Nominate an outstanding educator by November 1, 2024
By NKBA Staff
In conjunction with Education Appreciation Week, NKBA | KBIS invites members to nominate an Educator of the Year. New for 2024, this award recognizes an outstanding individual who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing the knowledge and skills of students within the kitchen and bath industry.
Students, peers, and colleagues can submit letters of recommendation attesting to the educator’s impact and effectiveness through the online nomination form. The nomination period is open now and will close on November 1, 2024.
Letters of recommendation should address the following:
Innovative Teaching Methods
Impact on Students and Professionals
Industry Contribution
Professionalism and Dedication
Leadership and Collaboration
Community and Industry Engagement
A panel of NKBA representatives will review nominations. The selection process will involve evaluating each nominee based on the outlined criteria, focusing on their overall impact and contributions to the field.
The NKBA | KBIS Educator of the Year will be honored at KBIS 2025. The award recipient will enjoy complimentary roundtrip airfare, KBIS registration, and hotel accommodations for the event, which will take place from February 24-27, 2025, in Las Vegas, NV.
Alexander Drozdovitch won first place with this bath design in the 2023-2024 Student Design Competition.
By NKBA Staff
NKBA | KBIS is excited to announce the 2023 – 2024 Student Design Competition winners. The annual competition, open exclusively to NKBA | KBIS student members, features top prizes of $5000 and travel packages to KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas.
Paying homage to NKBA’s 60th anniversary, the 2023-2024 competition scenario featured a mid-century home with architectural elements common to the 1960s. Students were tasked with updating the home’s kitchen and primary bathroom to make them more modern and functional for an active family of four. Competition participants were challenged by the small square footage of the rooms and the expectation to incorporate a mix of vintage style and touches of modern art into the finished designs.
The NKBA | KBIS Student Design Competition is generously sponsored by Fisher & Paykel. Winners in both the kitchen and bath categories receive scholarships in the following amounts:
First Place: $5000
Second Place: $2500
Third Place: $1000
Kitchen Design Winners
First Place
Kerry Lombard, Century College
Project Name: A MCM Culinary Revival
Judges appreciated Kerry’s creative integration of storage space and admired her creativity and decision to break up the room’s linear feel.
“A MCM Culinary Revival” by 1st Place Kitchen Category Winner, Kerry Lombard of Century College, White Bear Lake, Minnesota. Rendering courtesy of Chief Architect.
Second Place
Cassandra Jerrems, Saddleback College
Project Name: Nostalgic Nouveau
In her design, Cassandra balanced the G-shape of the kitchen effectively and incorporated a practical approach to seating.
“Nostalgic Nouveau” by 2nd Place Kitchen Category Winner, Cassandra Jerrems of Saddleback College, Mission Viejo, California. Rendering courtesy of SketchUp with Enscape.
Third Place
Meghan King, Lakeland College
Project Name: Connect Four
Meghan’s design featured excellent placement of the cooktop and placed a good amount of focus on technology.
“Connect Four” by Meghan King of Lakeland College, Vermilion, Alberta, Canada. Rendering is courtesy of SketchUp with V-Ray.
Bath Design Winners
First Place
Alexander Drozdovitch, Montgomery College
Project Name: Bathing in Light
Judges admired the integration of two entrances and noted Alexander’s excellent use of appliances. The design featured a creative layout and good attention to detail.
“Bathing in Light” by Alexander Drozdovitch of Montgomery College, Rockville, Maryland. Rendering is courtesy of Autodesk 3ds Max ® with Chaos ® Corona.
Second Place
Kateryna Ponomarova, Montgomery College
Project Name: Springtime Sunrise
Standout details of Kateryna’s entry include a bright design and a welcome incorporation of a wet room.
“Springtime Sunrise” by Kateryna Ponomarova of Montgomery College, Rockville, Maryland. Rendering is courtesy of Lumion.
Third Place
Mamie Granger, Lakeland College
Project Name: Modern Contrasting Cohesion
Judges complimented Mamie’s use of the room’s existing footprint for her design and her balanced approach. They also appreciated the integration of appliances such as a cool drawer.
“Modern Contrasting Cohesion” by Mamie Granger of Lakeland College, Vermilion, Alberta, Canada. Rendering is courtesy of SketchUp with V-Ray.
Many design students envision a specific career path after graduation but often need to be made aware of the diverse job options available in the field. Understanding these opportunities can help students focus on their strengths and kickstart their job search. On November 6 at 2 p.m. EST, NKBS | KBIS will present an exclusive student webinar featuring Jodi Tramontin, CMKBD. Jodi will offer an insightful look at the K+B job market and highlight opportunities to help students find their niche.
Jodi Tramontin is an NKBA Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) with over 30 years of experience in interior design and the kitchen and bath industry. Over the past 20 years, she has focused on training and mentoring kitchen and bath designers across the United States and Canada. As National Training Manager for Essential Cabinetry Group, Jodi assists industry professionals by leveraging cutting-edge technology to streamline the kitchen and bath sales process.
