EDUCATION PROVIDER PROGRAM (EPP)

This course explores the evolving landscape of outdoor living design, focusing on material advancements, structural integrity, sustainability, and user experience. Participants will examine how innovations in material science, privacy solutions, smart technology, and low-maintenance strategies enhance outdoor spaces while safeguarding occupant comfort, safety, and environmental quality. Additionally, the course will address how post-pandemic lifestyle shifts and emerging trends influence residential and commercial outdoor environments. By integrating technical expertise with aesthetic considerations, design professionals will gain the knowledge necessary to create durable, functional, and sustainable outdoor spaces that prioritize occupant well-being.

This one-hour course examines the use of solid surfaces to help design professionals realize the versatility this modern, sleek product now offers. Applications of trend-setting solid surfaces are explored in a variety of applications including healthcare, commercial, retail, and educational industries. A comparison of other commonly used products is provided to re-affirm the varied uses of solid surfaces in a multitude of applications. These applications reveal the importance of low maintenance, durability and sustainability. As well, these solid surfaces have capabilities for flexible fabrication akin to cut wood without the hygienic worry. The course reminds design professionals that there is no need to sacrifice innovative designs when using a solid surface in any area for any user.

This course explores the critical but often overlooked relationship between water and energy consumption in the built environment, highlighting the environmental and economic impacts of inefficiencies in traditional hot water delivery systems. Attendees will gain foundational knowledge of hot water recirculation technologies, including key distinctions between traditional and on-demand systems, design considerations for new and retrofit projects, and performance optimization through smart technologies. Through a sustainability-focused lens, the course also addresses regulatory compliance, cost-benefit analysis, and occupant behavior, emphasizing how architects and engineers can play a leading role in water and energy conservation efforts. Real-world strategies and innovations will be presented to help professionals design and specify systems that enhance efficiency, occupant comfort, and environmental responsibility.

Analyze the different types of gypsum technologies in terms of composition, characteristics, and testing. Discover the benefits of impact resistant gypsum in terms of performance, application, and cost.

In this course, we explore sound transmission and acoustical requirements in buildings. Codes, standards, and design considerations are thoroughly reviewed. Acoustically enhanced gypsum board assemblies are evaluated as a solution for improving acoustics in multiple indoor environments.

This course will provide a brief overview of Low-Slope Roof Systems to provide the necessary background to discuss cover boards & thermal barriers.  The various cover board types and reasons for their use will be described. Each board type will be discussed along with their primary features, benefits & challenges. The long-term performance of all low-slope roof systems is impacted by a number of external factors such as weather events and roof system abuse (natural & man-made). Important roof component performance criteria will be discussed and conclusions drawn, in order to increase your knowledge surrounding cover board selection.

Following a case study format, selected project team members from the DPR Phoenix Regional Headquarters tell their stories through a series of interviews, info-graphics, and building video tours. The DPR Phoenix Regional Headquarters achieved LEED Platinum certification under the LEED NC 2009 rating system, and received one of the first Net-Zero Energy certifications from the International Living Future Institute. The course demonstrates the innovative strategies the team used to optimize the building’s energy performance in a hot arid climate, such as a 4-part integrated passive cooling. Experts show how using high volume, low capacity fans throughout the project help with the achievement of IEQ c2 (Increased ventilation) and with achieving thermal comfort for the occupants.

To optimize the design and performance of commercial water heater systems, professionals should understand the difference between standard and high efficiency gas water heaters. Join us in this one-hour course as we cover the benefits of high efficiency gas water heaters and how to easily convert from standard to high efficiency. Participants will also learn methods for estimating hot water demands, best plumbing and venting principles, and emerging technologies for water heaters.

Blueprints for Victory: Comprehensive Sports Facility Design is a dynamic and in-depth course crafted to empower architects with the knowledge and skills essential for excelling in the design of modern sports facilities. This course offers a thorough exploration of sports facility architecture, including building design principles, field configurations, equipment selection, spectator amenities, and emerging industry trends. Participants will gain valuable insights into creating versatile, sustainable, and aesthetically striking spaces that meet the needs of athletes, spectators, and communities alike. With a strong emphasis on innovation, safety, and accessibility, this course equips architects to design sports facilities that enhance performance, foster engagement, and leave lasting impressions, transforming visions into championship-worthy realities.

The walkthrough of a boiler and water heater retrofit is a vital step to assessing the existing conditions and determining what needs to be fixed to meet the client’s needs. Join us in this one-hour course as we discuss what to bring with you, what to document, and what questions to ask when performing a walkthrough. Participants will learn key questions to ask and documentations to make in regards to the water piping, venting, gas piping, and other factors to ensure a boiler and water heater retrofit is safe and code compliant.

When designing any guard rail, there are a variety options to choose from, including the type of framing, infill material, cable, glass, wood or metal designs. Today’s guard rail systems and solutions must provide strength, durability and design flexibility. They must be suited for different applications, interior or exterior use, commercial, industrial, and residential projects. This presentation will discuss the unique design requirements of railing using cable as the railing in-fill. We’ll review the proper type of cable, proper railing frame designs to work with tensioned cables, different cable mounting and tension fittings necessary for proper installation, and how to specify cable railing for your next project.

Commercial air to water heat pumps are the most efficient way to heat stored water. Join us in this one-hour course as we discuss the many benefits of commercial heat pump water heater split systems, such as increased sustainability and durability. Participants will be able to evaluate different heat pump systems and specify the best option for each application to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.

Imagine stepping out to enjoy outdoor living spaces made safe because of railings that protect and complement exterior design. Join us in this one-hour course as we discuss aluminum railings as they relate to aesthetic, strength and durability of materials and code compliance, load testing and sustainable solutions. Participants will be able to analyze the best possible uses and applications for structural aluminum railings in residential and commercial applications with an additional specialization in coastal settings.

In this one-hour course, participants will learn about the evolution of detention construction as well as different materials and approaches to constructing cells and other secure areas. The course will focus on advanced detention construction solutions using truss-reinforced steel panels with hollow metal doors, frames and windows. Participants will also learn about trends and requirements in contemporary detention design that help create a safe and secure prison.

This course will discuss different types of access ladders and stairs and the various applications in which they can be safely used. The designer will also learn about codes and minimum requirements necessary to adhere to standards both dimensionally and for fire ratings.