Dec. 18, 2025 – LAS VEGAS – Coverings (coverings.com), the largest and most influential event in North America dedicated to ceramic tile and natural stone, has unveiled extensive educational programming for Coverings 2026, taking place March 30–April 2, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Coverings 2026 attendees will gain impactful insights to strengthen professional skills, deepen market intelligence and support leadership growth across the tile, stone, designand construction industries. Show registrants and prospective attendees can explore the full scope of educational sessions and partner programs for Coverings 2026, including dates, times and locations of all scheduled conference events, by visiting the official 2026 show schedule. 

Conference programming planned for Coverings 2026 will blend multiple modes of instruction—from technical presentations and partner-led sessions to dialogue-driven Q&As and live demos—creating a learning environment that equips showgoers with the strategic and practical knowledge required to navigate a rapidly shifting tile and stone industry.

One major highlight of the Coverings 2026 conference programming will be a marquee session featuring Gary Sinise, acclaimed actor, humanitarian and founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation. 

“Building Hope: A Conversation with Gary Sinise, NTCA, and NSI on Serving Veterans Through Skilled Craftsmanship,” sponsored by MAPEI Corporation at the headline level and PROFLEX® Products, Inc. at the supporting level, is scheduled for April 1, 8:30–9:15 a.m. PDT and will bring Sinise and leaders from the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and the Natural Stone Institute (NSI) together. 

The conversation will shed light on their collaborative work through the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence, Supporting Empowerment) program, which constructs custom-built, specially adapted mortgage-free smart homes for the United States’ most severely wounded heroes and recently marked a major milestone with the dedication of its 100th smart home.

Those in attendance of the session will learn how tile and stone professionals have contributed to the smart homes the Foundation builds, and garner practical guidance on ways to participate in future builds, from providing skilled labor and material donations to offering broader advocacy.

Registered professionals for Coverings 2026 will also have full access to nearly two dozen other targeted sessions organized within three core learning tracks: Installation & Fabrication, Materials & Trends and Workforce & Profits.

Sampling of Several Featured Sessions

“The Most Directional Color and Design Trends,” taking place March 30, 9:30–10:30 a.m., will be one of many opening-day sessions for showgoers to attend as they kick off an information-rich first day. Leatrice (Lee) Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, will present her latest color and design trend program, “Sense-Abilities,” which examines the lifestyle cues and emotional triggers shaping consumer design choices. Eiseman will highlight the most directional color and design influences expected to guide product development and project decision-making in the year ahead, drawing on themes that span both nostalgic references and forward-looking inspiration.

Another must-attend education session slated for the first day of Coverings, March 30, is “Get Inspired and Turbocharge Your Business,” taking place from 8–9 a.m. The program will spotlight standout selections from the Tile Heritage Foundation’s (THF) archive of more than 44,000 digital images, demonstrating how historical context can enrich storytelling, reinforce project authenticity, and inspire new concepts that resonate within today’s design landscape. Attendees will gain insight into how THF’s free resources can support and shape strategic business growth and establish long-term industry presence by connecting contemporary tile work with the foundation’s archival legacy. 

A dedicated Architecture & Design (A&D) Day, March 31, will expand Coverings 2026’s educational offerings with six American Institute of Architects (AIA)–accredited courses. These sessions are designed to equip architects and designers with practical knowledge and specification tools that strengthen project outcomes across residential and commercial work. The full lineup will be presented by the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and Natural Stone Institute (NSI).

The A&D Day schedule will include CTDA’s “Why Tile” from 8–9 a.m. and “Health and Environmental Benefits of Ceramic Tile” from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. NSI will present “The Art of Specifying Natural Stone” from 8–9 a.m. and “Natural Stone and Green Design” from 9:30–10:30 a.m. NTCA will round out the program with “Introduction to Tile Industry Standards, Methods and Best Practices” from 9:30–10:30 a.m., followed by “Specifying & Installing Gauged Porcelain Tile Panels/Slabs” from 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Day 2 at Coverings 2026 will also highlight “Inspire, Lead, Grow: Opportunities for Emerging Professionals in Tile and Stone,” scheduled for 12:30–1:30 p.m. This interactive program is designed for emerging professionals and future leaders who want to define meaningful career paths, strengthen critical skill sets, attract and mentor new talent, and gain a deeper understanding of how leadership at all levels drives innovation and progress.

Those attending the Day 3 panel discussion, “Inside the Industry: Leaders on Tile Today,” 9:30–10:30 a.m., will glean perspective from leaders across all tile and stone sectors as they examine current market dynamics, supply chain considerations, evolving customer expectations and emerging business opportunities. The conversation will offer practical insight into how these industry forces are shaping both residential and commercial applications and will present strategies to support long-term success.

