The association invited local college professors and students to learn about membership benefits and connect with industry professionals.
By Elisa Fernández-Arias
Earlier this month, NKBA invited college students and professors from local colleges, as well as chapter officers, to its first of two Students of the Industry Night events this year. Held on Sept. 11 at the association’s headquarters in Bethlehem, PA, this event was an opportunity for students to discover more about NKBA student membership, learning initiatives such as badges and certifications, and much more.
The event, attended by Lehigh Carbon Community College faculty and students, is an example of the foundation NKBA builds to support students in the industry so that they can flourish in their future K&B careers. The students also had the opportunity to speak with Susquehanna Valley Chapter and Mid Atlantic Chapter officers, who were also present.
The night started off with Kelly Ann Ryan, NKBA Learning Programs Manager, welcoming guests and introducing them to the association, explaining that NKBA is the world’s leading trade association for the kitchen and bath industry and owner of KBIS. She then outlined the benefits of joining NKBA as a student member, which is free thanks to sponsorship from Sub-Zero Group, Inc., and how entering the Student Design Competition, sponsored by Fisher & Paykel, can raise their profile. She also noted how students can continue to benefit from NKBA membership even beyond graduation.
Afterwards, Lindsay Franco, Senior Manager of NKBA’s Learning Department, reviewed key Initiatives such as current NKBA Badges, Certifications and Continuing Education opportunities for earning CEUs required to maintain Certifications and Badges.
The event ended with networking where students connected with nearby industry professionals and business owners, as well as Chapter officers. “It was great to speak one-on-one with the students from Lehigh Carbon Community College. They impressed me with their questions and their eagerness to begin their careers. I feel extremely confident in the future of the design industry!” said Brianna Weiler, Mid Atlantic Chapter President, of New Hope Cabinets, Baths & Kitchens by Charles Weiler.
