The KBIS educational conference is helping professionals harness technology across design, marketing, and business.
By Nicholas Tamarin
As technology reshapes every corner of the design industry, the NKBA | KBIS Voices From the Industry (VFTI) Conference is meeting that moment head-on. Running from February 17 to 19, 2026, in Orlando, VFTI will once again serve as the educational centerpiece of KBIS—this year with an enhanced focus on AI and its growing influence on the kitchen and bath industry.
With the introduction of two new educational tracks—Technology and Sustainability—VFTI 2026 underscores how the industry’s most forward-thinking minds are embracing innovation. Through a curated selection of AI-focused sessions, attendees will gain practical insights into how intelligent tools are transforming marketing, design workflows, and client experiences.
“We recognize that as the industry evolves, our focus on educational subjects must evolve with it,” said Kelly Ann Ryan, Learning Programs Manager for NKBA. “AI is no longer a distant concept—it’s becoming a daily tool for creative professionals, and our sessions are designed to show how it can elevate efficiency and creativity in real-world applications.”
AI in Action: From Design to Delivery
Attendees will learn about the multifaceted nature of AI across the K&B industry. Sessions like “From Friction to Flow: AI-Powered Customer Journey Transformation” and “AI in Action: Smarter Workflows, Smarter Designs” will reveal how designers and business leaders are integrating AI to streamline operations, enhance creativity, and anticipate client needs.
From automating marketing outreach to generating mood boards and visual concepts, the sessions will show AI’s potential to augment human creativity—not replace it. These discussions will help attendees leave with tangible ideas on how to apply AI as both a strategic and creative partner in their work.
Beyond Technology: The Full VFTI Experience
Of course, AI is just one dimension of the comprehensive VFTI 2026 lineup. Returning favorite categories such as Building & Remodeling, Leadership & Management, Design, Kitchen & Bath Trends, and Marketing are joined by the new Technology and Sustainability tracks.
VFTI continues to deliver real-world insights and immediately applicable learning for professionals at every level. Sessions such as “Smarter Kitchens & Baths: Elevating Design with Technology”, “Real-World Sustainability for Kitchen Designers”, and “Home Sweet Home: Tailoring Spaces for Autism and Aging in Comfort” round out a schedule that’s as diverse as it is impactful.
Networking Meets Learning
A new VFTI feature for 2026, Wine & Design, invites attendees to conclude each conference day with a relaxed, interactive discussion from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the VFTI area of the Orange County Convention Center. These casual sessions foster networking and in-depth exploration of design topics in a social and collaborative atmosphere. VFTI participants will be invited to pre-register for these special events.
Register Today
All VFTI sessions are CEU-qualified, offering 0.1 CEU for one-hour sessions and 0.15 CEUs for 90-minute workshops. Packages include access to both the KBIS Expo and all on-site VFTI presentations, as well as select on-demand sessions throughout 2026.
Whether you’re looking to integrate AI into your business or stay ahead of design and sustainability trends, Voices From the Industry 2026 is your gateway to innovation.
📅 February 17–19, 2026
📍 Orlando, FL🔗 Explore the full VFTI schedule and register today.
