Agenda

Sunday, March 16

Monday, March 17

  • 2025-03-17
    7:00am - 12:00pm
    Registration
  • 2025-03-17
    8:00am - 9:15am
    Opening Breakfast

    The day kicks off with a plated breakfast program featuring NAEC President Bill McGrath, who will deliver the "State of the Association" address. You will enjoy a delicious breakfast while hearing McGrath outline the association's key achievements over the past year, current initiatives, and future goals. He will share valuable insights into the direction of the NAEC, highlighting strategic plans, industry trends, and opportunities for members to engage and grow within the elevator industry. This event promises to set an inspiring tone for the day.

  • 2025-03-17
    8:45am - 9:45am
    Education Session: Safety First: Unpacking the 2025 Safety Handbook

    Description: During the NAEC Spring Education Conference, NAEC and NEII will present an in-depth look at the updated 2025 Elevator World Field Employee Safety Handbook. NAEC’s David Smarte and NEII’s Dot Mynahan will highlight key updates, including new sections on silica safety and re-roping checklists, aligned with OSHA Alliance standards.

    Speakers: Dot Mynahan, National Elevator Industry Inc (NEII)
                      David Smarte, National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC) 

    Dot Mynahan is the Senior Director of Safety and Workforce Development for the National Elevator Industry, Inc. (NEII). Dot focuses on policies and protocols that help prevent rider and worker incidents and injuries, improve safety codes, create comprehensive safety resources, and develop safe workplace best practices. Prior to joining NEII, Dot worked for Otis Elevator for 33 years before retiring as the Executive Director of Field Operations for the Americas in December, 2023.

    David Smarte is the Global Education and Safety Officer for NAEC. He previously served on the NAEC Board of Directors, and was most recently Chair of the NAEC Education & Safety Committee. He had previously served as the Director of Safety and Education for Delaware Elevator. David is a licensed Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI) and holds a Certified Elevator Technician (CET) and Certified Accessibility and Residential Technician (CAT) Certifications.  Mr. Smarte has over 40 years in the elevator industry and 18 of these years he concentrated on Safety and Training and Special Projects.

  • 2025-03-17
    8:45am - 9:45am
    Education Session: Upping Your LinkedIn Game

    Description: Learn how to transform your LinkedIn profile into a powerful tool for building relationships and attracting opportunities. In this interactive session with live examples, you’ll discover how to optimize your profile, grow your network and increase engagement through strategic posting. You’ll walk away with actionable tips to elevate your LinkedIn presence—whether you’re a LinkedIn pro or just getting started.

    Speaker: Alyssa Gelbard, Point Road Group

    Alyssa Gelbard is the Founder and CEO of Point Road Group, an employee and executive branding firm that helps companies accelerate growth through their most powerful asset – their people. Additionally, Point Road Group helps executives land a job or board seat with strategic personal branding.

    Alyssa advises CEOs, leadership teams and board directors on brand strategy, employee branding and human capital, aligning these elements with business strategy to drive credibility, trust and revenue growth.

    An expert and frequent speaker on executive and employee branding and board search readiness, Alyssa is a strong advocate for getting more women into the C-suite and boardroom and is proud to have built a company led by women. Her unique perspective stems from a background in strategic marketing, branding and communications, where she held leadership roles in the biomedical research, technology and sports & entertainment industries, contributing to growth at organizations including Rockefeller University, Quidnunc and the National Hockey League.

    Alyssa serves on the Board of Directors of Financial Executives International and the Advisory Board of the Graduate Sports Leadership Program at Endicott College. She is Co-President of the Private Directors Association NY Metro Chapter and an elected member of the Tufts University Alumni Council, serving on the Finance Committee. She is also Co-Chair of the Tufts Women's Network in New York.

    Alyssa has an MBA in Marketing from NYU Stern School of Business, a BA in Sociology from Tufts University and a Certificate in Private Company Governance from the Private Directors Association. She is also a member of Vistage.

