The Premier Conference of the Stair Industry!
Network, Learn, Celebrate, and Exhibit!
Finding our Groove – Elevating Stairbuilding
Join us in Kansas City as we find our groove together, connecting, learning, and elevating stairbuilding through innovation, collaboration, and leadership. This year’s conference brings a dynamic mix of education, networking, and unforgettable Kansas City experiences.
What’s in Store for You
Inspiring Keynotes
Hear from industry leaders on topics that shape your business including hospitality in the age of automation.
Interactive Breakout Sessions
Learn from your peers through dynamic learning sessions, interactive discussions, and live demonstrations of on-the-road shops with vans and trailers on display.
Thought-Provoking Discussions
Explore key topics like customer service today, effective communication, and Train Wrecks. These real-world scenarios focus on conflict resolution and turning challenges into growth opportunities. You are the one variable you can always change.
Kansas City Fun
Think BBQ, bourbon, and jazz. Kansas City knows how to do hospitality right.
Opening Day – Thursday, April 30
Kick off the conference with a full day of activities for all interests.
SMA Golf Tournament
Network on the green with fellow members. The tournament is perfect for golfers of every skill level.
Kansas City Mob Tour
Not a golfer? Explore Kansas City’s history with this classic local tour.
Evening Events
Welcome Reception
Mix and mingle with SMA exhibitors and industry peers.
SMA Auction
Bid on great items while supporting the future of the stairbuilding industry.
StairCraft Awards Reception and Banquet
Celebrate excellence at the 18th Annual StairCraft Awards and honor this year’s winners.
Keynotes, Sessions and Workshops
Keynote Speaker Jesse Mogel
“The Last Handshake: Keeping Hospitality Human in the Age of Automation”
With nearly 30 years in hospitality, Jesse shows us how to elevate customer service beyond tasks and create genuine human connections even in a world increasingly driven by AI and automation.
How We Did It Presentations
Hear from our 2025 StairCraft Award winners as they share the challenges, successes, and innovative solutions behind their award-winning projects.
Workshops and Breakouts Include
Train Wrecks – Real-world scenarios focused on conflict resolution and turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
Demonstrations – Walk-thru on-the-road shops with a van and trailer on display.
Interactive Session – Test your teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills in an engaging, hands-on experience.
Find your groove in Kansas City at the 2026 SMA Annual Conference, an experience you will not want to miss.
We look forward to seeing you in April.
Find your groove in vibrant Kansas City, where BBQ, Jazz, and Stairs come together for an unforgettable conference experience. Connect, learn, and elevate your craft alongside industry leaders.
Annual Conference Pricing
Early
(purchase by February 9th)
Member: $659
Non-Member: $859
Advanced
(purchase by March 9th)
Member: $759
Non-Member: $959
Late
(purchase after March 9th)
Member: $829
Non-Member: $1,019
Spouse/Companion
(purchase by April 16th)
Full-Conference: $479
Banquets Only: $299
Exhibits Only
(purchase by April 16th)
Member: $299
Non-Member: $299
Full Conference Registration:
- Includes admission to Exhibition Hall
- Keynote Presentation by Jesse Mogel
- Breakout Sessions
- StairCraft Awards Banquet and Reception
- Annual Auction supporting Testing and Research Initiatives
Annual Conference Exhibitor Pricing
Exhibitor Package Includes:
- Full conference registration for 1 attendee and discounted additional guest registrations
- One 6′ draped table, additional table only $300
- FREE conference program full-page advertisement
- 3-minute presentation to conference attendees at Breakfast on Friday with the “5 Things to Know”
Early Exhibitor
(purchase by February 9th)
Member: $919
Guest: $579
Non-Member: $1,229
Guest: $779
Advance Exhibitor
(purchase by March 9th)
Member: $1,019
Guest: $679
Non-Member: $1,359
Guest: $919
Late Exhibit
(purchase after March 9th)
Member: $1,229
Guests: $779
Non-Member: $1,589
Guest: $969


