health.

This course covers the essentials of commercial roof hatches, including key materials, hardware, and specification requirements. It explores roof access hatch applications for both personnel and equipment, emphasizing the importance of incorporating thermal breaks to enhance energy efficiency and prevent condensation. Considerations for roof hatches in extreme weather conditions are discussed, along with how these factors relate to building code certifications and standards. Additionally, the course reviews the basics of roof hatch installation, while highlighting the importance of fall protection in compliance with OSHA regulations and other code requirements.

This course covers the benefits and attributes of specialty steel door and frame assemblies. Learn benefits and attributes for acoustic, forced entry, bullet resistant, blast resistant, fire-rated, temperature rise, tornado, hurricane, lead lined, custom, wood grain, stainless steel and prefinished doors. In addition, we will look at some of the requirements for acoustic door STC ratings, BR (bullet resistant) and blast categories along with various testing procedures. Common uses for these doors as well relevant standards are described. Also included are important specifications for each door type and the corresponding door assemblies.

Join us as we discuss the innovative uses of sustainable wood products in modern architecture, with a particular focus on versatile applications in both exterior and interior settings. In this course, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits of utilizing abundant and sustainable wood resources, such as thermally modified spruce, pine, oak and ayous, which offer enhanced stability and longevity. We will cover advanced wood finishing techniques, including Shou Sugi Ban, brushing and thermal modification, that improve the aesthetic appeal and extend the lifespan of wood products. Throughout this course, participants will explore the principles of biophilic design, emphasizing how integrating natural elements into architectural spaces can significantly enhance the health, safety, and welfare of occupants. Participants will also learn about the importance of using low VOC stains to improve indoor air quality, the application of fire-resistant coatings for exterior wood products, and sustainable manufacturing practices that minimize waste and promote environmental stewardship. Through case studies and practical examples, participants will leave with a solid understanding of how to specify and utilize high-performance wood products in their projects, that achieve both aesthetic excellence and sustainability.

Outdoor living spaces have become an integral part of residential and commercial design, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. This course provides design professionals with essential project management strategies to navigate the complexities of outdoor living projects, from initial planning to final installation. Participants will explore key considerations such as balancing client expectations with budget constraints, addressing logistical challenges, and integrating sustainable, regionally appropriate materials. Additionally, the course will emphasize collaboration with industry professionals and trusted advisors to optimize project outcomes.