Investing in Knowledge: Partnering with Kirkwood for Hands-On Connector Training

At Fasteners Plus, we believe the best way to serve our customers is by staying sharp, curious, and deeply engaged with the tools and standards shaping the construction industry. That’s why we jumped at the opportunity to host a hands-on training session with Kirkwood Community College, welcoming one of their instructors, who also happens to be an active roofing safety supervisor, to lead the charge.

Bridging Education with Real-World Application

This wasn’t your average classroom session. The instructor brought a powerful mix of academic insight and on-the-job experience, sharing real-world perspectives on construction safety, wood connectors, and the all-important building codes that govern both.

A key message from the training? Inspectors can vary, but best practices shouldn’t. The codes and product specifications from trusted names like Simpson Strong-Tie exist to raise the bar, and help us all build smarter, safer, and to a consistent high standard.

A “Frankenstein” of Fasteners: Learning Through Building

To put theory into practice, we rolled up our sleeves and built what can only be described as a “Frankenstein” structure, part demonstration, part mad science.

We started by setting a J-bolt anchor into concrete, then layered on:

• A post base and column connector

• A mix of hurricane straps

• And finally, a joist hanger

The result was a gnarly-looking wooden column setup, but each element told a story. It wasn’t built for beauty. It was built to test, understand, and learn. And it did the job perfectly.

Nails vs. Screws vs. Bolts: Choosing the Right Connector

Another core discussion revolved around fastening methods, specifically, the pros and cons of nails, screws, and bolts in structural applications. Each has its place, and the wrong choice can spell failure.

The takeaway? Don’t guess. Always consult manufacturer specifications and code requirements to ensure structural integrity, safety, and compliance.

Why This Matters: People First, Always

This wasn’t just about hardware. It was about investing in people, the ones who pick, pack, sell, and support the products we offer. Whether a team member has two weeks on the job or two decades under their belt, training like this keeps our crew ahead of the curve and reinforces our commitment to industry leadership.

We’re proud to work with community institutions like Kirkwood. We’re even prouder of our team for diving into the nitty-gritty details that make construction safer and stronger for everyone.