Materials & Resources: Green Building Basics

Join GBA as we set the stage for Materials & Resources Week with an accessible primer on the essential concepts that shape today’s building materials landscape. This “back to basics” seminar is designed for both newcomers seeking a solid introduction and seasoned professionals looking to refresh their understanding of core principles. Attendees will gain a grounding in strategies for choosing and applying materials in ways that reduce environmental impact and explore practical approaches for stewarding responsible construction practices including product selection and waste reduction and diversion. We’ll provide a high-level overview of major materials concepts, fundamental terminology, key considerations, and the role materials play in performance and wellbeing. 

The session will wrap up with an open Q&A followed by a brief look-ahead highlighting the upcoming events included in Materials & Resources Week, that will expand on the topics introduced here. 

Whether you’re new to the field or simply want to sharpen your baseline knowledge, this session offers a valuable reset before we dig deeper into specialized material in the days to come. 

Meet the Speaker

Leslie Montgomery, LEED AP BD+C, Vice President of Education, Green Building Alliance

Leslie is responsible for developing GBA’s education and training. She conceptualizes different learning models while tracking the most relevant innovations in sustainable buildings. Leslie is a member of the Master Builders’ Association’s Green Builder’s Committee and served for six years of the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh, where she was co-chair of its Sustainable Construction Committee. Leslie holds a Masters of Science in Sustainable Systems from Slippery Rock University and a Bachelors of Science of in Integrated Marketing Communications from Winthrop University. 

More About Materials & Resources Week

Join GBA for a week-long focus on the materials, products, systems, and innovations that are shaping the built environment. Throughout Materials & Resources Week, participants will engage in expert-led deep dives, interactive sessions, and site- or product- focused learning opportunities that spotlight the lifecycle of building materials, from sourcing to performance, reuse, and impact. 

Discover more events happening this week by visiting the Materials & Resources Week Home Page.