Agenda
Sunday, March 22
Monday, March 23
-
2026-03-23
8:45am - 9:45am
Education Session: Strength Through Time: Travel Cables Reimagined: A Journey Through InnovationPresentation Title: Strength Through Time: The Legacy and Best Practices of Wire Rope
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Speaker: Kevin Rusin, McKinley Elevator Corporation
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.
-
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.
Tuesday, March 24
-
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
-
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.
-
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.
-
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!
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Wednesday, March 25
-
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.
-
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.