Firefighter and inspirational speaker Richard Picciotto was an FDNY Battalion Commander in Manhattan on September 11, 2001. Following the terrorist attack, Picciotto rushed inside the World Trade Center to rescue those inside, but soon found himself trapped in the smoldering rubble of the North Tower after its collapse. Buried for more than four hours, he emerged and was the highest-ranking firefighter to survive the collapse.

“Chief Picciotto’s story resonated with our International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off Committee and we are sure attendees will be inspired by his story,” says event marketing manager Holly Biller.

Picciotto is also the author of “Last Man Down,” the story of his experience and his remarkable survival of being located within the stairwell between the sixth and seventh floors of the North Tower when it collapsed.

Everyone has had to weather personal struggles; a lesson about maintaining your tenacity and surviving applies to each and every attendee. Picciotto will bring those survival tactics to light.

In addition to the keynote address, the International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off will feature educational seminars, an exhibition area with suppliers and the attendee-favorite Architectural and Automotive Tint-Off™ competitions.

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off is the largest international event dedicated solely to the window film industry. Registration and competition details are available online at www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Contact event management at 540/720-5584 for more information or visit www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Once again HanitaTek Window Films is one of the Supporters of the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC). The event is set to be held this September 18-20 in Tampa, Fla., at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. The Exhibition/Extravaganza will be held September 18-20.

During the conference, attendees will be able to take part in educational seminars by industry leaders and expert speakers, network on the Exhibition/Extravaganza show floor with window film manufacturers and suppliers and view the Tint-Off™ competitions.

We spoke with Sarah Ortiz, business manager for HanitaTek.

Window Film magazine: Sarah, why did HanitaTek choose to sponsor the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC)?

Ortiz: The IWFC is a unique event in our industry in which we can all get together and learn from one another. There is no other event that draws as many industry professionals into one place, with education and networking being the focus.

Window Film magazine: Why is an event like the IWFC important to the film industry?

Ortiz: It is so important for our dealers to interact and learn from one another. Education on current trends is so valuable to make your business grow and thrive. The more we work together as an industry to be professional and cutting edge, the better the future is for our industry.

Window Film magazine: What can attendees expect to see from HanitaTek at the 2013 show?

Ortiz: HanitaTek is excited to show our new films at the show. Our E-lite 70 spectrally selective film, our XTRM exterior films offering up to a 15-year warranty and our Skylite film for both glass and poly glazing will be featured.

We also will showcase our energy-efficiency program, our suite of security solutions and our top-notch personnel.

Window Film magazine: What do you hope your dealers and distributors can obtain by attending an event like this?

Ortiz: I hope they can get the knowledge they need to continue an educated and professional front for our industry. This will help take our industry into the future.

Window Film magazine: Does HanitaTek have any advice for the 2013 Tint-Off™ Automotive and Architectural Division competitors?

Ortiz: The best advice is to have confidence in your work and not to be too psyched out by the event. Act as if this is a job for your best customer and compete against yourself, not the other competitors.

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ is co-sponsored by Window Film magazine and the International Window Film Association. Auto Glass Week™ also will be held concurrently. The event is managed by Window Film magazine.

HanitaTek is the North American distributor of Hanita Coatings SolarZone and SafetyZone, window films. With a focus on energy savings, they work hard to partner with their customers to provide solar and safety solutions for their client base.

To register or for more information, visit the official event website, www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Once again 3M is one of the Supporters of the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC). The event is set to be held this September 18-20 in Tampa, Fla., at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. The Exhibition/Extravaganza will be held September 18-20.

During the conference, attendees will be able to take part in educational seminars by industry leaders and expert speakers, network on the Exhibition/Extravaganza show floor with window film manufacturers and suppliers and view the Tint-Off™ competitions.

We spoke with John Price, marketing communications supervisor for 3M.

Window Film magazine: John, why did 3M choose to sponsor the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC)?

