When it comes to industry leadership, The International Mass Timber Conference isn’t just building the future—it’s setting the standard for safety. As one of the fastest-growing industrial shows in the world, the Mass Timber Conference has seen tremendous year-over-year growth and retention. In 2024, the conference further demonstrated its commitment to innovation and worker protection by equipping event attendees with custom-printed H2 Safety Helmets from Defender Safety. This bold move goes beyond compliance; it showcases the event’s dedication to leading by example and influencing the industry to embrace the shift from traditional hard hats to advanced safety helmets.
Safety as a Marketing Tool
In a move that underscored both their focus on safety and their brand visibility, the Mass Timber Conference provided all attendees with safety helmets featuring the conference logo and those of its event co-producer and partner, WoodWorks-Wood Product Council. These helmets, which were worn during the event’s building & manufacturing tours, not only protected guests but also served as a powerful branding tool. By giving attendees something both practical and impactful, the conference and its sponsors showed how safety equipment can serve a dual purpose: keeping people safe while promoting their brands in a memorable and tangible way.
The Collaboration Behind Safer Solutions
This deal didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of months of collaboration between the International Mass Timber Conference and Defender Safety, driven by key stakeholders from both sides. Our VP of Sales, Cole Bernstein, worked closely with the event’s Director of Sales, Melissa Sklenar, and its President/CEO, Craig Rawlings, to bring this vision to life. Initially, the plan was to purchase the more cost-efficient H1 helmets, but after numerous discussions and feedback, the decision was made to upgrade to the H2 Safety Helmets. Although budget constraints were a concern, Craig Rawlings found a way to make the deal possible by securing additional support from WoodWorks, ensuring that attendees received the best protection available. This collaboration showcases the importance of strong partnerships in achieving safety goals and making industry-leading equipment accessible.
Investing in Innovation
The switch from H1 to H2 helmets wasn’t just about aesthetics or brand promotion—it was about prioritizing safety in the best possible way. The H2 Safety Helmet represents the latest innovation in head protection, designed for maximum durability and comfort. As the market shifts away from traditional hard hats, the conference has positioned itself at the forefront of this movement by providing attendees with the highest standard of protection. This investment reflects their commitment to innovation, safety, and the well-being of their community, proving that leading companies don’t just build—they protect.
Leading the Industry
By making this investment in better safety equipment, the International Mass Timber Conference is sending a message to the entire industry: safety should never be an afterthought. Their leadership and willingness to invest in the best protection for their guests show that they are not just participants but pioneers in promoting a culture of safety. As more companies follow their lead, the adoption of advanced safety helmets like the H2 will likely become the norm across the industrial sector, raising safety standards for all.
