DHI 50th Anniversary

In 2025 DHI proudly celebrates 50 years of excellence! It all began when the National Builders Hardware Association (NBHA) and the American Society of Architectural Hardware Consultants (ASAHC) united in 1975 to form the Door and Hardware Institute. For five decades, we've been elevating door security and safety professionals, and the celebration continues all year long! Join us as we honor our history, achievements, and the future of our industry.

 

On March 1, 1973, 15 volunteers from the National Builders Hardware Association (NBHA) and the American Society of Architectural Hardware Consultants (ASAHC) met in Washington, D.C. to lay the groundwork for a merger. What started as a discussion soon turned into a complex process — one that took two years to finalize! By May 1975, the Door and Hardware Institute (DHI) was officially incorporated, bringing greater definition and structure to our industry.

From the beginning, the association was built on a strong foundation of purpose and objectives, including:

• Representing the architectural openings industry as a key part of the construction sector
• Collaborating with architects to ensure the selection and specification of high-quality materials
• Providing qualified technicians to engineer, manufacture, and detail standard and specialized construction components
• Establishing technical and managerial educational programs, along with a certification system to support industry professionals
• Upholding codes of conduct that elevate professional standards for technicians
• Fostering collaboration among members to drive industry-wide progress
• Advancing operational efficiency through improved management practices

This merger not only united two organizations but also set the stage for five decades of innovation, education, and leadership in the door security and safety industry.

As we celebrate 50 years of advocacy, education, and innovation, we also look ahead to the future of our association. DHI remains committed to empowering door security and safety professionals and the companies they represent in the non-residential construction industry.

Through education, advocacy, accreditation, and facilitated networking, we provide our members with the collective knowledge and resources to meet evolving security and safety needs. Our commitment to excellence continues to shape industry standards and drive innovation.

Setting the bar for door and hardware safety, our American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Accreditation for Standards Development is just one example of how DHI is leading the way. Together, we are building a future where safe and secure openings are the standard — nationwide and beyond.

Join us in celebrating 50 years of DHI on social media! Here's how you can be part of the celebration:

Share Your DHI Story: What has DHI meant to you? How has it shaped your career?
Post a Throwback: Share a photo from past DHI events or training sessions.
Join the Conversation: Use #DHI50Years to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going.

Or, use these social templates and graphics to join the fun! Right-click the graphics below to download and post on your own social channels.

Customizable Social Posts

• "Proud to be part of DHI, an organization that has been shaping the door security and safety industry for 50 years! Here’s to the next 50! #DHI50Years"
• "For 50 years, DHI has brought together professionals dedicated to door security and safety. Honored to be part of this community! #DHI50Years"
• "From past events to future innovations, DHI continues to set the standard for our industry. Excited for what’s ahead! #DHI50Years"
• "From training and certification to invaluable connections, DHI has played a huge role in my career. Grateful to be part of this legacy! #DHI50Years"
• "Looking back at some great memories with DHI! Here’s a snapshot from [past event/training]."
• "As we celebrate 50 years of DHI, we’re also looking ahead to the future of the industry. Exciting things are on the horizon! What are you looking forward to? #DHI50Years"

DHI has been leading the door security and safety industry for 50 years, and we’re just getting started! Stay connected, grow your expertise, and be part of the future of our industry. Join DHI today and celebrate the next 50 years with us!