This year’s theme: Ignite Your Creativity, Sharpen Your Skills
As part of NKBA’s third annual Education Appreciation Week, the Fall 2026 NKBA Student Design Symposium on September 25th is a free career development event designed to inspire and equip students for a successful future. This year’s theme, Ignite Your Creativity, Sharpen Your Skills, features a timely and inspired keynote from Sharon Sherman, CKD, as well as expert-led breakout sessions.
“The Student Design Symposium is a great opportunity to gain valuable career development in a virtual conference setting from the comfort of home,” said Kelly Ann Ryan, NKBA’s Senior Manager of Professional Development and host of the symposium. “While many students would love to attend an event in person, it’s not always possible due to time and financial limitations. It’s important for us to bring these kitchen and bath design career opportunities to the up-and-coming members of our community.”
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION:
AI, Your Design POV & the Wellbeing Mandate for the Next Generation
Sharon Sherman, CKD, Founder of Thyme & Place Design
Sharon will cover three important topics for the modern designer. First, she’ll show students how to use AI as a tool without letting it think for them, or quietly homogenize the whole profession in the process. Next, she’ll discuss what makes a designer worth hiring by walking students through how to start identifying and developing their own design POV, no matter what style they gravitate toward. Third, and closest to her heart: the role kitchen and bath designers play in the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of the people who live in the spaces they create. From layered lighting scent, sound, chromotherapy, designing for the life clients want to experience, Sharon makes the case that health, safety, and welfare aren’t optional upgrades. They’re the job.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS:
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: Building Your Career in the Kitchen & Bath Industry Real-World Advice for Turning Talent into Opportunity
With Dean Camastro, Vice President of Sales North America at Duravit USA. Learn how to approach every project as a carefully curated composition of aesthetics, functionality, wellness, accessibility, and long-term value.
Getting to Know the Latest Kitchen & Bath Design Guidelines (5th edition)
With Doug Walter, Founder, Doug Walter Architects. Tune into this quick “Cliff’s Notes” version of the Guidelines–the standard of professional practice for kitchen & bath designers.
Ignite Creativity
With Paula Kennedy Designer & Owner, Timeless Kitchen Design. Explore what creativity is, what blocks it, and how to cultivate it–with real tools you can start using right away.
You Belong in the Room: How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome and Build Your Professional Network
With Christine Gee, CEO, G Interiors Studio & Design Center. Discover practical ways to approach industry events with greater confidence and become active members of the design community.
The Invisible Interview: The First Impression You Didn’t Know You Were Making
With Megan McIntyre, Founder and Creative Director, The Marketing Corner. Understand the seven trust signals that influence modern purchasing decisions and shape how homeowners evaluate kitchen and bath professionals.
Say What?!: Communication Tips for Successful Design Projects
With Sharon J. Washington, Eclexis Design, LLC. Learn how to leverage the observational skills needed in interior design to improve interactions with clients and colleagues.
The keynote presentation and breakout sessions will be available on demand following the live event.
Why Participate?
- Informative Sessions: Gain valuable insights from experienced designers, suppliers, and contractors.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow students and professionals from across the NKBA network.
- Interactive and Engaging: Participate in a dynamic virtual conference experience.
- Prizes: Don’t miss out on exciting door prizes!
Don’t miss this opportunity to fuel your career growth and gain practical strategies for success in the kitchen and bath industry. Register for the Fall 2026 Student Design Symposium now!