Partner education will further enrich the Coverings 2026 learning experience across Days 2 and 3, starting with a special edition of Facades+, presented in partnership with The Architect’s Newspaper, March 31. “Facades+ Las Vegas” will feature a half-day program of design case studies and educational sessions led by leading architects, engineers and contractors (AEC), focusing on the latest advancements in façade technology, materials and best practices. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn three Health, Safety and Welfare (HSW) credits from AIA, learn directly from AEC experts and explore a range of materials with full access to the Coverings show floor.

Additional partner-led education will follow during Day 3 with the University of Ceramic Tile and Stone’s (UofCTS) “How to Be a Professional Architectural Sales Rep to Develop ‘Bullet Proof’ Specifications and Get the Order.” This four-hour workshop will focus on how to write a proper specification, how to protect it, and ultimately how to secure the order. The first 20 people to register will also receive a complimentary copy of the comprehensive guide workbook. Separate registration is required for both events and attendees can learn more and register at Coverings.com/education-partners.

Access the Coverings website to explore the full range of educational opportunities for Coverings 2026 and to take advantage of early-bird registration benefits, including cost-free registration through February 1, 2026. 

A standard advance registration fee of $49 will apply from February 2–March 29. Onsite registration will be offered March 30–April 2 for $49 online or $99 in person. Complete registration details, including policies and pricing, are available at Coverings.com/registration-information

Las Vegas is calling—and for professionals in the pool, spa, patio, or decking industries, PSP/Deck Expo later this month is the event that sets the pace for the entire next season. Pre-conference intensives from PHTA, GENESIS, and the National Plasterers Council run October 19–21, followed by the Core Conference and Expo October 22–24 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (North Hall). It’s the week where education, innovation, and community all converge—where professionals sharpen their skills in the morning, kick the tires on new tech in the afternoon, and make the connections that turn into next year’s wins.

Your Playbook for the Biggest Week in Pools, Spas & Decking

The PSP/Deck education ecosystem is designed to stack value day after day—so attendees come home with practical upgrades to how they design, build, service, sell, and lead. As Show Manager Megan Magaña told us, “One of the biggest draws is the educational tracks, which are world-class and taught by some of the best instructors in their respective fields.”

Pre-Conference to Post-Conference: How the Learning Stacks

With classes suited for all aspects of the industry, the curriculum is diverse and well-rounded. Courses are planned with input from an education advisory board that includes builders, service pros, retailers, and owners. Magaña emphasized the cross-pollination: “Our program is an exchange of ideas. A builder might pick up something from a retail session; a service tech might learn a new repair solution. That’s the point—get everyone in the room solving problems together.”

Advice For Getting The Most From Educational Courses

“It’s best to start with certification or deep-dive classes during the pre-conference,” said Magaña. “Hit the core sessions in the mornings for strategic and technical training. Then spend afternoons on the show floor’s demo theaters and solution-driven talks—where you can walk ten steps from a session to the booth that sells the tool, product, or software you just learned about.”

Three Keynotes, Three Ways to Level Up

This year brings three distinct keynote experiences—one each morning—to frame your strategy for 2026:

Industry Insights Panel with real-time audience polling and market benchmarks. You’ll walk out with data points you can take to pricing meetings and planning sessions.

Dallas Cowboys legend Darren Woodson on building cultures of excellence. Expect practical parallels between championship teams and high-performing businesses—hiring, standards, accountability, and daily habits.

Women of Water, powered by PHTA and POOLCORP, focused on purpose, leadership, and building authentic confidence across teams and roles.

Magaña called it “the most robust keynote program we’ve ever had—know the landscape, build winning teams, and develop leaders.”

First-Timer Tips From the Show Manager

If this is your first PSP/Deck, you’ll be in good company. Magaña’s advice is simple and field-tested: “Do a little prep work before you get here. Hop on the website, circle the sessions you want, the vendors you must meet, and make a goal to meet four new friends.” And bring comfortable shoes. “It’s easy to wear your feet out walking the expo floor, there’s just so much to see.”

One more advantage to plan around: the show’s matchmaking platform, included with registration. When attendees indicate what they’re looking for—and exhibitors indicate what they offer—the team can line up on-site meetings so you roll into Vegas with a slate of introductions already scheduled. “When service techs, builders, retailers, deck pros, manufacturers, and distributors are all mingling, connections happen naturally,” Magaña said. “Matchmaking just accelerates it.”

Hours at a Glance

Always confirm on the official schedule/app for last-minute updates.

Show Floor Hours

Education Hours

Agenda (Oct. 19–24, 2025)

Pre-Conference (Oct. 19–21): PHTA, GENESIS, and National Plasterers Council
Post-Conference (Fri–Sat): Pool Nation

Can’t Miss Events at the PSP Deck Expo

Welcome Party at AYU Dayclub (Resorts World). The industry’s favorite kickoff returns—pools, cabanas, and the perfect backdrop to hydrate, caffeinate, and celebrate before you fan out to Vegas nightlife. It’s a high-energy mixer and an easy way to lock in your first dozen meaningful conversations of the week.

