2025 NAEC Convention & Trade in Houston, Texas
CALL FOR SPEAKERS:
Share Your Expertise at the 2026 Events – Conference and Convention
Are you ready to share your expertise with the industry? We invite you to volunteer for a speaking opportunity and share your expertise with the industry. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or bringing fresh insights, your voice can make a difference.
To become an industry speaker for future events and help drive the conversation forward. Simply CLICK HERE to fill out the speaker application form.
—and it’s bringing the heat in all the right ways! As ore than just a skyline full
As the fourth-largest city in the U.S., Houston stands out with its world-class city. With a walkable downtown anchored by the George R. Brown Convention Center and two major airports, getting here and getting around couldn’t be easier. But it’s not just business.From award -winning cuisine (think Texas BBQ meets international fusion) to the Museum District, renowned performing arts, and an unforgettable nightlife, Houston blends serious networking with serious fun. Whether you’re exploring space history at NASA, or enjoying rooftop cocktails with skyline views—Houston makes it memorable. We can’t wait to welcome you deep in the heart of Texas!
Convention Highlights
GOLF TOURNAMENT: Monday, September 15, Golf Club of Houston
The Golf Club of Houston stands as a premier destination for competitive golf, renowned for its rich history and elite-level design. This championship course has challenged some of the game’s greatest players with its Tour-quality conditions and strategic layout. Designed by Rees Jones and David Toms, the course blends classic shot-making demands with modern playability, featuring risk-reward par fives, precise bunkering, and immaculate greens that roll fast and true. Every hole is meticulously crafted to test the skill, strategy, and patience of even the most experienced golfers, making it a must-play for those who appreciate the artistry of elite course design.
UNITED IN DEED: Monday, September 15
1.800.900.6232
Join NAEC in Houston, Texas for our second annual United in Deed give back event! In partnership with MEI Total Elevator Solutions, we are excited to announce this year’s United in Deed will be through the MatterBox Project where attendees will be able to partner up and assemble healthy and sustainable snack packs for local Houston, Texas youth. We are excited for the opportunity to leave an impact on the city that will be hosting our 2025 Convention & Expo!
NAEC Mainline
A quarterly newsletter of the National Association of Elevator Contractors.
President: Bill McGrath
Executive Director: Rená Cozart
Be in Mainline. Know of an event or have an article idea?
Submit your photos and submissions to Rená Cozart at rena@naec.org.
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SAVEthe DATE!
UPCOMING EVENTS
JUNE 9-12, 2025
CECA – 2025 Niagara Falls Convention Niagara Falls, Canada
JUNE 9, 2025
NAEC QEI Prep Course Niagara Falls Convention Center
JUNE 11-12, 2025
Liftex | London, England
JULY 2, 2025
NAEC CEU Workshop | Atlanta, GA
SEPTEMBER 8, 2025
50th Annual Pop/Joe Golf Outing Old Brookville, NY
SEPTEMBER 12, 2025
NAEC QEI Code Prep | Dallas, TX
SEPTEMBER 14-17, 2025
NAEC Convention & Expo | Houston, TX
SEPTEMBER 25-26, 2025
NAESA Wisconsin Elevator Symposium | Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
OCTOBER 14-17, 2025
Interlift | Nuremberg, Germany
2025 NAEC Convention & Trade Show… continued from page 1
A little bit about the MATTER organization: MATTER (matter.ngo) is a Minnesota -based nonprofit on a mission to help individuals, companies, and communities take meaningful action and launch projects that improve lives both locally and globally. One of their flagship programs is the MATTERbox—a volunteer-driven food-packing initiative that supports food security and community wellness. Each MATTERbox empowers volunteers to assemble healthy snack packs along with handwritten notes of encouragement, delivering nourishment and hope to kids and families in need. With over 245,000 meals packed across all 50 states and thousands of volunteers engaged, every box packed helps build stronger, healthier communities.
