Agenda
Sunday, March 22
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2026-03-22
11:00am - 6:00pm
Registration -
2026-03-22
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Associate Member Session -
2026-03-22
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Contractor Member Session -
2026-03-22
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Supplier Member Session -
2026-03-22
4:00pm - 6:00pm
Accessibility and Residential Open Committee Meeting -
2026-03-22
5:30pm - 6:30pm
First Time Attendee Reception -
2026-03-22
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Welcome ReceptionGet your engines revved and your conversations rolling at Route 66 Road Trip, the official Welcome Reception for the 2026 NAEC Spring Education Conference! Inspired by America’s most iconic highway, this lively networking event invites you to journey through classic diner stops, neon lights, and nostalgic tunes — all without leaving Long Beach.
Fuel up with hearty comfort food, cruise between themed stations, and make meaningful connections with peers from across the elevator industry. This is your chance to relax, laugh, and build new relationships before the conference takes off.
Suggested Attire: Embrace the spirit of the open road with comfortable, Americana-inspired style. Think denim, leather jackets, plaid shirts, or sundresses – or add a splash of retro flair with 1950s diner vibes, vintage tees, or polka dots. Whether you dress for the era or simply keep it casual and ready to mingle, everyone’s welcome to come as they are and enjoy the ride!
Monday, March 23
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2026-03-23
7:00am - 12:00pm
Registration -
2026-03-23
7:30am - 8:30am
Opening BreakfastBegin the day with a plated breakfast and hear from NAEC President Amy DiPaolo as she presents the State of the Association address. Amy will review the association’s accomplishments over the past year, discuss ongoing initiatives, and share goals for the future. This session provides members with an overview of NAEC’s direction and a look at what’s ahead for the industry.
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2026-03-23
8:45am - 9:45am
Education Session: The Significance of Power and Power Protection in the Vertical Transportation IndustryPresentation Title: The Significance of Power and Power Protection in the Vertical Transportation Industry
Description: An overview of how important reliable power and robust power protection systems are to ensure safe, efficient, and uninterrupted operations of elevators. You will hear about the advancements in surge protection systems and how they help to avoid disruptions, costly repairs to electrical systems, as well as protecting electrical components like PC Boards and sensitive controllers.
Speaker: Bruce Nelson, Hytec Dealer Services, Inc.
Bio:

Bruce Nelson has over 3 decades of service experience, leading executives, management, and field service technicians in different industries. He has worked with many OEMS, independent dealers, and has served on many advisory boards, including current roles with Field Service and The Service Council.This experience in distinct industries gives a unique perspective on this topic.
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2026-03-23
8:45am - 9:45am
Education Session: Travel Cables Reimagined: A Journey Through InnovationPresentation Title: Travel Cables Reimagined: A Journey Through Innovation
Description:An overview of traveling cable evolution and latest trends in innovation will be presented with a focus on developments in communications technology and code adoption.
Speaker: Dillard Green, Prysmian DRAKA-EHC
Bio:

Dillard Green draws from over 40 years' experience in wire and cable design and manufacturing focused on the elevator industry. As Product Engineering R&D Manager for Prysmian Draka EHC, he is responsible for product design and innovation, technical customer support and product applications. Customer focused with a passion for solving problems, Dillard particularly enjoys developing wiring solutions for unique elevator projects across the globe.
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2026-03-23
10:00am - 11:00am
Education Session: Because the Code Says So... A18.1Presentation Title: Because the Code Says So
Description: Participants will learn how to interpret essential requirements, avoid common compliance pitfalls, and confidently make decisions in the field—simply because the code says so. Through examples, discussion, and clarification of frequently misunderstood areas, this course equips attendees with the knowledge needed to ensure safer, code-compliant accessibility equipment.
Speakers: Kevin Rusin, McKinley Elevator Corporation & David Lair, Hankin Specialty Elevators
Bio:

Kevin Rusin is the President of McKinley Elevator Corporation and a respected industry leader with 35 years of experience. He serves on the Boards of both AEMA and NAEC, playing a key role in shaping the future of accessibility and elevator technologies. Kevin also contributes to national code development as an Alternate on the A18.1 Committee, reinforcing his commitment to safety, innovation, and industry advancement.