Price: As a leading industry innovator, 3M understands firsthand the imperatives of not only keeping up with industry trends, but leading them. This means making a continuous effort to foster curiosity, evolve automotive applications and expand the capabilities of our employees, distributors and technicians. We are proud to support the IWFC in their similar efforts to educate those technicians, company owners, managers and suppliers who participate in the event and equip them with the latest tools and knowledge to stay at the cutting edge of their craft.

Window Film magazine: Why is an event like the IWFC important to the film industry?

Price: An event like the IWFC is important because it gives professionals in the industry a chance to compete and learn from one another. The unique trade and peer-to-peer education is unrivaled when it comes to swapping techniques. It’s also useful for participants to discuss consumer feedback together because it helps identify developing needs in the marketplace which can ultimately be explored and addressed by companies like 3M and those others in attendance.

Window Film magazine: What can attendees expect to see from 3M at the 2013 show?

Price: 3M is very excited to display its new Scotchshield Automotive Security Film which provides a powerful deterrent to smash-and-grab theft. Skilled car thieves can require as few as three seconds to break into a car. The new 3M Scotchshield Automotive Security Films are designed to keep glass in place upon breakage and have undergone rigorous testing to confirm that they will hold windows together and slow down a thief attempting to enter a vehicle. Overall, this new film is a great addition to our automotive window film line, offering customers increased theft and damage protection in addition to benefits like solar heat rejection.

Window Film magazine: What do you hope your dealers and distributors can obtain by attending an event like this?

Price: The IWFC is a great opportunity for dealers and distributors to gain a better understanding of the state of the industry. What are the latest trends? Where is the industry heading? What’s the next big breakthrough coming down the pipe? By staying in the know and on top of their game, they can continue to have a direct hand in shaping the future of the industry, growing their business and helping keep window film products top of mind for consumers.

Window Film magazine: Does 3M have any advice for the 2013 Tint-Off™ Automotive and Architectural Division competitors?

Price: Yes! Practice, relax and have fun. You can learn a great deal from these competitions, even just by watching others, so it’s important to take it all in and enjoy the experience.

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ is co-sponsored by Window Film magazine and the International Window Film Association. Auto Glass Week™ also will be held concurrently. The event is managed by Window Film magazine.

3M’s Renewable Energy Division provides window films for residential, commercial, government and automotive use serving customers all over the world.

To register or for more information, visit the official event website, www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

I’m working, don’t get me wrong, but it’s hard to consider it “work” when you’re staying at a four-star hotel near the beach. As an aside, there is a sign posted in the lobby that you aren’t allowed to take photos or ask for autographs of any guests. This of course means I’ve been on celeb watch, with my camera and notepad handy. Just in case you’re worried I’m enjoying myself a little too much, here’s what I’ve been up to this week.

After flying in Monday to attend the National Fenestration Rating Council’s (NFRC) 2013 Spring Committee Meeting, I toured the first net-zero building in St. Petersburg and stopped by the Madico Window Films plant to catch up with everyone and take a tour.

Fun side note, Madico played a large role in helping reduce the energy expenditures of the net-zero building. Angie Leonetti, marketing manager, even shared a few exciting updates. The company was filmed for an upcoming episode of TLC’s How It’s Made (the air date hasn’t been announced) and even has plans to assist with the construction of St. Petersburg’s first area net-zero residence. I’ll have more information on both of those as soon as there are more details.

Tuesday, I attended another day of NFRC meetings where members discussed U-factor and Lisa Winkler of Eastman’s Performance Films division led the discussion about solar heat gain codes. I was even able to grab dinner with my grandparents who live in the area (such a cliché, right? My grandparents live in Florida).

After the board meeting for NFRC wraps up Wednesday I’m planning to see the sights! I’m spending my entire afternoon checking out the Tampa area just so I can make sure you guys have plenty of fun things to do while you’re in town for this year’s International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC). It’s a hard life.

For my final day in Florida, Thursday, I’m heading down to Sarasota to see AntiFog Systems and Accent Distributing to get an update on the state of the industry in Bay-area Florida.

