NKBA’s VFTI Conference at KBIS 2026 in Orlando will present a slate of sessions in seven learning tracks designed to help enhance business, design, technical, and marketing skills.
By NKBA Staff
NKBA’s highly regarded Voices From the Industry Conference at KBIS is among the can’t-miss events during the annual three-day expo. KBIS 2026 takes place in Orlando, FL, at the Orange County Convention Center, Feb. 17 to 19. This professional development series provides engaging, relevant sessions designed to build awareness and skills across seven learning tracks.
The VFTI Conference is generously sponsored by Fabuwood.
Subject Matter Experts will share their expertise in categories including Building & Remodeling, Leadership & Management, Design, Kitchen & Bath Trends, Marketing, Sustainability, and Technology. KBIS attendees may purchase a package that includes an Expo pass and a conference pass for all on-site VFTI presentations, along with unlimited access to on-demand sessions throughout 2026. Topics range from learning about the daunting new world of AI and social media marketing to integrating technology, universal design, and sustainability into projects; from client management to hiring strategies, and from design tips to trending products. All sessions are CEU-qualified, earning 0.1 CEU credit for each hour of instruction, either on-site or on-demand.
New for KBIS 2026, there will be Wine & Design panel discussions from 3 to 4 pm each day featuring SMEs exploring three topics: From Ruin to Renewal: The Role of Design After Disaster (Tuesday); Inclusive by Design: Creating Spaces for Diverse Needs and Life Stages (Wednesday); and The Wellness Blueprint: Spaces that Nurture Body, Mind, and Spirit (Thursday). Light bites and drinks will be served. These events are free and open to all VFTI attendees, but advance registration is required as space is limited.
Here’s a closer look at the six sessions in the Building & Remodeling learning track.
Tuesday, Feb. 17
Function First — No Extra Cost!
Interactive Workshop: 0.15 CEU
Time: 10:30 am – 12 noon
Instructors: Maria Stapperfenne, CMKBD, Designer/Manager, Tewksbury Kitchen & Bath; Doug Lugar, CMKBD, Design Consultant, Nicholson Builders
Ability Level: Intermediate
This presentation will address three common “design-add” traps that drive up construction costs. Participants will learn to leverage early-stage budgeting techniques to put accessibility features into the standard scope. The presenters will discuss how to apply cost-neutral tactics for specifying wider doorways, zero-step entries, and adaptive fixtures. Drawing from data and case studies, attendees will learn how to make a persuasive ROI argument to clients and contractors and learn how to integrate simple tech upgrades (lighting, controls, wellness sensors) without premium pricing.
Remodeling Is a Team Sport: Help Clients Win
Presentation: 0.1 CEU
Time: 2-3 pm
Instructor: Jamie McConnell, Owner, The Cabinet Nerd
Ability Level: Beginner
Remodeling a home is a lot like baseball: there are wins, strikeouts, rain delays — and yes, the occasional home run. But the myth of the “perfect remodel” is as rare as a perfect game.
This session unpacks the phases of a remodel through the lens of America’s favorite pastime, providing designers, showrooms, and contractors with a powerful metaphor to set realistic client expectations and reduce stress. McConnell will discuss how reframing the experience as a team sport builds trust, collaboration, and resilience. Attendees will receive a downloadable “Remodel Lineup Card” that they can use to explain this to clients at pregame.
Wednesday, Feb. 18
Nurturing Collaboration: How Designers and Builders Can Meet Each Other’s Expectations
Presentation: 0.1 CEU
Time: 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Instructor: Jennifer Hutton, Principal Designer and Creative Director, Grau Design Studio
Ability Level: Beginner
To bridge the gap between design and construction, this session will explore how designers and builders/contractors can work together to create a collaborative environment. Learn how to overcome the disconnect between designers and builders, illustrated by real-life examples, tips, tricks, and firsthand experience. Hutton will focus on effective communication among all parties involved in a project, helping attendees better articulate and market their own value while understanding the value of others. She will also explore the building process to illustrate key construction timeline needs, offering practical ways to set expectations and prepare for common questions.
Beyond the Bottom Line: Interpreting Contractor Estimates to Empower Your Clients
Presentation: 0.1 CEU
Time: 2-3 pm
Instructors: Jen Fiorenza, AKBD, Director of Preconstruction, The English Contractor; Craig Russell, Owner/Founder, The English Contractor
Ability Level: Intermediate
Kitchen and bath designers are often their clients’ most trusted advisors throughout the renovation process. Yet, when it comes to reviewing contractor estimates, many homeowners feel overwhelmed by technical jargon, unclear scopes, and inconsistent formats. This session equips designers with the tools and terminology to confidently guide clients through evaluating bids for K&B projects, understanding typical cost structures, identifying red flags, and clarifying key inclusions and exclusions. Attendees will learn how to spot discrepancies, recognize the difference between allowances and fixed pricing, and ask the right questions. From a comprehensive proposal to a one-page quote, Attendees will leave this session with the insight to advocate for their clients’ budget, timeline, and expectations, while fostering better communication between designers and builders.
Thursday, Feb. 19
Bridging the Design/Build Gap From Concept to Completion
Presentation: 0.1 CEU
Time: 9-10 am
Instructor: Fred Reikowsky, Principal, Legacy Business Leaders LLC
Ability Level: Intermediate
Design-build presents a unique opportunity to tap a high-potential, underserved market and command higher prices. While not for everyone, kitchen and bath professionals committed to excellence and willing to do the hard work up front will not only differentiate their companies from the competition but position themselves as the go-to source for all-inclusive high-end services that many desire but few can deliver. The secret to a successful design-build initiative lies in clearly understanding how this powerful process can be leveraged to reach the right audience, produce profitable outcomes for both parties, and generate a self-sustaining referral base.
Inclusive Spaces: Crafting Safe and Functional Homes for Every Generation
Presentation: 0.1 CEU
Time: Thursday, 12:30-1:30 pm
Instructor: LaDonna Eriksen, CEO/Director of Education, Construction Education Consortium
Ability Level: Intermediate
Discover innovative design strategies to transform homes into safe, accessible spaces for all. With over 20 percent of the population aged 65+ by 2030, the living environment must evolve. Learn practical tips for eliminating hazards and creating functional, inclusive spaces that promote independence and well-being at every life stage. Participants will analyze existing home layouts and evaluate potential hazards by identifying environmental barriers that hinder safe mobility. They will learn to define and explain the fundamental principles of safe, accessible home design and will create a comprehensive redesign plan that integrates innovative design strategies.
