Imagine the industry’s best and brightest gathered in one room. Now picture yourself at the front of the crowd, sharing your knowledge and passion with them. That’s what it’s like to be a presenter for the NKBA Voices from the Industry (VFTI) conference at KBIS.

But don’t just take our word for it. Below, some previous VFTI speakers weigh in on the benefits of presenting, including networking and exchanging ideas with other trendsetters and business leaders:

Voices from the Industry is an interesting title. Most people think it applies to the presenters, but it applies to the audiences as well. I get to hear their voices and their points of view. Sure, I present my content, but the interaction is what it is all about. It is exciting, invigorating and, honestly, one of the things I really look forward to. Each year I meet new people—designers, showroom managers, builders—in fact, now that I’ve been there a few times, people come to retake my courses.
-Jim Nowakowski, owner and president, Interline Creative Group

It’s very powerful to be in the presence of people who share the same passions as you. Voices from the Industry is a must for anyone looking for exponential growth in the kitchen and bath industry. It not only gives you a platform to develop and present on a topic you believe in, but also allows you to connect with other exceptional professionals from around the nation. The opportunities are endless.
-Richard T. Anuszkiewicz, executive director of the kitchen and bath division, Alt Breeding Schwarz Architects

VFTI offered me the opportunity to present my out-of-the-box ideas to business people not just regionally, but nationally and internationally, all in one room! This unique platform allowed me to gain valuable audience input across all aspects of the kitchen and bath industry in an efficient way, and I appreciated NKBA’s demonstrated support of professional development by including my seminars.
-Liesbet Trappenburg, international speaker, Windmill Worldwide, Discover Yourself!™

Presenting at VFTI means you’re an expert in your chosen field—someone with a true passion for building both your own success as well as the industry’s as a whole:

Speaking at the KBIS VFTI has enabled me to connect and grow. It’s a way of giving back, while also getting—because I’ve learned so much from sharing ideas. I encourage others to contribute, too. Your knowledge, skills and point of view will help improve our industry and profession.
-Sarah Reep, CMKBD, ASID, IIDA, CMKBD, CMG, CAPS, director, designer relations & education, Masco Cabinetry

We’re constantly evolving, and our newly launched Interactive Labs are all about hands-on interaction and audience participation. If you’re an out-of-the-box thinker, this may be the perfect way for you to share your ideas.

Talk about some serious fun during the Interactive Lab at KBIS! There’s some amazing talent participating in these conferences. We covered basic trend forecasting concepts and then got hands on, creating our own futuristic concepts. The level of participation was impressive and got somewhat competitive, which contributed to the fun. The Interactive Lab concept allows presenters to really get creative, and the participants can network while they learn.
-Elle H-Millard, CKD, CLIPP, CfyH, NKBA Manager, Certification + Design

What are you waiting for? For more information or to apply to be one of our 2018 speakers, check out our VFTI submission form. A Submission Planning Worksheet is available to help you with your proposal, which is due no later than May 19. Join this elite group of presenters by sending in your submission today!