  • 2025-03-17
    10:00am - 11:00am
    Education • Safety Hazards Associated with Existing Home Elevators, Rectification and Risks

    Description: Presentation will discuss many common safety hazards that can be present on existing home elevators, recommendations on rectifying hazards and the appropriate approach to the customer for discussion and approval, and the risks of overlooking these hazards and continuing to perform service work on the elevator with hazards present.

    Speakers: Chris Harris & Justin Hansen, A + Elevators & Lifts

    Chris Harris began his career in the elevator industry in 2000, working for an accessibility, residential and commercial elevator contractor. Working his way through the ranks over the years, he has worked as a new construction mechanic, modernization, service mechanic, manager, and Director of Research and Development and Engineering for their manufacturing operations. In 2010, Chris opened A+ Elevators & Lifts, an accessibility, residential, commercial, and industrial elevator contractor, which today, operates in six states, and includes high-end custom residential cab and commercial interior manufacturing. Chris is currently CET-S and CAT-S certified, and dual-QEI certified through NAEC and NAESA. Chris currently serves the NAEC as a member of Accessibility & Residential Committee.

    Justin Hansen began his career in the elevator industry with A+ Elevators & Lifts in 2015. Justin serves as VP of Field Operations for A+. Justin currently serves NAEC as a member of the Education & Safety Committee, chairman of Accessibility & Residential Committee and member of NexGen.

  • 2025-03-17
    10:00am - 11:00am
    Education: Elevator Emergency Multi-Media Communication:  What You Actually Need to Know

    Description: During the NAEC Spring Education Conference, NAEC and NEII will present an in-depth look at the updated 2025 Elevator World Field Employee Safety Handbook. NAEC’s David Smarte and NEII’s Dot Mynahan will highlight key updates, including new sections on silica safety and re-roping checklists, aligned with OSHA Alliance standards.

    Speaker: Mark Yako, Wurtec, Incorporated 

    Mark Yako has been in the elevator industry since 1984, starting as a helper for Otis Elevator.  Transitioning to sales in 1990 he gained experience as both a contractor and vendor representative with each an increase in responsibilities.  Prior to joining Wurtec in October of 2020, he was with GAL Manufacturing for over 10 years representing the company primarily in the Northeast USA and at national events and conferences.  He also spent three years as Northeast US Sales Manager for Draka. In his current role Mark represents Wurtec’s full product line and development of key accounts.

  • 2025-03-17
    12:00pm - 6:00pm
    Official Golf Tournament

Tuesday, March 18

  • 2025-03-18
    7:30am - 12:00pm
    Registration
  • 2025-03-18
    8:30am - 9:30am
    Education Session: Turning Diversity into Business Dollars-Why Diversity Wins Every time!

    Description: Participants will be introduced to the best practices companies are utilizing to hire, retain, and build a sustainable diverse and inclusive work culture. Attendees will participate in the session through role playing exercises and evaluating business case studies.

    Speaker: Vong Keovongsa 

    Vong Keovongsa, MSHM, has been working in the field of human resources for over 25 years. Vong works closely with business leaders to provide guidance on tale nt recruitment, human resources, change management, leadership effectiveness, and organizational development. Vong graduated with an MS in Human Resources Management from Villanova University and an MBA from Tampa College. Vong started in the vertical transportation with ThyssenKrupp elevator in 2009 and has also held senior HR roles with Oracle Elevator and Madden Elevator. Today, Vong runs Elevator Services Group, a company he co-founded with Susie Madden. The company provides recruitment and human resource solutions for the elevator industry.

  • 2025-03-18
    9:45am - 10:45am
    Education Session: Elevators and Architects: Effective Practices for Stronger Partnerships & Better Projects

    Description: Architects play a pivotal role in determining the success of elevator integration in building projects, yet many in the vertical transportation industry struggle to connect and collaborate effectively with them. This presentation will equip professionals from the elevator industry—including consultants, manufacturers, sales representatives, and management—with the tools and insights needed to strengthen relationships with architectural firms and get their products specified.