David Lair is the Operations Manager for Hankin Specialty Elevators. David has over 30 years of experience as a licensed elevator mechanic in California and Nevada, Member of the A17.1 Private Residence and LULA Code Committees. David has a passion for the Elevator industry, with a strong commitment to safety and training.
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2026-03-23
10:00am - 11:00am
Education Session: Market TrendsPresentation Title: Market Trends
Description: In this presentation, you will learn that your business needs a dynamic playbook for small and medium-sized businesses, injecting energy into organizational vision, turbocharging communication, and deploying powerful tools to revitalize structure, processes, and overall performance.
Speaker: Dan Walsh, Vantage Elevator Solutions
Bio:

Dan Walsh is the Director of Marketing for Vantage Elevator Solutions, overseeing strategic marketing initiatives to enhance brand awareness, generate leads, and drive growth. Previously, he held leadership roles at KONE Americas, including Director of Modernization Major Projects and Smart Building Technologies, where he managed high-profile modernization projects across the Americas and spearheaded smart building technology integration. He also served as Area Offering Manager for KONE’s modernization product line in North America. Before KONE, Dan was Director of International Sales at Kinetek Industries, shifting market strategy to a direct sales model and expanding operations to Dubai and Istanbul. He also served as Director of Worldwide Sales at Draka Elevator Products, managing global sales teams and integrating joint ventures in China. Dan began his career at Walsh Associates, Ltd., eventually becoming VP of Project Management, leading consulting services for over 75 clients in NYC. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Washington & Lee University, was a member of the Speech and Debate Team, and speaks Spanish and German.
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2026-03-23
11:30am - 5:00pm
Official Golf TournamentSkylinks at Long Beach
11:30am-5:00 pm (1:00pm Modified Shotgun Start)
Tee off with us for the NAEC Official Golf Tournament at Skylinks at Long Beach, one of Southern California’s top public championship courses. Designed by Cal Olson, this par-72 gem features tree-lined fairways, over 70 bunkers, and pristine greens that challenge and reward every skill level.
Participants will enjoy:
· Shuttle transportation to and from the Westin Long Beach
· A delicious boxed lunch, perfect for fueling your game
· Three drink tickets to enhance your day on the course.
Enjoy a day of friendly competition, networking, and fresh air.
Tuesday, March 24
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2026-03-24
8:00am - 4:00pm
Registration -
2026-03-24
8:30am - 9:30am
Education Session: AI: What’s Real, What Works, and What’s NextPresentation Title: AI: What’s Real, What Works, and What’s Next
Description: What AI is actually doing in the elevator industry today, with real, current examples. You’ll get a practical framework for where AI belongs, where it doesn’t, and how to think about using it to solve your problems. Examples will focus on revenue growth, but we’ll also break down where AI fits best across all aspects of your business.
Speaker: Brad Hoersten, ElevatorZip
Bio:

Brad Hoersten is the Founder and CEO of ElevatorZip, a software platform built to help elevator companies grow repair sales. Before starting ElevatorZip, Brad spent nearly a decade on the contractor side of the industry with ThyssenKrupp and Schindler, holding roles in the field, sales, and management.
Brad later shifted to the supplier side to build the software tools the industry was missing. For the past seven years, he has led ElevatorZip’s product and growth, and in recent years he has focused on applying AI to practical elevator-industry challenges.
His blend of industry knowledge, software development, and applied AI experience gives him a unique perspective on where the elevator business is headed, and how companies can benefit from the capabilities emerging today
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2026-03-24
8:30am - 9:30am
Education Session: Strengthening Safety – The Synergy between OSHA and The USA Elevator IndustryPresentation Title: Strengthening Safety – The Synergy between OSHA and The USA Elevator Industry
Description: This session examines the renewed alliance between OSHA and the Elevator Industry Safety Partners and its impact on improving worker safety nationwide. Mr. Gelestino will discuss the formation of the five-year alliance, its key initiatives, and how collaboration with industry organizations is addressing major safety risks such as falls and electrical hazards. Attendees will gain insight into how targeted training, data sharing, and unified partnerships are strengthening safety culture across the elevator industry.
Speaker: Don Gelestino, Champion Elevator
Bio:

Don Gelestino is the Founder, Chairman of the Board, and Past CEO and President of Champion Elevator Corp. He is a veteran of the elevator industry with nearly forty years of experience. Don began his career in 1986 as an apprentice and went on to found Ver-Tech Elevator in 1993. Under his leadership, Ver-Tech grew into a major industry presence, ultimately leading Don to take the company thru its sale to United Technologies in 2010. Don then successfully guided the integration of Ver-Tech and Unitec for several years before founding Champion Elevator Corp. in 2015, where he continues to serve as Chairman and Founder.
Don has held prominent leadership positions within the National Association of Elevator Contractors, including serving as President in 2020. His contributions to the industry were further recognized when he received the William C. Sturgeon Award in 2021. In addition to his industry leadership, Don serves on several boards including Cross County Savings Bank, the President’s Advisory Council for Molloy University, SUNY Old Westbury, and The Maurer Foundation.
Don’s commitment to service extends deeply into philanthropic work as he has been honored by numerous charitable organizations and remains a devoted supporter of causes that strengthen communities and improve the lives of others.
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2026-03-24
9:45am - 10:45am
Education Session: Getting the Right People on the Bus: A Practical System for the Elevator IndustryPresentation Title: Getting the Right People on the Bus: A Practical System for the Elevator Industry
Description: Hiring and retention remain some of the toughest challenges in the elevator industry today. This session shares a practical, proven system based on a series of best practices including the Jim Collins concept for “Right People on the Bus”, the Topgrading methodology and other real-world HR best practices. Learn how to select the right candidates and retain your best people through clear goals, values, and appreciation.
Speaker: Anya Codack, Delco Elevtaor Products Ltd.
Bio:

Anya Codack is the President of Delco Elevator Products Ltd., a family-owned supplier of elevator packages, machines, and components serving contractors across North America. She brings a unique perspective to leadership and HR, blending strategic growth planning with hands-on experience in building strong, motivated teams. At Delco, she has implemented a values-driven hiring and retention system rooted in best practices. Anya is passionate about creating sustainable workplaces where people thrive, and she is looking forward to sharing her insights on business leadership, innovation, and team development in the elevator industry.
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2026-03-24
9:45am - 10:45am
Education Session: The World of a VRC and diving deeper in to the steel and install!Presentation Title: The World of a VRC and diving deeper in to the steel and install!
Description: Dive into the critical steps of a successful installation with a focus on code compliance. Learn how to assess the installation area, apply FEA principles, manage approvals and shipping, and ensure proper staging. Wrap up with a look at code requirements and maintenance practices that keep systems safe and up to standard.
Speaker: Khrystyna Cusimano, Pflow Industries, Inc.
Bio:

Khrystyna Cusimano is the Western Regional Manager of Pflow Industries in which she manages the western 13 states. With decades of management experience her passion for the lifting industry started while helping people in wheelchairs and then grew to the world of vertical reciprocating conveyors. With a degree in Marine Science and being a Scuba Professional, you will fully understand why she is eager to share some interesting steel along the way!
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2026-03-24
11:00am - 12:00pm
Education Session: AI ROI Priorities for Elevator ContractorsPresentation Title: AI ROI Priorities for Elevator Contractors
Description: This seminar shows contractors how to achieve real ROI from AI by applying AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot across estimating, service, finance, and operations. Attendees will learn how AI can automate proposals, predict maintenance needs, forecast cash flow, and optimize scheduling to improve win rates, profitability, and efficiency. By mapping AI capabilities directly to contractor priorities, the seminar provides a practical, out-of-the-box roadmap for faster growth and competitive advantage.
Speaker: Jonathan Taub, FIELDBOSS
Bio:

Jonathan Taub is the President of FIELDBOSS. With over 30 years of experience in software and business strategy, Jonathan has a knack for turning complex operational headaches into streamlined solutions. He’s passionate about working with contractors to understand what’s really happening in the field—and building tools that make their lives easier.
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2026-03-24
11:00am - 12:00pm
Education Session: Elevator Communication Systems: Code Requirements, Cybersecurity, and On-Premises DesignPresentation Title: Elevator Communication Systems: Code Requirements, Cybersecurity, and On-Premises Design
Description:This presentation provides an overview of ASME A17.1 2019 and 2022 code requirements as they relate to elevator communication systems, cybersecurity, and field-applied solutions used to achieve compliance. Attendees will explore the Video, Voice, and Text communication requirements introduced in ASME A17.1 2019, gain an understanding of the cybersecurity provisions added in ASME A17.1 2022, and learn how these requirements intersect within on-premises elevator communication system designs.
Speakers: Colin Lempert & Erin Lukowicz, RATH by AVIRE
Bios:

Colin Lempert is the Western U.S. Regional Sales Manager for Rath Janus by Avire, bringing nine years of experience in the elevator industry. After seven years with Otis Elevator, he has spent the past two years with Rath Janus by Avire, where he supports sales growth while expanding product knowledge and code awareness throughout his region. Colin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management and Marketing from Whitworth University.

Erin Lukowicz is the Northeast Regional Sales Manager for Rath Janus by Avire, with 11 years of experience in the elevator industry. Throughout her career, she has held roles across Modernization, New Construction, and Service/Repair, developing a broad understanding of elevator systems and field operations. Erin is passionate about sales and sharing knowledge with industry peers to support continued growth within the elevator industry.
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2026-03-24
1:15pm - 2:15pm
Education Session: Beyond the Bid: What Wall Street Taught Me About Finding the Right ClientsPresentation Title: Beyond the Bid: What Wall Street Taught Me About Finding the Right Clients
Description: In this high-energy session, Lisa Giuffra Diaz, former Goldman Sachs Managing Director and founder of Turf Elevate, reveals the decision-mapping strategies she used with global CEOs, now adapted for contractors, consultants, and suppliers in vertical transportation.
As an outsider who broke into one of the industry’s most closed networks, Lisa reveals how clarity, focus, and stakeholder intelligence can transform how companies identify opportunities, build alignment, and win the right work.
Speaker: Lisa Diaz, Turf Elevate
Bio:

Lisa Diaz is a distinguished leader in construction innovation, sustainable infrastructure, and emerging technologies. She is the Founder and Managing Partner of Turf Advisory, a premier growth advisory firm accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge construction technologies, and the founder of Turf Elevate, a WBE-certified consulting and procurement firm dedicated to the elevator and vertical transportation sector. Lisa is one of only 15 women to complete the prestigious Vertical Transportation Management Program (VTMP), highlighting her exceptional expertise in the elevator sector.
Her insights and strategic vision are widely recognized across industries. Lisa has served as a judge for technology demonstrations, hosted influential panels, and contributed to high-profile boards, including MIT Delta V, the Smart Cities NY Advisory Board, and as Smart Infrastructure Executive-in-Residence at Cornell Tech.
Previously, Lisa spent 23 years at Goldman Sachs as Managing Director, where she led global investments, strategic partnerships, and complex project evaluations. Today, through her leadership at Turf Advisory and Turf Elevate, Lisa Diaz continues to drive innovation, modernize industries, and deliver transformative solutions that set new benchmarks for excellence.
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2026-03-24
1:15pm - 2:15pm
Education Session: Material Handling PlanPresentation Title: Material Handling Plan
Description: Attendees will explore key principles of material handling and how proper planning contributes to safe and successful operations. Participants will then put their knowledge to the test in an interactive Jeopardy-style game covering both safety and technical concepts discussed during the presentation.
Speakers: Daniel Newlin & Clif Frazier & Greg Nagle, Elevated.
Bios:

Daniel Newlin serves as the Director of Safety and Technical Training at Elevated Facility Services, bringing more than 28 years of combined field and office experience in the elevator industry. Throughout his career, he has held key roles with leading organizations including KONE (Field Technician), Otis (Adjuster), Elevator Control Service (Operations Manager), and Delaware Elevator, where he served as Safety & Education Manager, Supervisor, Superintendent, and Mechanic. Daniel currently resides in Virginia and is assigned to Elevated Facility Services Headquarters in Tampa, where he focuses on advancing safety standards, technical excellence, and workforce development across the organization.

Clif Frazier began his career in the elevator industry on June 1, 2000, with Otis Elevator Company in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He spent five years (2005–2010) traveling nationwide as a Foreman and Adjuster for Otis Elevator, gaining extensive field and leadership experience. In June 2010, he was promoted to Operations Manager for the Otis Albuquerque, New Mexico branch, overseeing Service, Modernization, and New Equipment operations across New Mexico, West Texas, and southern Colorado. In July 2012, he returned to his hometown of Pensacola, Florida, accepting a Maintenance Supervisor role. In 2019, he advanced to Regional Field Operations Manager. In November 2023, he accepted the position of Director of Field Operations for Elevated Facility Services, continuing his leadership career with a strong focus on operational excellence, safety, and team development.

Greg Nagle serves as Vice President of Operations at Elevated Facility Services, bringing more than 20 years of experience in the elevator industry with Otis and Schindler Elevator. He previously held the role of Vice President of Service Sales for Schindler North America, and his leadership experience with Otis included international assignments in Singapore and the Philippines. Greg brings extensive operational expertise and a global perspective to his role, with a focus on process standardization, cost optimization, safety, procurement, fleet management, dispatch, and EPIC. He resides in the Greater Tampa Bay area with his wife and two sons.
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2026-03-24
2:30pm - 3:30pm
Education Session: Primary & Secondary Elevator Brakes: Function, Code Requirements, and Modern Retrofit SolutionsPresentation Title: Primary & Secondary Elevator Brakes: Function, Code Requirements, and Modern Retrofit Solutions
Description: This technical session provides a comprehensive overview of elevator braking systems, including the distinction between primary and secondary brakes, their intended functions, and how they interface with modern elevator safety requirements. The presentation examines ASME A17.1 requirements for emergency braking, including acceptable braking locations and performance expectations. Attendees will gain insight into historical safety concerns, design limitations of legacy equipment, and practical paths for bringing existing installations into compliance through retrofit braking solutions, machine upgrades, and unintended movement protection. The course is designed for elevator contractors, inspectors, engineers, and maintenance professionals seeking a nationwide, code-aligned understanding of braking technologies.
Speakers: Pete McIntosh & Carlos Escobar, Hyperion Solutions
Bios:

Pete McIntosh brings 15 years of experience in the elevator industry, having grown up in the family business at McIntosh Industries. He worked his way from field service mechanic to General Manager, gaining hands-on technical expertise across a wide range of elevator systems and modernization projects. Pete now serves as Director of Business Development – Technical Service at Hyperion Solutions, where he supports customers nationwide with technical guidance, product integration, and modernization solutions. His background uniquely blends field experience, engineering understanding, and business leadership