In her presentation, Jodi will share her career journey and discuss the unexpected changes she encountered along the way. Attendees will also learn how to apply their education to fields such as manufacturing, marketing, sales, retail, and other specialized roles. This webinar is not only ideal for students, but also for new professionals seeking a role that aligns with their strengths and passions.
All NKBA student and educator members will receive an invitation to register for this webinar in the coming weeks. A recorded version will be available for on-demand viewing following the live event.
The next generation of kitchen and bath designers depends on great educators.
Paula Kennedy, CMKBD.
By Dianne M. Pogoda
A ubiquitous bumper sticker reads, “If you can read this, thank a teacher.” For homeowners, that might be tweaked to, “If you love your kitchen, thank a design teacher.”
The kitchen and bath industry, like any other, relies on the passion and dedication of instructors to pass the knowledge, skills, and practical application of the craft to rising designers, tradespeople, and specifiers.
Whether these instructors are educators by trade or teach in addition to pursuing their own professions within the industry, they share an affinity for the subject, a desire to nurture, and they gain immense satisfaction in giving back to the community.
Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, juggles her own business — Timeless Kitchen Design in Seattle — and teaching as an adjunct professor at Highline Community College in Des Moines, WA, and at the Heritage School of Interior Design, also in Seattle. She’s also an NKBA-approved CEU speaker at the Voices from the Industry Conference at KBIS and at chapter events. She teaches an introductory course to interior design at Highline, and kitchen and bath design at Heritage.
“I do believe the more we teach, the more we learn. The act of teaching takes us into a whole different level of learning. If you want to learn your craft like an expert, teach it.” — Paula Kennedy, CMKBD
“There’s something great about teaching and giving back to this industry that I love so much, and to the next generation,” Kennedy said. “The next generation is where it’s at. I learn so much from them, they look at things so differently. It’s something in my DNA — my father was a teacher, too — I do believe the more we teach, the more we learn. The act of teaching takes us into a whole different level of learning. If you want to learn your craft like an expert, teach it. If you can teach it, that means you really know it. You know it deep down, it’s not just ‘head knowledge.’”
Image courtesy of Jim DePietro.
Jim DePietro has been with Lehigh Carbon Community College, an NKBA Affiliated School in Schnecksville, PA, for 37 years. He’s currently Technology Coordinator, overseeing all the department’s programs and teaching in each discipline: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Kitchen and Bath Design, and Heating and Air Conditioning. His goal was to be a teacher, and he graduated with a degree in industrial teaching from Millersville University. But before pursuing a career in education, he spent about eight years in manufacturing, working from machinist to supervisor and then into engineering. He began teaching night classes at LCCC and finally took a full-time teaching position in 1987.
“My industrial experience was the most invaluable time of my career to shape me into the instructor that I am,” he said. “LCCC is accredited college, and it has helped as a recruiting tool as some folks like the idea that we truly are backed by a national association and our curriculum is based on a professional platform.”
Becoming a Teacher
There are several routes to becoming an instructor at the post-secondary or college level. The requirements are different for a full professor compared to an instructor level or adjunct professor.
“The qualifications for becoming a college professor are either a minimum of a master’s degree in your field or a bachelor’s degree with related experience,” said DePietro. “That is the path that I came in under until I did get my master’s degree.”
DePietro said teaching at the college level is “extremely satisfying.”
“It challenges me to give the students the best experience possible and help them to mature and take on responsibilities that will prepare them for their professional careers,” he said. “In addition to teaching, our responsibility is also to place them in technical positions. So, to see them through their educational experience and then to assist in obtaining a job is extremely satisfying. I would highly recommend this profession to anyone.”
For Kennedy, the journey was different. She had been on the advisory council for Highline for years, well before she started teaching, and she occasionally spoke at the school.
“I always thought that someday, I’d like to teach — but I didn’t have a master’s degree, and most colleges require a certain level of education,” Kennedy noted. “But one of my friends on the advisory council suggested that being an adjunct professor had different requirements, so that’s how I was able to qualify as an instructor. There are multiple pathways to becoming an educator.”
She said her industry experience has brought a different dimension to her classroom. “My students love it that I am active in the business and not solely a full-time educator, because they see that this is an attainable goal,” she observed. “I can bring real-life experiences to the classroom, and take them on field trips to a job site or a showroom.”
Kennedy said she wasn’t always comfortable speaking in front of crowds, and was shy in her younger years. “If you’re not comfortable speaking, you can learn how to do this, how to gain confidence,” she advised. “You can learn to create a curriculum, so don’t let that hold you back.”
The Bottom Line
No matter how they landed in the classroom, the educators concur that they get as much from teaching as their students.
“At my core, I love connecting with and inspiring people, and if I can do that, there’s nothing greater than inspiring someone else to go beyond their limitations,” said Kennedy. “Inspiring them and giving them confidence to continue on their path is so rewarding. What I learn from them is incredible. Seeing the ‘a-ha’ moments on their faces and the feedback about what they learn and how I teach is amazing.”