     Speaker: Brittany Brothers, LiftLogic Advising  

     Brittany Brothers is the founder of LiftLogic Advising, an advising company dedicated to helping the elevator industry better meet the needs of its consumers. With 14 years of experience spanning roles as an elevator contractor, supplier, trainer, and her current position as an architectural elevator liaison, Brittany brings a well-rounded and insightful perspective to her work.

    As a frequent speaker at NAEC events, Brittany is known for delivering well- researched and engaging presentations that resonate with her audience. Her commitment to advancing the industry is evident through her active involvement on three NAEC committees, where she collaborates with peers to drive innovation and best practices.

    Brittany’s expertise extends beyond the elevator industry. As an active presenter for the American Institute of Architects (AIA), she bridges the gap between architects and the elevator sector promoting resourceful collaboration. Her knowledge and strategic insight make her an invaluable speaker for professionals looking to strengthen partnerships across industries.

  • 2025-03-18
    9:45am - 10:45am
    Education Session: Safety on the Job for Field & Sales Team Members

    Description: Safety is a cornerstone of our industry, ensuring the well-being of both customers and employees. This course emphasizes the importance of safety for field mechanics and sales staff, focusing on best practices when visiting job sites and planning work. It also highlights how safety aligns with our Forward messaging to protect everyone involved.

    Speaker: Craig Jones, Country Home Elevator   

    Craig Jones is one of the most requested presenters of Accessibility and Residential topics. With 30 years in the Elevator Trade, he has seen most of the safety problems firsthand. As a member of the Missouri Elevator Safety Board and Previous NAEC Board Member, Craig is vested in the trade, learning and creating the next generation of Safety leaders.

  • 2025-03-18
    11:00am - 12:00pm
    Education Session: Informed Decision-Making: Aligning Your Business with Industry Standards

    Description: Discover how to optimize your elevator business's financial strategy by setting up effective Charts of Accounts (COAs). This session will guide you on aligning your financial structure to industry standards, enabling you to compare your financial performance with elevator industry norms. Gain valuable insights to make informed decisions that drive growth and sustainability in your business.

    Speaker: Sean Madden 

    Sean Madden is currently the Innovation Manager at Southern Elevator Company and the founder of Elevator Strategic Hub. Prior to joining Southern Elevator Company, he was the founder and CEO of Madden Elevator Company. Following in his father’s footsteps, Sean has spent over 30 years in the elevator industry in a variety of roles, eventually leading him to starting his own company with his wife Susie in 2010. They started in his basement with zero capital, no customers, no income; but a dream to run and grow a respectful, dependable, reliable quality elevator company. Sean has a passion for helping people to reach their full potential and educating the Elevator Industry on ways to utilize technology that can augment the quality of service provided on elevators; ultimately making them safer and more reliable for the riding public. 

  • 2025-03-18
    1:15pm - 2:15pm
    Education Session: Evolving Elevator Technologies: Emergency Communications

    Description: The transformation of communication technologies has created a significant impact on how we interact with each other. Especially in the commercial space, the telecommunications industry now has new contenders. In this regard, transitioning from Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) to these newer options, and with the addition of elevator code ASME 2019, can present some challenges. In this session, we will examine the shifts occurring in the telecom industry and explore existing options.

    Speaker: Don Holloway, Kings III Emergency Communications 

    Don Holloway has been with Kings III Emergency Communications for 12 years, but in the elevator trade for over 20 plus. During that time, he has worked as a mechanic, service manager, inspector, and consultant. He carries a QEI with NAESA and CET/CETS with NAEC in addition to 30 other state licenses across the country. Don also sits on the Electrical Code Committee with ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers). Also, since codes vary in their use and their adoption, he works closely with local jurisdictions to ensure compliance. 

  • 2025-03-18
    1:15pm - 2:15pm
    Education Session: The US Government – A “Must-Have” customer

    Description: Imagine a customer who offers a steady stream of projects, pays reliably, provides clear requirements-upfront, and avoids last-minute changes—this is the US Government, the world’s largest and most dependable customer. In this session, it will be explained why working with the US Government is essential for independent elevator contractors. Travis will also share insights and lessons learned from your industry peers about succeeding in government contracting. 