Carlos Escobar has 18 years of experience in the elevator industry, including the past four years with Hyperion Solutions. Throughout his career, he has developed deep expertise across multiple elevator brands and technologies. Carlos is passionate about building strong customer relationships and helping clients identify the right technical solutions for their equipment and modernization needs. His broad field knowledge and customer-focused approach make him a trusted resource for contractors, inspectors, and modernization teams across the country.
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2026-03-24
2:30pm - 4:00pm
Women in Motion Education: Finding Your Voice in the Room!Presentation Title: Finding Your Voice in the Room!
Description: Confidence, communication, credibility. Practical strategies for speaking up in meetings, negotiations, and presentations.
Moderator:

Molly Cruz brings over 20 years of experience in the elevator industry to her role at ADAMS, where her career first began in 2005 as a member of the Sales team. After gaining broad expertise across the industry, she returned to Schindler as the National Sales and Process Manager.At ADAMS, Molly plays a pivotal role in managing and enhancing sales processes, with a strong emphasis on cultivating strategic customer relationships. She is deeply passionate about connecting people and fostering meaningful partnerships, which aligns with ADAMS’ broader initiative to become a more growth-oriented, sales-focused organization. Molly holds an MBA in Business Management from Keller Graduate School and is currently pursuing her PhD in Communications. She also serves on the board of the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation (EESF), supporting industry-wide efforts to promote public safety and education.
Panelists:

Amy DiPaolo has been in the elevator industry for over 35 years. She started her career at Dover Elevator, and then continued at TK Elevator for 14 years, before going to the independent side of the business. It was then that Amy joined the NAEC and served on various committees and then served for the first time on the NAEC Board of Directors. Amy opened Independence Elevator Company in 2014, sold it in 2021, and is currently working at American Elevator Group. Amy was the inaugural Chair for Women in Motion and served for 3 years as Chair and then as Board Liaison. Amy is the first person in NAEC’s history to serve a second term on the Board of Directors. Her volunteerism will culminate in the NAEC Presidency, where she will preside over the 2026 Convention in Chicago. While her time on the WIM committee is coming to end, as she takes the reigns of the NAEC at the end of the 2025 convention, she will continue to support Women in Motion. Women in Motion has grown by leaps and bounds since its inception and Amy would like part of her industry legacy to be the continued growth of that important committee.

Jackie Herrera is the owner and founder of Mechanical Materials, a woman-owned, minority-certified company transforming the elevator industry through innovative, turnkey solutions. She began her career in a family-owned elevator business, working her way from the front desk to the field and gaining hands-on expertise in parts, operations, and customer service. After moving into sales and later a national marketing role, Jackie co-founded Mechanical Materials, initially focusing on refurbished parts and diversity-driven sourcing. Today, the company supports building owners and contractors nationwide with master service contracts, code compliance, and “work by others” services—streamlining projects through one trusted, dedicated team. Her mission is to bridge gaps within the industry, elevate small and diverse businesses, and strengthen collaboration between contractors and elevator specialists.

Blake Pilgrim grew up in Dayton, Ohio and earned a dual degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Dayton. After graduation, he worked in Finance and Accounting for a large Healthcare organization in Columbus before moving to Toledo in 2012, where he started his career at Wurtec. Initially, he ran Wurtec's Accounting and Human Resources department but quickly decided he wanted to get more involved in and run the operations of our business. That same year he earned an Executive MBA from the University of Toledo. Since 2014, he has led the sales team, and in 2021 was promoted to president. He is blessed to have a wonderful wife and four beautiful children. In his free time he enjoys playing golf, traveling, and spending time outdoors.