DePietro mused, “Some days I find it hard to believe that I get paid for having so much fun. I believe our program is so unique in that the students get to build a real kitchen and bathroom and have such an amazing project experience they can include in their portfolio.
I am so fortunate to walk this path in life and call it a career.”
NKBA | KBIS is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of K&B professionals through its Students of the Industry membership program and student chapters (sponsored by Sub-Zero Wolf and Cove), Affiliated Schools, and the Student Design Competition (sponsored by Fisher & Paykel and supported by Chief Architect).
To learn more about these programs and student resources, visit the NKBA Student Page here, or contact Kelly Ann Ryan, Learning Programs Manager, at kryan@nkba.org.
NKBA | KBIS recognizes the importance of co-curricular programming and professional development opportunities for students and educators. While the Association provides continuous access to professional webinars and continuing education programs for all members, several exclusive opportunities are offered specifically for students and/or educators throughout the 2024-2025 academic year.
Webinar: Charting Your Career Path November 6, 2024 2:00 p.m. ET
Jodi Tramontin, CMKBD
This special student webinar, featuring guest speaker Jodi Tramontin, CMKBD, will provide an insightful look at the K+B job market and highlight opportunities to help students find their niche.
Join us for an energizing coffee break at KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas, NV. Students and educators are invited to enjoy a selection of coffee and refreshments while participating in a valuable educational experience. Advanced registration is required. Invitations will be emailed to all student and educator KBIS registrants in January 2025.
Student Design Symposium: Spring Into Your Design Career March 21, 2025 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PT
Nureed Saeed.
The Student Design Symposium is a virtual, interactive event hosted by the NKBA Northern California Chapter. For just $15, students can register for this dynamic conference, which will feature a keynote speaker address by Nureed Saeed, 2023 KBB Person of the Year. The event will also include breakout sessions, networking, prizes and more. Register today.
Educator Webinar April 10, 2025 2:00 p.m. EST
NKBA Educators should mark their calendars for this webinar, which is tailored specifically for those who work with post-secondary students. The content will focus on student development specific to design majors. Stay tuned for more details in the new year.
Student Design Competition Open Now – June 6, 2025 Enter Now
NKBA Student Members can enter the kitchen competition, the bath competition, or both competitions, crafting designs based on client requests and provided plans. Winning this prestigious competition enhances industry visibility and offers scholarships of up to $5,000. For full details, visit the competition webpage. The NKBA | KBIS Student Design Competition is generously sponsored by Fisher & Paykel.
Thanks to the support of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, students can join for free. NKBA | KBIS is also free for educators.
The Kitchen & Bath Industry Hall of Fame is now accepting nominations for its next inductees! If you know someone who has made a transformational impact on the kitchen, bath, and home industry, we want to hear from you.
Submissions are open from September 8, 2025 until October 15, 2025.
Current Hall of Fame inductees include, among dozens of others:
Gunnar Baldwin – Inventor of the low-flush toilet
Fu-Tung Cheng – Pioneer in the use of concrete in kitchens and baths
Louis Jenn – Inventor of the first downdraft range
Percy Spencer – Inventor of the microwave oven
Jean Mignault – Developer of early CAD software for kitchen and bath design
We encourage you to honor those who have shaped our industry by sharing their stories. Before submitting your nominee for consideration, please read the criteria below carefully to ensure your nominee meets the Hall of Fame standards. We look forward to reviewing your submission for this prestigious honor. Self-nominations are not accepted and will not be considered. Deadline to nominate is October 15, 2025.
Please note: This application requires thoughtful and thorough responses. The Hall of Fame represents the highest level of achievement in our industry, and the review committee will evaluate only the materials provided — no outside research will be conducted, so please take the time to supply your nominee with a stellar submission.
While we celebrate the many individuals who have built successful businesses, enjoyed distinguished careers, and earned numerous accolades, induction into the Hall of Fame is reserved for those who exemplify the highest level of achievement and impact. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals whose contributions have significantly advanced the kitchen and bath design, remodeling, sales, product development, and broader home industry.
Hall of Fame honorees are visionaries who have elevated the industry’s image and interests through outstanding accomplishments. Nominees must demonstrate a lasting, transformative influence on the industry’s growth, innovation, and professionalism on a national or global scale.
Nominees, regardless of their current status in the industry, should meet the majority of the following criteria:
A minimum of 10 years of experience in the kitchen/bath or whole-home industry
Demonstrated, enduring impact on the industry through design excellence, product innovation, or both
Widely recognized as an authority and leader in the industry
A strong advocate for the industry to the business community, consumers, and/or the general public
Developer of forward-thinking concepts and market-leading innovations that enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal
A leader in corporate citizenship or social responsibility, with a proven track record of leading by example
Supporter of charitable causes that have positively influenced industry professionals and elevated the industry’s public image
To be considered for recommendation, all nomination forms must be completed in full and include specific, detailed information supporting the nominee’s candidacy for this distinguished honor. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Each nomination must include two non-family references who can verify the submitted information. Pre-written or duplicated nominations completed by anyone other than the individual submitting and signing the form will be disqualified.