    Speaker: Travis Hall, Alliance Elevator

    Travis Hall has worked with Alliance Elevator Solutions (AES) as General Manager / Partner for 13 years. During that time, he took AES from a concept to a nationwide brand. He has also spearheaded engineering and product development of hydraulic and MRL traction product lines; created training seminars which were approved by the National Association of Elevator Contractors for CET credits; and built an AIA course, which was approved in 2017. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from The Pennsylvania State University; a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Bellevue University; and an Associate of Science degree in Aerospace Maintenance Technology from Community College of the Air Force.

  • 2025-03-18
    2:30pm - 4:00pm
    Women in Motion Event: Leadership in Motion: The Art of Effective Management

    Description: Join a dynamic panel of highly successful entrepreneurs and leaders in the vertical transportation industry as the share insights, strategies, and real-world experiences on effective management and leadership. This engaging discussion will explore building trust, navigating challenges, fostering resilience, and creating a thriving team culture. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable takeaways to elevate your leadership journey!

    Moderator:

    Amy DiPaolo (American Elevator Group)

    Pannelists: 

    Lisa Diaz (Turf Advisory)  is an accomplished leader in construction innovation, sustainable infrastructure, and emerging technologies, with a career spanning nearly three decades across global finance, strategic leadership, and urban development. She is the Founder and Managing Partner of Turf Advisory, a premier growth advisory and venture capital firm dedicated to accelerating the adoption of next-generation construction technologies. Under her leadership, Turf Advisory has guided technology innovators through strategic growth initiatives, from go-to-market execution to capital raising and business development. 

    Dot Mynahan (National Elevator Industry Inc (NEII)) is the Senior Director of Safety and Workforce Development for the National Elevator Industry, Inc. (NEII). Dot focuses on policies and protocols that help prevent rider and worker incidents and injuries, improve safety codes, create comprehensive safety resources, and develop safe workplace best practices. Prior to joining NEII, Dot worked for Otis Elevator for 33 years before retiring as the Executive Director of Field Operations for the Americas in December, 2023.

    Pete Meeks (Delaware Elevator) is the owner of Delaware Elevator, Inc., the largest family-owned, fourth-generation elevator contractor in the United States. He also oversees several affiliated companies, including DEM (Design, Engineer, Manufacture) Elevating Equipment, IDEC Elevator Products, and Chesapeake Drilling Corporation, and is a part-owner of Alliance Elevator Solutions. A respected leader in the elevator industry, Pete served two terms as President of the National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC) Board of Directors. A third-generation elevator mechanic, his career began in high school when he worked alongside his father in the field. In the early 1980s, Pete became the owner of Delaware Elevator, which at the time employed just eight people. Under his leadership, Delaware Elevator has experienced substantial growth, with locations now spanning from Wilmington, DE, to Tavernier, FL, and a workforce of over 550 employees. His team is honored to have contributed to numerous high-profile projects, including work at The Washington Monument, The Lincoln Memorial, U.S. Embassies worldwide, and several Smithsonian Institution projects. Pete credits the company’s overwhelming success to the dedication and talent of his team members and staff. He takes pride in the fact that all three of his daughters—Kaitlind, Lindsay, and Charley—along with many second-generation employees, are actively involved in the family business. With a continued focus on safety, quality, and innovation, Pete is committed to expanding Delaware Elevator’s legacy and ensuring its ongoing success for many years to come.

     

  • 2025-03-18
    5:30pm - 6:30pm
    Tuesday Night Reception

    Join us for a relaxed and informal reception in the Savannah Foyer, where you can unwind and connect with fellow members. This casual gathering provides the perfect opportunity to meet colleagues before heading out to explore beautiful Hilton Head Island. Be sure to visit the nearby Shelter Cove Marina & Towne Center, a vibrant hub offering waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and scenic marina views. This reception is the ideal starting point for an enjoyable evening on the island.