WELCOME RECEPTION: Monday, September 15
Get ready to saddle up for an unforgettable night as we kick off the NAEC Convention and Expo in the heart of Houston with a Texas-sized celebration! Join us in the Texas Ballroom at the Marriott Marquis Houston for an evening filled with bold flavors, lively entertainment, and the warm hospitality that makes the Lone Star State legendary. Savor the best of authentic Texas cuisine, all while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere that sets the tone for an incredible week ahead. Of course, no Texas celebration is complete without a taste of its bold and time-honored spirits! We’re also bringing you an exclusive bourbon-tasting experience featuring a curated selection of premium bourbons that capture the essence of Southern craftsmanship.
OPENING BREAKFAST: Tuesday, September 16
Start the day with insight and innovation at the Opening Breakfast, featuring a keynote from Erik Zommers, Senior Vice President at Mitsubishi Electric US. As a respected leader in the industry, Erik will provide an in-depth look at the state of the elevator industry, sharing key trends, innovations, and challenges shaping the future. Whether you’re an installer, manufacturer, or industry stakeholder, this is your chance to gain expert insights, hear fresh perspectives, and set the tone for a dynamic week ahead.
AFTERLIFT RECEPTION: Wednesday, September 17
After a full day of exploring the NAEC Expo floor, keep the momentum going at our annual reception, happening immediately after the show closes! Enjoy refreshing drinks, light bites, and great company as you continue conversations, strengthen connections, and build on the business sparked throughout the day. Whether you’re sealing a deal, swapping insights, or simply unwinding with industry peers, this is the perfect way to transition from the expo floor to a night out in vibrant Houston.
NEXGEN HAPPY HOUR: Wednesday September 17, 2025
Kick back, sip up, and let the good times roll at Pitch 25—Houston’s go-to spot for beer, bites, and unbeatable vibes! Join us for our NexGen Happy Hour where the drinks are cold, the company is cooler, and the giant indoor soccer field is just waiting for your victory dance. This Happy Hour is the best way to unwind with your fellow peers after a long successful day at the Expo!
AWARDS BREAKFAST: Thursday, September 18
Join us for a morning of recognition, celebration, and inspiration at the NAEC Awards Breakfast, where we honor the outstanding contributions that drive our industry forward. Enjoy a plated breakfast as we applaud this year’s award winners, including the best exhibit booths, the prestigious President’s Award, and the esteemed William C. Sturgeon Distinguished Service Award. This is also a moment of transition and leadership as we hear from both the incoming and outgoing NAEC presidents as they share their visions for the future and help us welcome the newly elected board of directors. Start your day with great company, well-deserved recognition, and a renewed sense of industry pride.
DREGS PARTY: Thursday, September 18
The legendary Dregs Party is back! A time-honored NAEC tradition, this high-energy closing celebration is the perfect way to wrap up an incredible week. Join us at The Rustic in downtown Houston, where live music, great food, and drink will offer a boot-stompin’ good time. Whether you’re reminiscing about the week’s highlights or simply letting loose with industry friends, this is your chance to celebrate, unwind, and toast to another successful NAEC Convention and Expo. Don’t miss out on this final hurrah - because at the Dregs Party, the best moments happen last!
BOARD OFFICERS 2024-25
NAEC President
Bill McGrath
South Jersey Elevator
NAEC Vice President
Amy DiPaolo American Elevator Group
NAEC Secretary
Travis Carlisle Murphy Elevator Company
NAEC Treasurer
Anita Seymour Expert Service Solutions, Inc.
BOARD MEMBERS
2024-25
Blake Pilgrim, Wurtec
Matt Hollinshead, Kencor Elevator
Teru Irvin, Executive Elevator
Phil Isaac, Gable Elevator
Dennis Lotter, Jersey Elevator
Jack O’Shea, Start Elevator Company
Evan Petrower, Day Elevator & Lift
Matt Yelland, The Peelle Company Ltd.
Veronica Querales, Kohtler Elevator Ind.
Welcome New Members
Advanced Elevator Services
Jackson, GA
Ameriglide Raleigh, NC • ameriglide.com
Bella Architectural Products Harvey, IL bellaarchitectural.com
District Elevators Washington, DC districtelevators.com
Driscoll Elevator Services Inc. Cranston, RI driscollelevatorservices.com
Dzmod Lift Co.
