Build your skills at International Code Council annual conference

A variety of education programs highlight the International Code Council Annual Conference Sept. 26-29 in Salt Lake City. The 2004 Codes Forum—An Education Conference features more than 35 education sessions, showcases the latest building and construction products and services, and provides attendees with networking opportunities.

"Whether you are a building safety or fire prevention official in government or a contractor, engineer, architect or other construction industry professional, participating in continuing education will help you enhance building safety in your community," said International Code Council Chief Executive Officer James Lee Witt. "The conference's comprehensive education program allows participants to develop their code knowledge while earning CEUs and LUs."

The International Code Council is offering sessions in two tracks, education and professional interest. Education sessions scheduled during the conference include "Making Our Hometowns Safe," "Moisture Resistance is Mold Resistance," "WFCM Workshop: Design of Wood Frame Buildings for High Wind, Snow and Seismic Loadings," "Accessibility and Usability" and "Electrical Fires: Causes and Prevention."

Professional interest sessions identify opportunities and resources that help participants be more attentive to changes in the code enforcement industry and progress in their careers. These sessions do not offer continuing education units, but rather explore methods of enhancing your organizational efforts and improving the effectiveness of your code enforcement staff. Professional interest sessions include "Accreditation of Building Departments," "Chapter Leadership Program" and "The International Forum."

Several Utah chapters of the International Code Council are sponsoring pre-conference activities. They include an evening on Antelope Island, a Mount Timpanogus hike, a motorcycle ride, a train ride through Provo Canyon and a fly fishing excursion.

The International Code Council Expo also will feature exhibitors displaying construction industry-related products and services designed to improve the built environment. Exhibitors represent manufacturers, service companies, government agencies and trade associations. To participate as an exhibitor or sponsor, call 1-888-ICC-SAFE, ext. 5264 or click here.

For registration forms and hotel information for the International Code Council Annual Conference, click here. You also can contact the International Code Council at 1-888-ICC-SAFE, ext. 4229.

The International Code Council will continue its community outreach efforts by sponsoring an auction during the Annual Conference. The event, scheduled for Sept. 29, will benefit ASSIST. ASSIST, a Salt Lake City-area charity, is a nonprofit Community Design Center that provides architectural design, community planning and development assistance to nonprofit and community groups. The organization also offers housing and accessibility design assistance to low income households or individuals with disabilities.

The International Code Council, a membership organization dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.