  • 2025-06-18
    8:30am - 9:30am
    Education Session: AI Troubleshooting in the Field

    Description: In this session, we'll explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the elevator industry. We'll start by reflecting on how past innovations, like the internet and smartphones, transformed our world and how AI is on a similar trajectory. From smart elevator systems to advanced troubleshooting and predictive maintenance, AI is making elevators safer and more efficient. Learn about real-world applications, including custom AI models like ChatGPT, and discover how these tools can optimize your operations, improve customer service, and reduce downtime. This session will also cover how to integrate AI into existing elevator systems and the future trends shaping the industry.

    Speakers: Ben Smith & Rodney Pearcy, Summit Elevator 

    Ben Smith a proud third-generation elevator mechanic hailing from the Southeast United States. With 12 years of hands-on experience in the field, Ben has developed a deep expertise in elevator installation, maintenance, and modernization, carrying forward a family legacy of excellence in vertical transportation. Passionate about advancing technology in the industry, Ben combines traditional know-how with a forward-thinking approach to tackle modern challenges. When not working in the field, Ben enjoys sharing knowledge and fostering connections within the elevator community.

    Rodney Pearcy brings over 30 years of expertise in the elevator industry, with a focus on maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, modernization, and construction. Combining his extensive experience with a passion for technology, he is dedicated to helping professionals, businesses, and technicians adapt to the evolving world of elevator technology, including IoT integration, predictive maintenance, and real-time system monitoring.

  • 2025-09-18
    11:00am - 12:00pm
    Education Session: Where the Cable Meets the Cast Iron

    Description: In this presentation we will dive into the details for some of the most consequential factors that lead to hoist rope and drive sheave wear. We will touch on basic metallurgy, groove profile considerations, hoist rope characteristics, and perhaps most importantly, sheave diameter’s impact on system wear.

    Speakers: Carlos Escobar & Peter McIntosh, Hyperion Solutions 

    Carlos Escobar is a Technical Solutions Consultant for Hyperion Solutions. Prior to that, Carlos was the second-generation owner and president of Titan Machine Corporation, a geared traction machine manufacturer, sheave supplier, worm & gear producer, and machine shop based in New York City. He led Titan Machine through the 2022 acquisition by Hyperion.

    Having been raised in the elevator industry, Carlos has a career that spans nearly three decades into the mid-90’s. He has honed his balanced expertise through the management of production operations for new geared traction machines, while simultaneously convening on-demand mechanical evaluations of repair and refurbishment projects for marquis projects nationwide.

    Peter McIntosh is the Director of Business Development for Technical Services at Hyperion Solutions. With over 18 years of hands-on experience in the field and motor shop, the former co-owner of McIntosh Industries specializes in complex system diagnostics and analyzing the value proposition for retention versus replacement of legacy equipment.

    A popular speaker for elevator associations, contractors, and consulting firms nationwide, Pete discusses evolving elevator technology, maintenance strategies, and industry trends. He is known for the ability to translate technical concepts into accessible language, bridging the gap between experts and decision-makers. Pete's insights on maximizing system lifespan and efficiency continue to influence industry best practices.

Wednesday, March 19

  • 2025-03-19
    7:30am - 9:00am
    Women in Motion Breakfast

  • 2025-03-19
    8:00am - 12:00pm
    Registration
  • 2025-03-19
    9:00am - 10:00am
    Education Session: Grounded Leadership: Prioritizing What Matters and Building a Future of Impact

    Description: What does it truly mean to lead with purpose while staying grounded in what matters most? In this transformative session, Lisa Diaz—entrepreneur, 4th-generation working mother, breast cancer survivor, and former Goldman Sachs leader—shares a compelling journey of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of prioritizing what truly defines us.

    Speaker: Lisa Diaz, Turf Advisory 

    Lisa Diaz is an accomplished leader in construction innovation, sustainable infrastructure, and emerging technologies, with a career spanning nearly three decades across global finance, strategic leadership, and urban development. She is the Founder and Managing Partner of Turf Advisory, a premier growth advisory and venture capital firm dedicated to accelerating the adoption of next-generation construction technologies. Under her leadership, Turf Advisory has guided technology innovators through strategic growth initiatives, from go-to-market execution to capital raising and business development.

