The next generation of leaders in the wall and ceiling industry recently got an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look inside the NGC Testing Services laboratory.
The Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI) hosted 14 emerging professionals, representing contractors, manufacturers, and suppliers from across the country, for an immersive educational experience designed to expand their understanding of the industry beyond their day-to-day roles.
Our team was proud to play a part in advancing education, innovation, and transparency through guided lab tours and testing demonstrations. As part of this unique program, members of the AWCI Emerging Leaders Classes even witnessed a live fire test, a rare, hands-on opportunity to see building science in action.
About the AWCI Emerging Leaders Program
The Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry connects professionals across every corner of the trade, representing more than 2,400 members nationwide.
Through its Emerging Leaders program, AWCI provides the next generation of contractors, suppliers, and manufacturers an opportunity to explore key areas of the industry they might not encounter in their daily work, such as safety testing, acoustics, and product performance evaluation.
Participants in this program deepen their understanding of the industry, strengthen leadership skills, and gain firsthand exposure to the critical testing and standards that define modern construction.
The Visit to NGC Testing Services
As part of the Emerging Leaders program, 12 members of AWCI’s Class of 2026 and two from the Class of 2025 visited NGC Testing Services’ laboratory in Buffalo, NY, on August 21, 2025. Joining them were the AWCI President and Director of Education & Member Services.
For the group, it was a truly unique experience. Our facility and wide range of testing capabilities offered an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the science driving product performance, safety, and innovation across the wall and ceiling industries, an opportunity few outside the lab ever get to see.
Inside the Tour
General Manager Mike Rizzo led the group through an exciting, in-depth tour of the NGC Testing Services facility. Attendees got a rare, firsthand look at the operations of a fully accredited laboratory, exploring acoustical testing chambers, fire testing furnaces, and structural testing areas.
The highlight of the visit was witnessing a live ASTM E119 floor-ceiling fire test, a truly exceptional opportunity for those outside the testing environment.
The tour offered a powerful, hands-on perspective on how safety, compliance, and performance testing directly influence the products and practices shaping the wall and ceiling industries.
Feedback from Attendees
For many in the group, this was their first time seeing acoustical, fire, or structural testing up close. The visit deepened their appreciation for how testing underpins safety, quality, and innovation in their daily work.
As the next generation of industry leaders, these participants will carry forward insights that will shape future specifications, product standards, and best practices, strengthening the industry from the ground up.
Beyond the Lab
The excitement didn’t stop at the lab. Attendees enjoyed a Buffalo-themed lunch on-site before heading out to explore more of what the city has to offer.
The group also toured the Buffalo Bills’ new Highmark Stadium, still under construction and set to open in 2026, providing a firsthand look at real-world applications of cutting-edge building practices.
From hands-on testing to local flavors and behind-the-scenes stadium insights, the day was as memorable as it was educational … hopefully winning over a few new Bills fans along the way!
Why NGC Testing Services Supports Industry Education
Collaboration with organizations like AWCI is central to the NGC Testing Services mission.
We are committed to advancing industry knowledge, and tours like this provide an invaluable educational experience for professionals across the wall and ceiling industry. They highlight how our dedication to accuracy, reliability, and transparency helps raise safety and performance standards for everyone.
If the experience of AWCI’s Emerging Leaders resonates with you, we invite you to connect with our team for similar opportunities. Whether you’re part of an industry group, a manufacturer, or an educational partner, NGC Testing Services offers insights and experiences designed to inspire and inform.
Ready to Learn More?
The tour of our facilities provided AWCI’s Emerging Leaders with a memorable, hands-on experience, showcasing the testing that underpins safer, higher-performing wall and ceiling systems. It gave these future industry leaders a firsthand look at what it takes to advance standards and drive innovation forward.
Testing plays a vital role in the wall and ceiling industry, and reliable, accredited results are the foundation for supporting innovation and ensuring product performance.
Want to learn how our comprehensive testing services can benefit your products and your business? Contact the NGC Testing Services team today to get started.