Cornelius Walls brings over 30 years of experience in the elevator industry. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of working with several esteemed organizations, which has allowed him to grow both professionally and personally. He has served as the President of the Canadian Elevator Association (CEA) and held board positions with the National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC). Additionally, he was honored to serve as Chairman of the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation (EESF). Currently, he is the VP of Elevator and Escalators Sales at CEDES Corporation of America and actively involved in the ASME Door Protection task force. These roles have enabled him to build valuable knowledge and relationships within the industry, which he continues to leverage as he pursues ongoing success and growth in the elevator sector.
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2026-03-24
5:30pm - 6:30pm
Tuesday Night ReceptionUnwind after a full day of sessions at the Reception, held in the stylish Navy Proof lounge and outdoor patio at The Westin Long Beach. Enjoy lite bites, a full bar, and casual networking with peers before heading out to explore the restaurants, nightlife, and oceanfront energy of downtown Long Beach on your own. It’s the perfect way to lift your spirits and connect before the evening begins.
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2026-03-24
9:00pm - 11:00pm
NexGen NightCap (all attendees invited)Queen Mary Paranormal Ship Tour
Join NexGen for a thrilling excursion aboard the famous Queen Mary. The experience begins at 7:30pm with beverages and gathering at the bar. At 9:00pm, join everyone on a thrilling 2-hour Paranormal Ship Walk as you’ll be guided through areas of the ship seldom seen by the public, exploring the legends behind the ocean’s liner’s most illustrious past passengers.
$80 per person includes happy hour beverages and the Paranormal Ship Walk tour. All Conference Attendees are invited to attend!
Wednesday, March 25
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2026-03-25
8:00am - 12:00pm
Registration -
2026-03-25
9:00am - 10:00am
Education Session: Percentage-of-Completion (POC) Accounting for the Elevator Service Industry. How it impacts the accuracy of your financials, your profitability and how it could hinder an eventual effort to sell your business.Presentation Title: Percentage-of-Completion (POC) Accounting for the Elevator Service Industry. How it impacts the accuracy of your financials, your profitability and how it could hinder an eventual effort to sell your business.
Description: Modernization and major repair projects can stretch across months, involve large deposits, fluctuating costs, multiple suppliers, and complex installation timelines. Many elevator contractors struggle to match revenue recognition with actual field performance, which creates distorted financial statements.
Percentage-of-completion (POC) accounting offers a structured method to recognize revenue based on real progress, not just billing milestones. For contractors who want stronger financial insight, smoother year-end close outs, and better job-level visibility, POC is the preferred approach.
This session will break down POC from the elevator industry’s perspective, explaining when it applies, how to implement it, and how to avoid the common traps that distort financial statements.
Speakers: Jeff Eaton & Jessica Hellman, Lift Business Advisors, Inc.
Bios:

Jeff Eaton is the President of Lift Business Advisors. He has worked in the elevator industry since 1989, running large operations for Otis and KONE with progressively larger roles such as Branch Manager, District Manager, Regional General Manager, and Country-level Director. In his last 6 years at KONE, he was the Director of Acquisitions for the Americas and was part of a team that acquired 33 businesses. He joined Lift Business Advisors in 2014 and enjoys helping independent elevator company owners achieve their goals. Jeff served on the NAEC Board of Directors from 2019 to 2022 and is currently on the Membership Development Committee.

Jessica Hellman joined Lift Business Advisors in 2017 as an Adjunct Advisor. She has since become an essential part of the team, assisting owners with quantifying the value of their business and achieving their goal of selling. She has been a part of over 40 deals and is well-versed in the selling process, from NDA execution to closing and post-closing activities.
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2026-03-25
9:00am - 10:00am
Education Session: Residential Elevator Inspections – When and WhoPresentation Title: Residential Elevator Inspections – When and Who
Description: This session provides an overview of key considerations for residential elevator safety, maintenance, and compliance. Attendees will learn how to identify elevator types and features, review general operations, and recognize areas for improvement during installations, service work, and real estate transitions. The course also covers incident response, state and municipal inspection requirements, and practical safe-use practices.
Speaker: Jeff Tarkington, Tarkington Elevator Company, Inc.
Bio:

With a career that began in 1976, Jeff Tarkington brings decades of experience and leadership to the accessibility and residential elevator industry. Early in his career, he gained valuable construction expertise working with a design-build architectural firm specializing in the medical sector. He further expanded his skill set through field management roles with a large general contractor and multiple subcontractors on high-rise construction projects. In 1988, he founded Tarkington Home Repair, securing contracts with the Veterans Administration to rehabilitate homes for disabled Veterans—work that deeply shaped his commitment to accessibility and service. That same year, he completed his first residential elevator installation. In 1991, he transitioned the business exclusively into accessibility and residential elevator services, where the company continues to thrive. This year marks 38 years of dedicated service in the industry.
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2026-03-25
10:30am - 11:30am
Education Session: Future-Proofing Elevators: How IoT Remote Monitoring Aligns with the 2019–2022 Elevator CodePresentation Title: Future-Proofing Elevators: How IoT Remote Monitoring Aligns with the 2019–2022 Elevator Code
Description: This course examines how IoT and remote monitoring technologies are transforming elevator maintenance and compliance in response to the 2019–2022 elevator code. Participants will explore how connected systems enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making. The session highlights the impact on technicians, service managers, and owners, focusing on improved safety, reliability, code alignment, and operational efficiency.
Speaker: Robert Schram, CEDES
Bio:

Robert Schram brings 25 years of diverse construction, marketing, and sales experience. From small to large elevator repair projects, hydraulic and traction modernization, and bid specification projects. He has worked with elevator service providers, oil line and piston companies, and cab interior firms. He has become Senior Account Executive for the Elevators and Escalators market segment. In his new role, Robert will focus on small and medium OEMs, independent service providers and our CEDES distribution network.
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2026-03-25
10:30am - 11:30am
Education Session: Dynamic Methods for Safety TrainingPresentation Title: Dynamic Methods for Safety Training
Description: Exploring techniques to make your safety training more effective.
Speaker: Michael F. Luraschi, ASP, TEI Group Inc
Bio:

A West Point graduate with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, Michael Luraschi brings a unique blend of military discipline and technical expertise to the elevator industry. After serving five years as a U.S. Army Engineer Officer—including a deployment to Kosovo—he transitioned into the elevator sector, where he spent over a decade managing complex Construction and Modernization projects in New York City. Now, as the Director of Environmental Health and Safety for TEI Group, Michael leverages his background as an OSHA Outreach Trainer to transform safety from a compliance requirement into a dynamic, engaging culture.
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2026-03-25
11:45am - 1:00pm
Women in Motion Lunch -
2026-03-25
12:00pm - 6:00pm
No Frills Golf TournamentLakewood Country Club
11:30am-5:00 pm (1:00pm Modified Shotgun Start)
Keep it simple and all about the game. Join fellow attendees for the No Frills Golf Tournament at Lakewood Country Club - a timeless Southern California favorite known for its wide, tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and true-rolling greens.
Originally designed in 1933 by renowned architect William P. Bell and later updated for modern play, Lakewood offers a classic 18-hole, par-72 layout that stretches just over 7,000 yards. The course features water on seven holes, a signature par-3 that demands precision over water, and a relaxed, parkland setting perfect for friendly competition and networking on the fairway.
Sharpen your swing, pair up with new friends, and enjoy a no-frills day on one of Long Beach’s most enjoyable courses.
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2026-03-25
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Dregs PartyEnd the 2026 NAEC Spring Education Conference on a high note with Rock the Coast: an all-out celebration of great music, great friends, and good vibes. This is your chance to unwind, let loose, and turn up the volume with fellow elevator professionals after an inspiring week in Long Beach.
We’re bringing the energy of a California music festival to the coast complete with live music, dancing, themed bites, and plenty of room to relax, laugh, and make those last connections before heading home. Whether you’re air-guitaring by the stage or chatting under the patio lights, this is the night where everyone becomes part of the band.
Suggested attire: California concert casual – jeans, band tees, sundresses, or anything that rocks your style. Comfortable shoes encouraged…it’s time to hit the dance floor!