  • 2025-03-19
    9:00am - 10:00am
    Education Session: Understanding Automatic Door Operation in Residential Elevators

    Description: This session explores the role of automatic door operation in residential elevators, highlighting its critical impact on safety, including compliance with ASME A17.1 Part 5.3 and the reduction of gap requirements. Attendees will gain insights into market trends, advancements in door technology, and practical considerations that position automatic doors as a safer, more reliable choice for modern residential elevators.

    Speaker: Walter Barnes, Electronic Controls Inc. 

    Walter Barnes, co-founded Electronic Controls Inc. (ECI), alongside his father in 1983 as an electronics repair facility in Miami. Initially focused on servicing elevator control boards in South Florida, ECI expanded its operations nationwide and became a prominent player in the elevator industry. Walter assumed leadership in 1998 and relocated the company to Cape Canaveral while opening offices in Los Alamitos (ECI West) and acquiring Denver Elevator Systems. Under Walter's guidance, ECI diversified its offerings, developing proprietary products such as door operators, LCD door boards, CabLite® LED lighting, auto light controls, MerLite® emergency battery backup, cartop stations, and PitSafe® safety systems. Walter's expertise and dedication have led to numerous presentations and speaking engagements at both state and national levels, establishing him as an innovative and respected figure within the elevator industry.

  • 2025-03-19
    10:30am - 11:30am
    Education Session: The Effect the NEC Changes have on the Elevator Code

    Description: This course provides an in-depth exploration of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and its evolving relationship with elevator safety and performance standards. Participants will gain insight into the progression of the NEC, its influence on elevator codes, and significant changes introduced in recent years. Designed for professionals in the elevator and accessibility industries, this session highlights critical updates and their practical implications, ensuring attendees are well-equipped to navigate and apply these developments in their work.

    Speakers: Daniel Newlin & Clif Frazier, Elevated. 

    Daniel Newlin 

      • 28 years of experience in the Elevator Industry.
      • Current role: National Education and Training Manager for Elevated.
      • Former role: Operations Manager for Baltimore and Eastern Shore.
      • Certifications:
        • OSHA Construction Safety and Health (#14-000107835, valid through 8/27/2024)
        • First Aid & CPR Instructor
        • QEI Inspector (#C-4713, valid through 12/31/2023)
        • CET-S (valid through 12/31/2023)
      • State Licenses:
        • Delaware: T1-E003394
        • Maryland: 1086
        • Virginia: 2718044139
        • Washington, D.C.: ELM1300304
        • New Jersey: 17EM00140200
        • Florida: CC45

    Clif Frazier 

  • 2025-03-19
    10:30am - 11:30am
    NexGen Brunch & Learn

    Keynote Speaker: John Curzon

    Session: Why Your Brand Matters

    This session takes a light-hearted, insightful dive into the world of brand-building, drawing on examples of the very best (and worst) brand identities from a variety of sources. John will offer his top tips to help you strengthen your business identity, while highlighting the pitfalls you might encounter along the way. In the words of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos: “Your brand is what other people say about you when you’re not in the room”. So be sure not to miss out on this one – it matters!

    John Curzon is a forward-thinking, creative marketer who has been successful in developing several businesses across North America, Europe and Asia.
    Even if you don’t know John, you may be familiar with his work. Over the years, he has made a tremendous impact on a number of well-known industry businesses, transforming the way they represent themselves and designing how they connect with their audiences.

    John thrives on the challenge of bringing out the very best in an organization and its people — helping create consistent business value every step of the way.

  • 2025-03-19
    11:30am - 6:00pm
    No Frills Golf Tournament

  • 2025-03-19
    7:00pm - 9:00pm
    Dregs Party

    The 2025 NAEC Spring Educational Conference concludes with the lively Dregs Party in the Grand Ocean Terrace, offering breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Atlantic. As the sun sets, we’ll celebrate the end of a successful conference in style, with delicious fare, refreshing drinks, and music to set the mood. The backdrop of the endless horizon creates an unforgettable ambiance, making this the perfect finale to an inspiring week, allowing you to unwind, reflect, and say farewell until next time.