Selections are based strictly on the merit of the nominee. The number of nominations submitted or any relationship between the nominator and members of the Hall of Fame committee, board, or affiliated NKBA entities will not influence the selection process. Self-nominations are not permitted. Group nominations, such as those submitted by chapters, will be counted as a single submission.
This is an industry-wide recognition. Nominations may be submitted by and for any individual within the kitchen, bath, or home industry, regardless of NKBA membership status.
All nominations received by the published deadline will be reviewed by NKBA staff for completeness and eligibility. Qualified submissions will then be forwarded to the Hall of Fame Task Force for evaluation. The Task Force is responsible for thoroughly reviewing and vetting all applications before presenting its recommendations to the NKBA Board of Directors.
The Board will then review the Task Force’s recommendations and make the final decision regarding inductees. Once selections are confirmed, official letters of congratulations will be sent to the inductees. Individuals who submitted a nomination will receive formal notification of the outcome. Those whose nominees are not selected for induction at this time will be informed of the decision via email.
Nominations open September 8, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) and must be received by the NKBA by 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time), October 15, 2025. Forms received after this date will not be considered.
An approved nominee will be formally inducted into the NKBA Hall of Fame during the annual KBIS event. Inductees receive national recognition through multiple channels, including the NKBA | KBIS website (NKBA.org), Kitchen & Bath Business (KBB) Magazine, the official publication of NKBA | KBIS, and on-site at KBIS. Additional promotional exposure includes features across NKBA’s social media platforms and blog content. Each inductee is also honored with a dedicated placement in the Hall of Fame photo gallery, prominently displayed on NKBA.org.
In a culmination of its 60th anniversary celebrations, NKBA | KBIS conducted a bike/walk event to support Habitat for Humanity of Lehigh Valley.
#NKBA60for60 Bike Riders led by NKBA Global President & CEO Bill Darcy (Center).
By Dianne M. Pogoda
A sun-drenched late summer day in the bucolic Lehigh Valley of eastern Pennsylvania provided the ideal setting for an NKBA | KBIS bike ride and walk-a-thon to raise funds for the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity. About 14 riders and 23 walkers, including staffers and friends, participated in the event, which capped two years marking the 60th anniversaries of the founding of NKBA in 1963 and the first KBIS trade show in 1964.
The “60 For 60” celebrations kicked off at KBIS 2023 and continued through the ride/walk on Sept. 16, 2024. Bikers had the option of a 60-mile, 30-mile, or 12-mile route, while walkers tackled a 5K (3.1 mile) path. After participants reunited at the finish line, the team enjoyed a lunch reception afterward.
NKBA | KBIS Global President and CEO Bill Darcy praised the riders, walkers and his staff for their efforts. “I thank you all for accepting the challenge, and I hope this inspires you to ride some more!” Further, he thanked Habitat for Humanity partnering on the event and introduced Gina Loicono, Community Engagement and Grants Manager for the Lehigh Valley HFH.
“To see a national organization have such local impact with Habitat for Humanity in the Lehigh Valley is so significant for us,” Loicono said. “To see your vibrancy and your energy coming to Bethlehem, PA, to help us build local, we are incredibly thankful for that.”
NKBA moved its national headquarters to Bethlehem from Hackettstown, NJ, and held a “Carry the Keys” 45-mile bike ride from the old building to the new one in November 2022.
Loicono noted that low- to moderate-income families are struggling with rent, which, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, is just over $1,500 for a two-bedroom apartment in Lehigh and Northampton Counties.
“With our program and the support of community partnerships like yours, we are able to provide sometimes three- or four-bedroom homes with two full baths, with a zero-percent interest mortgage,” she said. “Right now, we are building four homes in Bethlehem that will house 23 children.”
She added, “When we think of home, we think of where we gather together as families, to rest, to celebrate our joys and mourn in our sorrows. One of the places we do that in a home is a kitchen. Whether you’re donating to Habitat, partnering with our ReStore, donating to an affiliate, you are part of something that builds dreams, not just homes.”
In 2018, the association partnered with Warren County (NJ) Habitat for Humanity on a home in Harmony, NJ. NKBA donated the winning kitchen and bathroom designs from its annual Student Design Competition, along with hours of labor from its staff and volunteer time from celebrity designers and NKBA members Jennifer Bertrand, AKBD, and Chip Wade, AKBD, to help during construction.
Darcy said he intends to continue efforts to support the local community in the Lehigh Valley.
Association Unveils New Initiative to Celebrate Industry Education.
NKBA Staff
As the fall 2024 semester progresses, NKBA | KBIS is excited to highlight our membership’s student and educator segment by introducing Education Appreciation Week, a new initiative running from September 23-27, 2024.
This special recognition period will feature a range of articles, social media interactions, and curated content designed to highlight NKBA resources, notable educational achievements, and new offerings. This content will provide all members with an inside look at the association’s support for students and educators.
Education is crucial for shaping the future of kitchen and bath professionals. NKBA | KBIS proudly supports students, schools, and educators across the United States and Canada through co-curricular programming and educational resources.