After spending a few days here I can’t wait to spend a few more with all of you at this year’s IWFC. It’s been a real stress to devote almost a whole week to researching the area for all of you, but I guess someone has to do it.

Once again Johnson Window Films is one of the Supporters of the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC). The event is set to be held this September 18-20 in Tampa, Fla., at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. The Exhibition/Extravaganza will be held September 18-20.

During the conference, attendees will be able to take part in educational seminars by industry leaders and expert speakers, network on the Exhibition/Extravaganza show floor with window film manufacturers and suppliers and view the Tint-Off™ competitions.

We spoke with Denise Beck, marketing director for Johnson Window Films.

Window Film magazine: Denise, why did Johnson Window Films choose to sponsor the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC)?

Beck: As a founding member of the International Window Film Association (IWFA), we believe in the value of education for both industry professionals and consumers alike.

Window Film magazine: Why is an event like the IWFC important to the film industry?

Beck: It is a great opportunity to see the latest film technology in use and be able to interact in person with dealers and industry professionals.

Window Film magazine: What can attendees expect to see from Johnson Window Films at the 2013 show?

Beck: Attendees can expect to see a comprehensive look at our extensive line of films for automotive, residential, commercial and protective applications as well as receive help and advice on how to grow a window film business using our detailed sales materials.

Window Film magazine: What do you hope your dealers and distributors can obtain by attending an event like this?

Beck: We hope they are able to gather real solutions to their questions and concerns.

Window Film magazine: Does Johnson Window Films have any advice for the 2013 Tint-Off™ Automotive and Architectural Division competitors?

Beck: Practice, practice, practice and request Johnson Window Films to use in the IWFC competition.

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ is co-sponsored by Window Film magazine and the International Window Film Association. Auto Glass Week™ also will be held concurrently. The event is managed by Window Film magazine.

Located in Southern California for more than 35 years, Johnson Window Films’ family-owned and -operated business provides solar control and protective window film products throughout the world.

To register or for more information, visit the official event website, www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Madico Window Films is once again one of our Supporters of the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC). The event is set to be held this September 18-20 in Tampa, Fla., at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. The Exhibition/Extravaganza will be held September 18-20.

During the conference, attendees will be able to take part in educational seminars by industry leaders and expert speakers, network on the Exhibition/Extravaganza show floor with window film manufacturers and suppliers and view the Tint-Off™ competitions.

Window Film magazine: We are speaking with Angie Leonetti, marketing and customer relations manager of Madico Window Films. Angie, why did Madico Window Films choose to sponsor the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC)?
Leonetti: Madico Window Films chose to sponsor the 2013 IWFC and Tint-Off because we recognize the importance of this industry-specific event. The IWFC is the only event that focuses solely on window film and thus presents unique learning and networking opportunities for our customer base.

Window Film magazine: Why is an event like the IWFC important to the film industry?
Leonetti: An event such as the IWFC is important to the film industry because it brings together manufacturers, distributors and dealers in one convenient location. By bringing together industry leaders, distributors and dealers we have the opportunity to further strengthen our business as a whole. Together, we can enact the changes we want to see across the window film industry.

Window Film magazine: What can attendees expect to see from Madico Window Films at the 2013 show?
Leonetti: We will be showcasing our full line of Madico and Sun-Gard automotive and flat glass films. We are also looking forward to meeting with prospective dealers who are interested in our new Sunscape Designer Film program. In addition, we’ll be hosting a presentation on installation techniques and specific tools geared toward safety/security film products and improving flat glass installation productivity.

Window Film magazine: What do you hope your dealers and distributors can obtain by attending an event like this?
Leonetti: Our hope is that our dealers and distributors are able to take away some newly gained product or industry knowledge from the show. Between the manufacturers’ exhibits and educational sessions there is an abundance of valuable information available at their fingertips.  This event is also a great opportunity to network and learn from fellow dealers. Often dealers can learn the most from their peers because they are able to exchange real-life tricks of the trade with one another.

