2025 Annual Conference

April 10-12, 2025

The Premier Conference of the Stair Industry!

Network, Learn, Celebrate, and Exhibit!

SUN. SAND. STAIRS

This year’s conference will be an unforgettable blend of networking, learning, and beachside relaxation as we gather to empower the next generation of professionals in the stairbuilding industry.

What’s in store for you:

  • Inspiring Keynotes: Learn from industry leaders about the trends shaping the future of our businesses.
  • Interactive Breakout Sessions: Dive into innovative strategies and solutions for business growth and success.
  • Thought-Provoking Discussions: Explore key topics like empowering the next generation and adapting to industry changes.
  • Beachside Fun: Enjoy special events and unwind on the stunning Pensacola Beach.

Opening Events:
The conference kicks off on Thursday, April 10th with a fun-filled day of activities. Whether you’re a golfer or not, we’ve got something for everyone:

  • Golf Event: Join us for the annual SMA Golf Tournament, perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
  • Tour: Non-golfers can enjoy a guided tour of the National Naval Aviation Museum 

Evening Events:

  • Welcome Reception: Mix and mingle with SMA exhibitors and fellow professionals.
  • SMA Auction: Take part in our exciting auction to support the future of the industry.
  • StairCraft Awards Reception & Banquet: Celebrate the winners of the 17th Annual StairCraft Awards and their incredible achievements.

Keynote Speakers & Sessions:

  • Keynote with Matt Brauning: “Closing the Generational Gap: Communication for All Ages”
    Learn how to bridge the communication gap between generations in the workplace and enhance collaboration across all levels of your organization.
  • Keynote & Lunch with Dallin Cooper: “They Might Not Be Crazy: Engaging and Working With People You Don’t Understand” 

    It’s estimated that 90% of all conflicts are born from misunderstanding.This presentation takes participants on a globe-spanning journey to teach them the skills they need to understand someone else’s point of view and eliminate conflict.

  • “How We Did It” Presentations
    Hear from industry leaders who will share how they achieved success, tackled challenges, and implemented innovative solutions that helped shape their businesses.
  • Workshops & Breakout Sessions
    Dive deep into focused topics like:
    • Stair Trends and Design Concepts: Stay ahead of the curve with the latest innovations in stair design.
    • Lean Legos: Discover how lean manufacturing principles can streamline operations and reduce waste.
    • Shop Talk: A hands-on session where you can discuss real-world challenges and solutions with industry experts.

Get ready for SUN, SAND, & STAIRS—an inspiring, unforgettable experience at the SMA Annual Conference in Pensacola Beach – an event you won’t want to miss!

We look forward to seeing you on the beautiful beaches of Pensacola this April!

 

Join us in beautiful Pensacola, where SUN, SAND, and STAIRS set the stage for an unforgettable conference experience! Connect with industry leaders, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships while exploring the art and craft of stairbuilding. 

Annual Conference Pricing

Early

(purchase by January 27, 2025)

Member: $659
Non-Member: $859

Advanced

(purchase by February 27, 2025)

Member: $759
Non-Member: $959

Late

(purchase after February 28, 2025)

Member: $829
Non-Member: $1,019

Spouse/Companion

(purchase by March 27, 2025)

Full-Conference: $429
Banquets Only: $299

 

Exhibits Only

(purchase by March 27, 2025)

Member: $299
Non-Member: $299

Full Conference Registration:

  • Includes admission to Exhibition Hall
  • Keynote Presentation by Matt Brauning
  • Keynote Presentation by Dallin Cooper
  • 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 January 27, 2025)

Member: $919
Guest: $579

Non-Member: $1,229
Guest: $779

Advance Exhibitor

(purchase by February 27, 2025)

Member: $1,019
Guest: $679

Non-Member: $1,359
Guest: $919

Late Exhibit

(purchase after February 27, 2025)

Member: $1,229
Guests: $779

Non-Member: $1,589
Guest: $969

This year’s learning opportunities are sure to help you grow and pivot toward your goals.

KEYNOTE:  Elliot Eisenberg

Graphs and Laughs, LLC – Owner and Internationally Acclaimed Economist and Public Speaker

Our keynote presentation will help provide clarity to you as you learn more about the economic predictions for 2023 and beyond.  Elliott brings his unique, comical perspective to this relevant, timely topic. 

GENERAL SESSION:  Wayne Herring

Herring Coach, LLC and Business Builder Camp – Owner and Founder

Communication is crucial to the success of an organization.  But with a variety of methods to share information with your staff, coworkers, customers, vendors, and clients, which is the best way?  Learn from Wayne as he shares ways to achieve a positive work environment and effective communication with message clarity, process maintenance, and easy to implement tips!

GENERAL SESSION:  2022 StairCraft Recipients 

“How We Did It” Presentations

Learn how the award winning designs of 2022 were created in this informative and inspiring session. 

A Shop Tour will be available to attendees

Conference attendees will be impressed by the craftsmen at our shop tour as we have the privilege of visiting  a family-owned and operated company that has been thriving in business since 1945.

Central Woodwork

Central Woodwork deep roots in the professional trade.  The offer a a large variety of quality windows, doors, mouldings, stairparts and more.  Central Woodwork serves contractors in the Memphis and Nashville metropolitan areas, and also distribute competitively through a network of the area’s best building supply companies.

Our breakout sessions will focus on Surviving the Changing World, Understanding the Emerging Employee Mentality, Exit Strategies for Business Owners and Being a Strong #2.

Find more information about the 2025 SMA Annual Conference below!