Available resources include:
Exclusive in-person and virtual events
Discounts on textbooks and materials
Free registration for KBIS
Scholarships and awards
Opportunities for local chapter participation
Access to the annual Student Design Competition sponsored by Fisher & Paykel
Thanks to the generosity of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, NKBA membership is free for students. Educators can also join NKBA at no cost.
Check back next week to visit our special landing page to explore all the special content and opportunities related to Education Appreciation Week 2024.
The widow of Herbert V. Kohler Jr. held several key posts for the plumbing giant and the Kohler Foundation’s philanthropic endeavors.
By Dianne M. Pogoda
Natalie Black Kohler, who served as general counsel and senior vice president of corporate communications of Kohler Co., led the Kohler Foundation, and sat on the company’s board of directors, died at her home in Oostburg, WI, on Sept.10. She was 74.
She will be remembered as a passionate and purposeful individual, devoted to her family, her dogs, and her husband, Herbert V. Kohler Jr., whom she married in 1988. Herbert passed away in 2022 at the age of 83. Natalie’s 33-year career at Kohler Co. included her role as general counsel, protecting the company’s legal interests worldwide, guiding Kohler through significant global expansion and unprecedented growth through a series of mergers and acquisitions, and ensuring its privately held status through a historic stock recapitalization.
As SVP of corporate communications, she established The Beacon, Kohler Co.’s state-of-the-art global communications headquarters — a modern architectural masterpiece serving as a brick-and-mortar culmination of her career-long passion for promoting and elevating the flagship label as an aspirational brand. Among her memorable achievements were the avant-garde As I See It advertising campaigns, a string of Most Remembered Exhibit Booth honors at KBIS, and the Kohler Design Center, a showcase of artistic products, breakthrough design ideas, and unique company history. Natalie and her husband were inducted into the Wisconsin Advertising Hall of Fame in 2019.
She served on the Kohler Co. board from 1987 to 2022, and as a member, then president, of the Kohler Foundation from 1998 to 2022.
Natalie Black was born on Dec. 19, 1949, in Bakersfield, CA, to Eugene and Ann Black. She received an A.B. degree in economics and mathematics from Stanford University in 1972 and graduated magna cum laude from Marquette University Law School in 1978. She was also a graduate of the Harvard Business School’s Program for Management Development in 1982. Natalie joined Kohler Co. in 1981 as a member of the Legal Department after working since 1978 as an attorney with the Milwaukee law firm of Quarles & Brady, specializing in securities and general corporate work.
In addition to her roles at Kohler Co., Natalie was active on numerous professional boards and organizations, including membership in the American, Wisconsin, and Sheboygan County Bar Associations; Chairman of the Committee on Corporate Law Departments for the Section on Business Law of the American Bar Association, and on the Board of Trustees for Marquette University from 1993 to 2013. She served on the board for Johnson Controls Inc. from 1998 to 2018; was a member of the policy advisory board of the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University since 1991; was on the board of trustees for the Medical College of Wisconsin from 1997 to 2009 and on boards of the Sheboygan County YMCA and The Milwaukee Ballet Company.
Known for her curiosity and many interests, Natalie was a passionate reader with a deep love of fiction and a dedication to female authors. Believing fundamentally in the power and importance of reading, Natalie started the Black Spring Foundation, a non-profit that focuses on literacy, education, hunger, and animal welfare. She gave generously to these causes, focusing much of her philanthropic efforts on Sheboygan County and providing substantial funding to the Sheboygan County Food Bank, Sheboygan County Humane Society, and Sheboygan Public Education Foundation. She will be remembered for her emphasis on the importance of giving back to one’s community by her step-grandchildren, whom she involved in her philanthropy from their young age.
In addition to her husband, Natalie was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Denise Gross; nephew Derek Rhodehouse; brother-in-law, Frederic Kohler, and sister-in-law Ruth DeYoung Kohler II. She is survived by her sister, Jennifer (Bill) Westbrook; niece Stacey Westbrook; two stepdaughters, Laura Kohler (Steve Proudman), and Rachel Kohler (Mark Hoplamazian), and stepson, David Kohler (Nina). She is further survived by 10 step-grandchildren, and three step-great-grandchildren.
A website celebrating Natalie’s life and accomplishments will be available soon.
A private service is being held with burial at Woodland Cemetery in Kohler. In lieu of flowers, donations in Natalie’s name can be made to Black Spring Foundation or the Sheboygan County Food Bank.
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) stands as a vital force in advancing education within design and its associated fields. Collaborating closely with colleges and universities, NKBA plays a crucial role in preparing students for thriving careers in the industry.
By becoming a part of the NKBA community, your school and its educators gain access to membership benefits tailored to enhance your institution’s visibility and support its educational endeavors. These benefits include:
The school’s logo featured on NKBA’s website.
The NKBA Affiliated School logo for your school’s website.
Membership in a local, professional NKBA Chapter.
The ability to form an NKBA Student Chapter on campus.
