Are you an expert on color trends? Have you mastered the art of outstanding customer service? Are you passionate about a kitchen- or bath-related topic that you want to share with the world? The 2018 Voices from the Industry (VFTI) call for speakers is open and we want to hear from you.

“It’s powerful to be in the presence of people who share the same passions as you,” says Richard Anuszkiewicz, executive director of the kitchen and bath division for Alt Breeding Schwarz Architects in Annapolis, Maryland. “Being selected as a speaker for NKBA’s Voices from the Industry gives you a platform to develop and present on a topic that you believe in and connects you with other exceptional professionals from around the nation. The opportunities are endless, exhilarating and enriching.”

For the 2018 conference, we’ve streamlined our presentation topics to five distinct areas of interest:

  • K&B Specialty Training: A new category for specific training such as plumbing, lighting, cabinetry and appliances
  • Grow Your Business: Tips and tactics to build relationships, increase market share, grow current accounts and develop new customers
  • Design: Subjects can range from creative design solutions for space challenges to designing and planning safe and functional kitchens and bathrooms
  • Management: Covers all aspects of managing business resources, including finance, organizational structure and hiring initiatives
  • Customer Service: Training on ways to deliver exceptional customer service and improve the overall consumer experience

These new areas were created to make it easier than ever for attendees to find the exact training they need.

New for 2017, Interactive Labs proved to be a big hit and will be back next year. A 10 minute lecture is followed by a collaborative, hands-on learning experience where creativity is encouraged. You might have your group work with building materials, colors, samples or something completely new and out of the box.

The 2018 Voices from the Industry conference will feature 80 sessions, so speaking opportunities are limited and may fill up quickly. Click here for more information or to apply to be one of our 2018 speakers. A Submission Planning Worksheet is available to help you with your presentation proposal.

Submissions are due by May 19, and applicants will be notified by mid-June. If chosen, you’ll receive a complimentary VIP registration package to KBIS 2018 in Orlando, Jan. 9 to 11. The package includes a show floor pass, VFTI full conference pass, entry to the Opening Keynote, a ticket to the Design Competition Awards & Opening Party and a Bash ticket, valued at over $400.

If you have any additional questions, email vfti@nkba.org. See you in Orlando!