PHTA Awards of Excellence. A showcase of top-tier residential and commercial projects from across the country, honoring standout craftsmanship, design innovation, and professional excellence. It’s a fast way to see what “best in class” looks like—and to gather fresh ideas for your 2026 portfolio.

Pool Nation Awards (Black Tie). A crowd-pleaser that recognizes excellence across product categories, teams, reps, and the ever-popular Pool Guy/Pool Girl of the Year honors. Think red-carpet energy with an industry-insider heartbeat.

Beyond those anchors, expect association receptions, meetups, and stage programming on the floor. A complete list of this year’s special events can be found on the show website.

Innovations, New Faces & the Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge

Innovative Product Showcase & Awards. If you want the “what’s next” snapshot in one pass, start here. The Showcase gathers the year’s most buzzworthy solutions so you can see, compare, and bookmark the gear shaping 2026—automation, energy-savvy equipment, alternative sanitization, water/feature lighting, software, materials, and more. It also gives rising brands the visibility lift they need. As Magaña noted, “New brands are positioned alongside established leaders—it’s a credibility boost that could take years otherwise.”

New Exhibitors, Real Opportunities. PSP/Deck’s floor layout intentionally drives traffic to emerging manufacturers and tech startups. That matters if you’re sourcing innovation—especially in categories like AI-assisted mapping, remote monitoring, inverter-driven equipment, and advanced surfaces. It matters even more if you’re the new brand: distribution conversations that might take months can start and finish in three days.

The Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge (co-sponsored by Pool Magazine). Designers, this is your Super Bowl. A realistic client brief, a $1,000,000 budget cap, and five finalists presenting live on the floor. It’s a master class in storytelling, site strategy, engineering, and material choices—and an incredible way for pros and students to showcase their thinking. If you spec, design, sell, or build, block time for this session; you’ll come away with fresh ideas you can put to work immediately.

Whether you’re running a construction crew, managing a retail floor, growing a service route, or leading a regional brand, PSP/Deck is where you earn the edge for next year—skills, suppliers, and strategy. Magaña framed it perfectly: “It feels like a reunion. You bump into friends, meet mentors, and see the future of the industry in one place. It’s October on the calendar, but for us, it’s the beginning of the next year.”

Pool Magazine—the digital trade publication partner for the show—has your complimentary Expo pass with code “POOLMAG25”. We’ll see you on the floor in Vegas.

Want to take a deeper dive? Listen to our interview with show manager Megan Magaña on the Pool Magazine podcast or visit the official show website for more details.

Photo Credits: Joshua Sandoval | Pool Magazine

Long Beach, CA – June 25, 2025 – The Western Pool & Spa Show proudly announces the appointment of Michelle Kavanaugh to its Board of Directors, bringing decades of industry expertise, strategic leadership, and a passion for education and empowerment to one of the pool industry’s most respected events.

According to Show Director Eric Nielson, “Michelle brings a wealth of experience in the swimming pool industry in both association management and education. She possesses unique skill sets that will be invaluable in sustaining the show’s growth and fulfilling its mission to promote education in the industry. We couldn’t be more pleased.”

Michelle Kavanaugh is a renowned business strategist, marketing mentor, and advocate for both trade professionals and women. With over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, marketing, and leadership, she has consistently driven transformation and growth across organizations, helping small business owners thrive through personalized coaching and her signature SMART solutions.

She is the founder of Michelle Kavanaugh Inc., where she works closely with entrepreneurs to bring clarity, structure, and momentum to their businesses. Her previous leadership roles include serving as Executive Director of the California Pool & Spa Association and spending 14 years with the National Swimming Pool Foundation, where she led mission development, managed the Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Certification program, and produced major industry events, such as the World Aquatic Health Conference.

Outside of the industry, Michelle’s passion for impact extends into advocacy. Inspired by the book Half the Sky, she dedicated four years to supporting survivors of domestic violence through TESSA of Colorado Springs. Today, she serves on the board of Awaken Your Lioness, a nonprofit that empowers formerly incarcerated women to rebuild their lives and communities.

Originally from South Dakota and raised in Colorado, Michelle relocated to Texas in 2023. She is a proud mother, a dynamic public speaker, and a lifelong learner known for her professionalism, optimism, and results-driven leadership.

Now celebrating its 48th year, the Western Pool & Spa Show is the largest pool industry trade show on the West Coast. Since 1978, the nonprofit, all-volunteer organization has remained a leader in both education and industry exhibition, offering an expansive show floor and what many consider the best educational programming in the pool and spa industry.

Michelle Kavanaugh’s appointment reinforces the Show’s ongoing commitment to innovation and education as it looks toward the future.

For more information about the Western Pool & Spa Show, visit www.westernshow.com.