Specialized resources designed specifically for educators.
Engaging activities facilitating interaction and career development.
Regular communication and updates from NKBA.
Membership for schools within the NKBA network comes at no cost, with educators and receiving complimentary membership and access to an array of supplementary resources. Student memberships are also complimentary, thanks to the generous support of Sub-Zero Group, Inc.
Requirements for NKBA Affiliated Schools
One or more of the following qualifications: degree-granting, not-for-profit, accredited.
A faculty or staff member to serve as primary contact with NKBA.
Regular school verifications completed with NKBA as requested.
As the world’s leading trade association for the kitchen and bath industry, the NKBA is proud to support students as they prepare for careers in design and related fields. Students from any post secondary school are eligible to join the NKBA for free thanks to the generosity of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove. Membership includes access to numerous benefits including:
Discounts on educational resources
Access to scholarships
Eligibility to enter the NKBA Student Design Competition
Free webinars covering relevant topics in the industry
Access to the latest NKBA research reports
Participation in a local NKBA Chapter
A free expo pass for the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS)
Students must provide school information and proof of enrollment. Students do not need to be enrolled at an NKBA affiliated school to join.
The NKBA proudly supports kitchen and bath design programs through affiliated schools membership. With the NKBA’s assistance, affiliated schools can help their students prepare for employment in accordance with NKBA standards. The NKBA is a key player in promoting education in design and related fields, helping schools prepare thousands of students for lucrative careers in design and remodeling. Educators can equip their students for these roles by enhancing their curriculum with content and resources provided by the NKBA.
Although post-secondary students from any school are eligible to join the NKBA for free, school affiliation equips educators to provide the most comprehensive educational and co-curricular resources for their students. Educators from Affiliated Schools benefit from free NKBA membership, allowing them to take advantage of the following:
Access to NKBA curriculum including the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines and NKBA Badge programs content
Discounted access to the NKBA’s Knowledge Base resource
The ability to review and download the latest NKBA research reports
Interactive webinars for students and educators
Support to form an NKBA Student Chapter on campus
Discounted Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) registration for educators
Free KBIS expo passes for students
Access to exclusive opportunities including scholarships and design competitions
The school’s logo and profile featured on the NKBA website
Use of a “NKBA Affiliated School” graphic on the school’s website and marketing materials
NKBA affiliated school membership is available to high schools and post-secondary schools that meet certain eligibility requirements. Join Here or contact schools@nkba.org to learn more about eligibility and how this program can benefit students. Student membership is free thanks to the generous support of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove.
Student members are eligible to enter the NKBA’s annual Student Design Competition and many educators integrate this competition into their courses. Winners receive a complimentary ticket to KBIS, admission to the Kitchen & Bath Design + Industry Awards, hotel, airfare, and the following scholarship amounts:
First Place: $5,000
Second Place: $2,500
Third Place: $1,000
The Student Design Competition is generously sponsored by Fisher & Paykel with Chief Architect providing floor-plan specifications.
Students attending affiliated schools can form NKBA Student Chapters on their campuses. Student chapters are a great way for students to learn about the kitchen and bath industry through extracurricular activities. Partnerships with local NKBA professional chapters help students network, find mentors, and discover career opportunities. Access the Student Chapter Officer Leadership Guide here.
Thanks to support from Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, Student Chapters are able to receive an annual grant of up to $500 to help fund student chapter activities. To receive this grant, student chapters must fill out the Student Chapter Financial Activity Report on an annual basis.
Become an Affiliated School
By joining the NKBA, your school and its educators can take advantage of the benefits of membership!
High schools are welcome to join the NKBA as affiliated schools. Although their students are not eligible to join or form their own chapters, high school educators can still take advantage of the NKBA’s affiliated school resources.
Please email schools@nkba.org with any questions about NKBA Affiliated Schools.
As members of NKBA Student Chapters, students gain greater insight into their field of study and strengthen their foundational knowledge. Learning that occurs outside of the classroom helps students grow personally and professionally, as they develop skills like organization, time management, cooperation, and leadership.
Student chapters facilitate a variety of programs for the benefit of their members and campus communities. These events include guest speakers, field trips, social gatherings, and volunteer initiatives. Each student chapter is expected to collaborate with their professional chapter to hold at least one event per year. Extracurricular activities are a great way for students to supplement their classroom instruction, make valuable connections in the field, and discover the value of ongoing NKBA membership.
After receiving approval, a newly formed student chapter will receive a $500 grant thanks to the generosity of Sub-Zero Group, Inc. After becoming established, student chapters are eligible to receive a $500 grant annually. They must submit the Student Chapter Financial Activity report by October 31 each year to receive the funding.
View the most frequently asked questions regarding NKBA’s CKBD Certification.
Close up view of woman touching compotition of different materials in interior design with floor plans and plants around
No. Certification is a member benefit therefore this opportunity is exclusively for NKBA members.
Applying to the program is FREE. Candidates only receive a bill if they are approved.
Simply access the online application here and follow the prompts. Applicants can also save their progress and return to complete at a later date.
