Vancouver Island South presents an In-Person Luncheon hosted by the BC Wood Specialties Group

Part of the WoodTALKS seminar series
 

Join your architect colleagues in Victoria for a networking luncheon and accredited educational session presented by the BC Wood Specialties Group. The WoodTALKS program supports the architectural and development community in exploring innovative wood-based products and building systems.
 

Lunch will be provided.
 

This session will be presented by an industry professional from B.C.’s value-added wood sector and is eligible for continuing education credits.
 

RSVP below to reserve your spot — space is limited!
 

The Future of Wood and Innovations in Curtain Wall Systems
1 Learning Hour | AIBC 1 Core LU
 

Wood has been used in construction for centuries, valued for its beauty and workability. However, modern materials, historical limitations in size, durability, and performance have reduced its use in window and door systems. This seminar addresses these limitations and highlights innovations bringing wood back into relevance.
 

Case studies of hybrid curtain wall systems will be presented, focusing on advancements in B.C.’s wood-window industry. Discussion includes how hybrid systems meet Passivhaus and third-party thermal standards, gasket technology for water tightness, and the benefits of unitized curtain wall systems for efficiency on job sites.
 

Presented by: Jim Eisenhauer, Principal, Unison Windows and Doors

 

1 Learning Hour | AIBC 1 Core LU
 

As buildings are increasingly designed for environmental performance, occupant health, and well-being, there is a growing need for ventilation openings between enclosed spaces. These pathways, however, are notorious for transmitting sound. Designers also face challenges creating airflow pathways without the complexity of modifying ceilings and walls to accommodate ducting, vents, and grilles.
 

This presentation reviews the ventilation and acoustical challenges in creating comfortable interior environments, and explores the latest ventilated door solutions that address these issues.
 

Presented by: Vick Yau, Co-founder, VanAir Design
 

Learning Objectives
 

• Explore industry, environmental, and health influences motivating the increased use of ventilation openings between spaces.

• Compare common ventilation openings, analyze their requirements, and review their acoustic implications.

• Learn about integrally ventilated doors and how acoustic design elements contribute to attenuation.

• Identify key factors to consider when specifying ventilation openings.

 

-Headshot to go here-
 

Jim Eisenhauer
 

Jim Eisenhauer, Principal of Unison Windows and Doors, founded the company in 1978 in North Vancouver. Under his management and direction, Unison is recognized for its fine-quality manufacturing and performance. Jim credits his company’s success to the trust and respect he has established with his clientele and industry representatives. As such, one of his favourite aspects of a project is the satisfaction that comes from exceeding client expectations, developing long-term working relationships, and providing innovative designs and quality products on time and within budget. Being recognized in the industry as a leader, he educates the architectural industry through seminars and factory workshops. With a passion for design and product excellence, Jim continues to effectively shape and expand his vision for Unison Windows and Doors.
 

-Headshot to go here-
 

Vick Yau
 

Vick Yau, alongside his co-founder, developed a novel acoustic and ventilated door system that originated at the University of British Columbia. Today, that innovation has grown into a thriving business focused on bridging the gap between technical performance and architectural design. With deep expertise in ventilation and acoustic principles, Vick works closely with architects and specifiers to help them make informed, practical design choices. He also oversees all facets of the business — from sales and marketing to operations, accounting, and long-term strategy. From the classroom to the boardroom, Vick is an entrepreneur at heart. His work on the VanAir Door has earned multiple design awards and media coverage. He regularly delivers presentations, leads educational sessions, and speaks at industry events, sharing insights at the intersection of design, engineering, and business.
 

About BC Wood
 

The BC Wood Specialties Group is a not-for-profit trade association representing British Columbia’s value-added wood manufacturing industry. The BC Wood Lunch & Learn program focuses on increasing knowledge and experience related to designing and building with wood, with the goal of accelerating the adoption of innovative wood-based products and building systems, while maximizing the appropriate use of wood in design and construction.