2026 is the Year of Resilience 

Change has never been a stranger to the building performance industry. Policy shifts. Market cycles. Workforce challenges. Evolving technologies. Yet year after year, this industry continues to move forward by adapting, innovating, and delivering meaningful impact in the homes and communities we serve. 

As we look ahead to 2026, one word stands out: resilience. 

Resilience is not just about enduring uncertainty. It is about growing stronger through it. It is about maintaining momentum even when the path forward is not perfectly clear. It is also about ensuring that, no matter what changes around us, the work of improving America’s homes continues. 

Uncertainty remains, but the work continues. At both the federal and state levels, uncertainty is likely to persist into 2026. Programs may evolve, funding structures may shift, and priorities may change. However, energy efficiency has historically received bipartisan support, and BPA intends to continue advocating for the policies and programs that will help us grow.   

Homes still need to be safe, comfortable, healthy, and efficient. Communities still need skilled professionals to do this work. Small businesses, which remain the backbone of our industry, will continue to drive growth and innovation. These are jobs done by our neighbors, in our communities, and they cannot be outsourced or offshored. 

BPA remains committed to supporting contractors, program administrators, and partners through these transitions. Whether through guidance on program implementation, clear communication around changes, or advocacy to ensure the industry’s voice is heard, BPA will continue to support the businesses and professionals doing this critical work. 

One of the most significant shifts taking place is the role technology plays in business growth and scalability. What was once considered optional has become essential. From artificial intelligence tools that support administration and operations to improved data management, customer engagement platforms, and technical assistance resources, technology is helping contractors work more efficiently. 

Small businesses are becoming increasingly sophisticated in how they leverage these tools to streamline operations, improve training, and better serve homeowners. This shift is not about replacing people. It is about equipping the workforce with tools that allow them to focus on delivering high quality work in the field. 

Workforce development continues to sit at the center of everything BPA does. Demand for energy efficiency upgrades will continue to grow, and meeting that demand requires a skilled and well-trained workforce. 

While hiring challenges persist for nearly 9 in 10 surveyed companies, our recent Energy Efficiency Jobs in America report shows encouraging signs. There are nearly 2.4 million American workers designing, manufacturing, and installing energy savings products and technologies across 50 states. Energy efficiency is growing fast with small businesses dominating the landscape. The industry continues to be a good-paying job creation powerhouse. 

BPA’s priority is clear. We are focused on helping equip the industry’s workforce by providing valuable tools, growth opportunities, and accessible training options that allow businesses and workers to succeed. 

To that end, we worked to move apprenticeships from vision to reality over the past year. With National Guideline Standards now approved, BPA’s Energy Specialist and Home Performance Laborer Apprenticeships are moving from concept to implementation. One of the most important developments heading into 2026 is their continued advancement within the building performance industry. As a United States Department of Labor designated apprenticeship sponsor, BPA is shifting into active deployment of these programs in key states. 

These apprenticeships provide a practical solution to workforce challenges by meeting industry demand while creating clear pathways to long-term employment. They combine hands on learning, technical instruction, and nationally recognized credentials that benefit employers, workers, and communities. Apprenticeships are not only a workforce strategy. They are an investment in industry stability and sustained growth. 

Another driver going into this year is one that continually anchors us: the ability to come together face-to-face. While technology connects us in new ways, there is no substitute for gathering in person. This year, our National Home Performance Conference & Trade Show will celebrate its 40th anniversary. Since its inception, this conference has been dedicated to bridging the gap between building science and practical weatherization applications. 

This milestone year marks a moment of honor for the organization’s legacy and its connection to the Weatherization Assistance Program, while also positioning the event as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and collaboration. For four decades, our national conference has been the place where contractors, weatherization professionals, healthy homes experts, trainers, program administrators, and others in residential energy efficiency come together to learn, collaborate, and move the industry forward.  

BPA will continue to prioritize opportunities for education, collaboration, and connection through in-person events. Along with our national conference, BPA will host regional conferences in Saratoga Springs, New York in May and in a soon-to-be-announced new and exciting location. These events will focus on the specific housing stock, climate conditions, policy environments, and workforce challenges unique to each region. They will also ensure that innovation and best practices reach the whole-home contractors who compete on performance, quality, and customer outcomes. 

Moving forward together requires shared knowledge, strong partnerships, and a commitment to progress, even in uncertain times. As we move into 2026, BPA remains focused on empowering small businesses, strengthening the workforce, expanding apprenticeship opportunities, embracing technology, and creating spaces for the industry to come together. 

The challenges ahead are real, and so is the opportunity. Together, we will continue to ensure that all American homes are safe, efficient, and comfortable. 

Steve Skodak, BPA CEO