Applicants will be notified within 10 business days (minus holidays).
Once the candidate’s application has been approved they receive an automated email along with the invoice link to submit payment. They can also phone into our Member Service team as well.
Based on education and work experience criteria, the applicant will qualify under one of (3) candidate types. These include Allied Professional and two categories of Post-Secondary Education.To see which candidate type you qualify under, review the CKBD one-sheet here.
These applicants must provide a current NCIDQ certificate or Architect registration. They will be required to upload their current documentation within the application.
These applicants must provide proof of education by uploading a photocopy of their Master’s Bachelors, Associate Degree or Diploma as well as an educational transcript. They are also required to submit the work experience verification form attesting to a minimum of (2) years industry related of which (1) of those years full-time K&B design focused.
These applicants must provide proof of education by uploading a photocopy of their Certificate as well as an educational transcript. They are also required to submit the work experience verification form attesting to a minimum of (3) years industry related of which (2) of those years full-time K&B design focused. They will be required to complete an additional 30 NKBA education hours which is provided with purchase.
Yes. Applicants who earned a degree/diploma/certificate outside the US or Canada must submit a World Education Services form (WES.org).
Only candidates #2 and #3 will need to provide transcripts. They need to be uploaded directly within the online application.
The fillable PDF work verification form is available within the application. Applicants can also access here.
The work verification form has a section for self-employed members. This needs to be filled out by either a vendor, attorney or accountant.
Candidate #1 and #2 will owe $750 whereas candidate #3 will owe $1150. The price difference is to cover the additional 30 NKBA education hours.
Yes. There is a section prompt on the application dedicated to these candidates. They will enter the program as candidate #3 unless they have the required educational background outlined under candidate #2.
Regardless of the track the applicant qualifies under, each purchase provides everything necessary for the applicant to complete the program. Suggestions to enhance your professional toolkit are made throughout the study program and coursework however, they are merely suggestions and do not need to be purchased to successfully earn the NKBA’s CKBD Certification.
Yes. The NKBA no longer supports a program structure dedicated to earning the CKD and CBD appellations. The examination process will be the same for all candidates.
If members purchased a CKBD Bundle between 2020-2022 they will be granted a credit toward the purchase of the new program. They will still need to complete the online application.
No. This new structure does not affect any NKBA member who currently holds a CKBD certification.
No. Everything necessary to complete the program is provided in the purchase price.
Yes. To avoid accounting delays the pending invoice will become null and void after 120 days. The candidate must resubmit their application.
Applicants have one full year to complete both the Fundamental Exam and Portfolio Evaluation from the time we receive payment.
The (4) hour timed, Fundamental Exam consists of 200 true/false, multiple choice, scenario based questions derived directly from the NKBA’s 4th Edition K&B Planning Guidelines. The Fundamental Exam needs to be completed during the Spring Period deadline of (April) and during the Fall Period deadline of (October).
The Portfolio Evaluation must consist of the designer’s own work and will include one kitchen and one bath project. The Portfolio Evaluation needs to be submitted during the Spring Period deadline of (May) and during the Fall Period deadline of (November).
Both the Fundamentals Exam and Portfolio Evaluation results will be provided by email within 4-6 weeks after completion. The fundamental exam results will be provided with a sliding scale report for each K&B Planning Guidelines section. The participant can gauge where they require additional study time and also areas where they excel. The portfolio evaluation results will be provided by email with a pass/did not pass result from the juror committee.
No.As long as they are both completed in one-year from purchase there is no particular order in which they need to be completed/submitted.
Candidates will have access to our new Learning Management System (LMS) called Learn Dash. This platform contains everything necessary to successfully complete the program.
No. The members NKBA account and Learn Dash account are completely separate platforms and will have separate login credentials.
No. The Certification Pathway is a fully online program accessible within the Learn Dash platform.Both the fundamental exam and portfolio exam can be completed online at the candidates convenience.
No. All the coursework, study material, practice exams, additional resources and exams will be completed online only.
Only candidates #3 are required to complete the additional 30 NKBA education hours and attend office hours throughout the year. Candidates will receive a schedule with available dates.
No. The candidate must be the designer of record and provide their own projects. However, the timing of designs is not a factor and can be both current or previous projects. If the candidate has designs from a previous employer they must provide a formal letter releasing the designs from that employer.
Candidates who do not successfully complete or pass the fundamental exam will be charged a $300 retake fee to retest.
Candidates who do not successfully complete or pass the portfolio exam will be charged a $400 retake fee to resubmit.
Yes. If the candidate does not complete the program within the designated one-year timeframe they need to submit an extension request form along with the extension fee of $100 (US dollars). Once approved the applicant will have an additional for (6) months to complete the program.
Certified NKBA members need to submit an annual $100 certification fee as well as maintain active NKBA membership. The certification fee is in addition to the annual membership dues.
Yes. All Certified members must self-report 20 hours or (2.0) CEUs during the two-year CEU cycle.
