At Integrity Fencing Company, continuing education isn’t optional, it’s part of who we are. Recently, members of our team attended AFA University, a nationally recognized training program hosted by the American Fence Association (AFA), to further their professional development and strengthen the expertise we bring to every project.
This year, Evelyn Meza (Operations Manager) and Briana Brito (Sales Consultant) attended specialized AFA University schools, while Rodney Kellogg (Area Manager) also participated in advanced training and certification.
Why Integrity Invests in AFA University
According to Owner Shawn Beard, the decision to send team members to AFA University is intentional and strategic.
“We believe in continuing education in our industry, and AFA is our source to do that. They are the industry leader when it comes to fencing.”
Shawn also emphasizes that AFA events go beyond classroom learning.
“We believe in relationships. At AFA events, we meet other professionals and get to know associates throughout the industry.”
Integrity’s leadership regularly attends FenceTech, the AFA’s annual conference, combining education with hands-on exposure to new products, standards, and best practices. Multiple members of Integrity’s management team have earned certifications through AFA programs, including Gate Automation & Design School, Operations Manager School and Sales Training School.
“The more industry knowledge we gain, the better we become as a team. That knowledge spills directly into how we serve and educate our customers.”
AFA University: Operations Manager School
As Operations Manager, Evelyn Meza oversees the coordination that keeps projects moving—often while navigating Colorado’s unpredictable weather.
“The hardest part of my job is when Colorado’s weather creates unexpected shifts and rescheduling begins to happen.”
Attending AFA University was Evelyn’s first industry-wide training experience and her first time traveling for professional education.
“At first it was nerve-wracking not knowing what to expect, but once everything got going, it became a really great experience.”
She found value not only in the coursework, but in connecting with peers facing similar operational challenges.
“Hearing how others handle the same situations opened my mind and gave me new ideas and perspectives.”
A Meaningful Certification
Evelyn earned her Operations Manager Certification, a milestone that reflects her growth within the company.
“I had never done fencing before joining Integrity. Growing from Front Desk to Operations Manager feels amazing. This is more than a job—it’s a career.”
To maintain her certification, Evelyn will continue taking AFA courses over the next three years and attend ongoing industry events.
Applying What She Learned
Since returning, Evelyn has already implemented improvements, including:
- Morning operations meetings before crews head out
- Stronger internal communication systems
- Clearer procedures with built-in checks and backup plans
AFA University: Sales Training University
Briana works directly with customers, helping them navigate fence design, materials, and project planning while also bidding commercial projects.
“The hardest part is presenting information in a way that isn’t overwhelming, while still fitting the customer’s needs.”
A Collaborative Learning Environment
Initially intimidated by the experience, Briana quickly found AFA University to be welcoming and collaborative.
“It was a space to learn, discuss, and meet people who face the same challenges—without feeling like competitors.”
Sales Training Certification & Customer Trust
Briana earned her Sales Training Certificate, reinforcing Integrity’s commitment to professionalism.
“In a world where contractors aren’t always trusted, it’s powerful knowing we’re choosing to make a difference through better communication and higher standards.”
Lessons in Action
Key takeaways Briana now applies daily include:
- Better preparation around HOA requirements and site conditions
- Tailoring every fence project—no assumptions
- Following up with customers for feedback during and after projects
“When every department brings their specialty together, we know we’re delivering our best work.”
A Commitment That Benefits Our Customers
Integrity primarily sends members of its management and leadership team to AFA University because the impact reaches every part of the business—from sales and operations to installation and customer experience.
The American Fence Association is widely regarded as the authority on industry standards and best practices, and Integrity proudly aligns with those guidelines.
“AFA’s reputation is strong. Many professionals defer to them for standards, and we feel their training is essential to our growth.”
Shawn Beard, Owner
Looking Ahead
We’re proud of Evelyn, Briana, and Rodney for representing Integrity Fencing Company and bringing valuable knowledge back to our team. Their training directly strengthens the service, communication, and craftsmanship our customers rely on.
At Integrity, investing in our people means investing in better outcomes—for our team, our company, and every customer we serve.