DHI Canada values the time and commitment that our students dedicate to advancing their learning and to earn the important industry credentials.
We are proud to publicly recognize our student's efforts shocase all their efforts!
Steve Daunheimer, DHT, DHC, CFDAI
Sales Manager, Knells Door & Hardware
Let us know which credentials you have earned and when you earned them, and which credentials you hope to earn in the future.
I have earned my DHT, DHC and CFDAI credentials, all in the last year.
How many years have you been in the industry and can you share some of your past experiences?
I've been in the door hardware industry for quite some time! Part time starting in 1984, and full time since 1987!
The industry is ever changing, ever challenging and always moving! I have been a member of DHI throughout my career, and actively involved with the Ontario DHI Chapter for a number of years, the last 7 years as the Ontario Chapter President.
How long have you been participating in DHI Canada’s education program and which courses have you taken?
My DHI journey started in September 1990, taking the entry level course AH-1 at the infamous Geneva Park conference centre. Since that first course, I have participated in almost every iteration of each and every course and module available, listed below:
- AH1 - Geneva Park - September 1990
- AH2 - Geneva Park - September 1993
- AH3 - Geneva Park - October 1997
- COR113 - Architectural Hardware and Applications
- COR120 - Door and Frame Applications
- COR140 - Using Codes and Standards
- COR133 - Electrified Architectural Hardware
- COR133A - Electrified Architectural Hardware
- COR133B - Electrified Architectural Hardware
- COR103 - Understanding and Using Construction Documents
- COR125 - Takeoff and Estimating
- AHC205 - Detailing Hardware
- AHC207 - Advanced Detailing Hardware
- COR160 - Material Purchasing Concepts
- COR147 - Introduction to Specification Writing
- COR153 - Installation Coordination & Project Management
- AHC215 - Writing Hardware Specifications
- AHC220 - AHC Exam Prep
- DAI600 - Canadian Fire Door Assembly Inspector Credential obtained October 2022
- DHT Credential - Obtained November 2022
- DHC Credential - Obtained November 2022
Have you participated in both our national schools and our regional schools?
I've attended both regional and national schools several times over the years. DHI Education has continued to evolve and improve over the years.
How has participation in our education programs contributed to your professional development and your career?
In my opinion, DHI Education programs are a key component to success in this industry - and it's not just about the facts and details! Many of the connections I've made through DHI events have become new friends and/or new business partners.
What impacts have our instructors had in mentoring you and engaging you in the industry?
I have always enjoyed meeting new instructors & gaining their insights! I've had the pleasure of being taught by some industry 'giants' over the years, and seeing their passion and enthusiasm for DHI has certainly rubbed off on me, that I'm now In a position to become an instructor myself.
In your opinion, what is the most important benefit of DHI Canada’s education program?
DHI Canada's education programs are an absolute MUST for anyone in the architectural openings business in my opinion. Learning from industry leaders from different areas of the business (manufacturers, contract hardware distributors, sales agents etc) will bring a breadth of knowledge that you can't achieve with in house training. Different experiences from a different side of the equation makes DHI education so valuable. The knowledge needed to correctly and accurately specify and detail door hardware is vast & the DHI education programs are the best way to learn!
Personal story or memories you wish to share
I have fond memories of many years traveling into the GTA for DHI Ontario meetings, and can remember 60 or 70 people attending! The laughs at the bar (both before and after!), education sessions in the afternoon and the meetings themselves were always a good time! Lots has changed over the years, and while it can be challenging to bring people together these days, I do hope like most historical things (bell bottoms, mini-skirts, mullets) we might see a change in the tide in the coming years and the younger generations will see the value in our camaraderie and community and we'll fill a meeting room again soon!