Community platforms and additional resources are available to CKBD candidates however, the NKBA recommends that candidates check with their local chapter for more guidance and support.
No. Currently the NKBA is not awarding CEUs for completion of the program.
NKBA | KBIS
2026 Chapter Star Awards Program
Recognize Your Chapter or an Outstanding Chapter Officer by nominating them for a 2026 Chapter Star Award!
Our volunteers work hard for their chapters and the NKBA is excited to be able to recognize the chapters and individual volunteers that have made a difference in 2025!
Please take the time to enter your chapter or an outstanding officer so these special events and extraordinary people can be recognized and rewarded! Applications are open from October 1 through November 7, 2025.
The winners will be announced at Leader2Leader on February 16, 2026.
We are excited to recognize outstanding achievements in the following categories:
Chapter Categories ($1,500 Prize)
*Submissions can be for in-person or virtual events
Best Chapter Overall Event – this event is amazing, creative, fun, distinctive, one-of-a-kind.
Best Chapter Membership Campaign – an event focused on increasing membership.
Best Chapter Community Initiative – an event to assist a chapter or a local cause/effort.
Best Chapter Collaboration – This award is for two or more chapters that co-produced a special event.
Best Chapter Design Competition – an event or gala showcasing the talents of local designers.
Best Chapter Student-Focused Event – chapter event that is specifically planned for local students.
Best Chapter NKBA Spirit Award – in support of NKBA initiatives/events (i.e. KBIS Recap, local Thirty Under 30, local Hall of Fame, Celebrate Kitchen and Bath Month, Learning/Certification events).
Fabuwood Acquires Plain & Fancy: Fabuwood, a leading semi-custom cabinetry company based in Newark, NJ, has acquired Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry, a luxury handcrafted cabinet maker in Schaefferstown, PA. Plain & Fancy, founded by the Achey family in 1968, will remain a luxury brand and retain its name and fully custom offerings, operating under the Fabuwood corporate umbrella. P&F president George “Butch” Achey, son of founder John Achey, will continue in his role. Select Fabuwood dealer showrooms will have access to P&F’s high-end portfolio, and Fabuwood will use its operational and technological expertise to support P&F, including helping to cut lead times. More info here.
Moen Joins Florida Conservation Testing: Plumbing giant Moen is partnering with Rebuilding Together Miami-Dade Inc., to install Moen Flo Smart water monitors and shut-off devices in 200 Miami-Dade County homes. Rebuild Together is a non-profit group that helps impoverished communities and those impacted by natural disasters to rebuild. The project aims to prevent water leaks, lower residential water bills, reduce water-damage claims, and conserve water. The four-month project will evaluate the impact of the devices on water flow and costs, and demonstrate how the technology saves water, money and reduces damage. CE Pro has more.
Image courtesy of Getty Images.
Calling Industry Experts: NKBA Is accepting proposals for the 2025 Design & Business Webinar Series, a program dedicated to exploring the dynamic world of residential design on a global scale. This unique series will bring together leading designers, industry partners, and thought leaders to share insights, spark conversations, and inspire innovation. Presenters raise their industry profile and network with other professionals through this global platform. Subject Matter Experts are invited to submit a proposal for a webinar highlighting key topics, learning objectives, and takeaways. Proposals are due by Sept. 30. For more info and to submit ideas, click here.
Endeavor Buys SGC Building Brands: Endeavor Business Media has acquired the building and construction-related events and media platforms of Scranton Gillette Communications. Included in the deal are the ProBuilder Show Village, Women in Residential+Commercial Construction Conference, The Pro+Connect hosted buyer series, and media brands including Professional Builder, ProRemodeler, and Building Design+Construction. The acquisition nearly doubles the size of Endeavor’s buildings and construction group, according to Endeavor CEO Chris Ferrell. ProRemodeler has more.
Wendy Glaister Named HGTV Finalist: NKBA member Wendy Glaister, an award-winning designer and president/founder of Wendy Glaister Interiors in Modesto, CA, has been named a finalist for HGTV’s Designer of the Year honor. Glaister, a member of NKBA’s San Joaquin Valley Chapter, is a contender in the category “Outdoor Oasis,” for her four-seasons design concept. Live voting for this prestigious honor is on until Sept. 26 at HGTV. KBB has more.
Chapter Update
Mix and Mingle in Minnesota: Join the Minnesota State Chapter for its final Happy Hour of the year on Sept. 26 at the Full Tilt Tavern, 8301 Normandale Boulevard in Bloomington. It’s a great opportunity to collaborate, network with new colleagues, and catch up with old friends. Members are $20, non-members are $40, and students are free. Learn more and register here.
Industry News
Houzz Study Shows Pets Are Priorities: Pets are family — and a recent Houzz study confirms that they play a major role in home renovations. The 2024 U.S. Houzz Pets & the Home Study of more than 1,000 respondents found that 48 percent prioritize pets in their decisions when remodeling. Main considerations include pet-friendly flooring, products and materials (34 percent) and specific designs or functionality for pets, including built-in areas for bedding and feeding or grooming stations. More at houzz.com.
