Gate Automation Designer School(GADS) On The Road- Minneapolis, MN

Classes will take place at the Country Inn & Suites/Park Plaza at Mall of America Hotel. 
Class will begin at 8:00 AM on Wednesday morning and run through noon on Thursday.

Gate Automation Design School

The American Fence Association advocates for the recognition of professionalism in the automated vehicular gate industry and established this school in 2013 to elevate knowledge and standards thru training and education. Most people engaged in the automated gate industry on a full-time basis would agree that they should be viewed as professionals. However, it is just as important that end-users and the public share in that view.  

Professionals bring additional qualities to the industry; quality customer relations, safe work practices, leadership among colleagues, communication skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the industry and the organizations that support it. This school draws students from all parts of the country who seek education and skills from some of the most experiences gate operator system designers in the country.

Our motto, “Professionalism through Education”.

Why is this certification worth your time and energy?

Knowledge of design concepts and understanding of safety and code issues to protect both users and installers is vital for professional Gate Automation Designers. The finest Certified Gate Automation Technician cannot install a system that is safe, code compliant and meets the owner’s needs, if that system is not properly designed and specified. It is the purpose of this school to advance the understanding of those designing systems beyond the pure technical knowledge of the industry and help to develop a comprehensive view of the abilities of equipment and configurations possible to meet a user’s needs.

Anyone who designs automated vehicular gates is encouraged to attend this two-day school.  This program is a combination of lecture, presentations and hands on gate system layout activities covering the following concepts and topics:

• UL 325 for automated gate systems
• ASTM F2200 and an Introduction to M.U.T.C.D. – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
• Types of Gates
• Types of Gate Operators
• Introduction to Electrical Wiring
• Access Control Devices
• Vehicular Detection Systems
• Power Failure Options
• High Security Applications
• Site Considerations

This two-day course can also serve as an introduction to the gate automation industry. Individuals and companies considering expanding their business into gate automation can get a thorough overview of both system design and standards from this class. There is a certification exam offered after the classroom instruction. Successful certification will show that you and your company are professionals in our industry, however, participation in the certification exam is not required.

Certification testing will take place on Thursday afternoon from 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM.  All certification testing is optional and requires a separate application and fee.  

Hotel Information

Hotel rooms are avalable at the rate of $119 for Wed and Thursday nights (single/double occupancy) plus room tax.  The hotel reservation cut off date is November 22nd to be guaranteed the group rate.  Click on this link to make your hotel reservation. Rooms are limited.  Be sure to book your room early.