Window Film magazine: Does Madico Window Films have any advice for the 2013 Tint-Off™ Automotive and Architectural Division competitors?
Leonetti: We encourage all of the competitors to practice ahead of time. Some folks can get nervous in front of a crowd and with the clock running. Ask a few friends to help you mimic the competition by watching as you tint and run a stop watch to give you a better feel for the time limit. Most of all we want everyone to do their best and have a good time! The Tint-Offs are always exciting events that we enjoy being able to watch while at the show. A little healthy competition is always fun at industry events such as these!

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ is co-sponsored by Window Film magazine and the International Window Film Association. Auto Glass Week™ also will be held concurrently. The event is managed by Window Film magazine.

Madico Window Films is headquartered in St. Petersburg, Fla., and develops, manufactures and markets technologically advanced laminates. They have been successfully doing so for more than a century. With an unrivaled commitment to quality of design, Madico continues to pioneer industry-first products and processes with a focus on solar control window films for vehicles, homes and commercial property.

To register or for more information, visit the official event website, www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Our host hotel, the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina, is offering IWFC attendees discounted room rates available on a first-come, first-served basis. The attendee rate is $129 USD per night, plus tax for single room, double occupancy and the room block is now open.

IWFC will be held at the Tampa Convention Center, just steps from the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. Auto Glass Week™ will once again be held concurrently.

Visit www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc and select the hotel tab to book your reservation online or call 888/789-3090.

For those who prefer the phone, you must reference the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marine and code AGWF13 to access the discounted room block ending August 27, 2013.

For suites, meeting rooms or other premium rooms, please contact Holly Biller at 540/602-3251, or by email at hbiller@glass.com.

For more information about IWFC, please visit us online at www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

“The IWFA believes that, by working with a partner/co-sponsor such as Window Film magazine, and by including as much of our window film industry as we can, the IWFC event will be the largest and best gathering that will further our goals of bringing value to the window film industry. This includes manufacturers and distributors, in general, and window film dealers in particular,” says Jack Mundy, chair of the IWFA Members Action Committee.

“We look forward to working with members of the IWFA once again for the upcoming event,” says Debra Levy, publisher of Window Film magazine. “We’re expanding the show and hope every window film manufacturer, supplier and retailer can join us.”

The IWFC will be held at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina in Tampa, Fla., September 18-20. Auto Glass Week™ will also be held concurrently. Attendees can expect to see educational seminars, exhibits and networking in addition to the Tint-Off competitions.

Attending the IWFC provided me the chance to meet some of you as well as learn about the trade. Watching you all in action was such a unique experience.

As I gear up for my first SEMA Show, I’m excited to see not only who, but what will be there. One of my favorite experiences from IWFC was installing a clear PPF bra on a BMW hood at one of the vendor booths. I hope there are more experiences like this at SEMA.

When considering the differences between IWFC to SEMA, I wondered if all of you have a type of show that you prefer more: automotive or architectural? One question I keep coming back to is: what do you guys want to see at these shows? When I report on the event, what kind of coverage are you hoping to see? Be sure to answer today’s poll about what you most look forward to seeing at trade shows.

While I continue to learn about the window film industry, I invite you to share your answers with me. If you ever have any questions or comments about something that has been covered in either the newsletter or the magazine please feel free to email me at cneeley@glass.com. I enjoy reading your comments and learning about your perspectives.

Check out today’s poll and let Window Film magazine know what you most look forward to seeing at trade shows.

“We heartily invite everyone in the auto glass and window film industries to attend,” says Ally Curran, event coordinator of the IWFC. “Tampa will have something for everyone and I hope those who were unable to make it to Louisville last week can join us next year in Tampa.”

The Tint-Off™ competitions will return in 2013. The event will once again be managed and sponsored by Window Film magazine.

Registration to attend, as well as compete, and the hotel room block will open soon. Stay tuned to www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc for the latest information as it becomes available.