Golden, CO • dzmod.com
Elevator Works Forest Hill, MD elevator-works.com
Elyon Technical Lift Services Ltd. Lagos, Africa
JV DESIGN Chicago, IL • jvdesignmfg.com
Leveling Up Elevator Services, LLC Jackson, MS levelingupelevators.com
liftpitchmedia New York, NY • liftpitchmedia.com
MCN Tribal Inspection Okmulgee, OK
Omnify
Markham, ON • omnifynow.com
Onics Resistors Private Ltd. India • powerresistor.in
ONYX Henderson, NV nextlevelcabs.com
Oracle NetSuite Austin, TX • netsuite.com
Parkland Enterprises, LLC
DBA: Parkland Vertical Solutions San Antonio, TX parklandverticalsolutions.com
Premier Elevator and Lift Grand Rapids, OH premierelevatorandlift.com
Sealeze Richmond, IN • sealeze.com
Slater Professional Elevator Consulting Services, LLC Tarpon Springs, FL
SMD Sensors Wallingford, CT • smdsensors.com
Sperry Mitchell & Co. New York, NY • sperrymitchell.com
Suzhou Yunchuan Metal Technology Co. Ltd. Suzhou, Jiangsu Province yunjingsz.com
TrueContext Kanata, ON • truecontext.com
Vertia Elevator New York, NY
Vertical Transportation Services, LLC Fort Lauderdale, FL vtselevatorservices.com
Wayne Scott Inc. New York, NY
With an easy access format, the new site offers great information on all things NAEC.
New features include:
• Automatic connectivity to the LMS and YM systems for members
• Glossary of Industry Acronyms
• Simplified scrolling for ‘at your fingertips’ information on Education and Safety
• Automatic Link to the Elevator Industry Safety Partners (EISP) page, hosted by NAEC
• Easy Link to registration for upcoming Convention and Expo
SCS ELEVATOR PRODUCTS
Located at the biggest bend of the Mississippi River, in Red Wing Minnesota, is the country’s largest manufacturer of ANSI and CBC compliant jamb and cab braille, along with buttons, directional signage and data/inspection tags.
SCS Elevator Products begin in 1978 as Stencil Cutting and Supply Co. Our founder, Robley G. Cook, was a visually impaired man who recognized the need for directional braille signs in and around elevators. His approach to the major elevator manufacturers was very well received, as SCS continues to be the dominant supplier of these products today. Not resting on our laurels, SCS Elevator Products continues to develop innovative methods to meet the needs of an everchanging market using our depth of manufacturing capabilities. SCS focuses on designing, manufacturing and providing finished products using our core competencies – plastic injection molding, die casting, metal stamping, decorating and assembly.
SCS business is run on the Core Value of the acronym PITCH. Positive, Integrity, Teamwork, Customer focus, Honesty. PITCH has allowed us to foster a culture where Leadership and employees have a mutual pride of SCS Elevator Products. We estimate 75% of our new hires come to us via relatives, friends or referrals by our employees.
Being dedicated to our ISO 9001 certification, employees are trained and certified in their roles and manufacturing processes.
One key driver to our 98%+ rate on key metric indicators and measurables is our Strategic Success Program. The Leadership Team comprised of the president, finance,
engineering, manufacturing, operations and sales, meet on a strict, dedicated weekly schedule. This structured system is designed to identify, address, and resolve critical issues. These may include manufacturing inefficiencies, employee health and well-being, COVID-19 response planning, supplier and customer challenges, and organizational culture. Each team member is assigned specific tasks and held accountable until the issue is fully resolved. Our strategic success program also includes mechanisms to track and capture cost savings and efficiency gains resulting from these efforts.
As part of the Strategic Success Program in 2021, SCS set a goal to find a meaningful way to give back—one that aligned with our core values and mission, and that our employees could genuinely support. Drawing inspiration from our long-standing commitment to supporting the visually impaired—and honoring our founder’s use of a guide dog—we launched a puppy sponsorship initiative with Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines. Through this sponsorship, SCS covers all expenses for a service dog in training from 8 weeks of age until it returns to campus for formal instruction at 15 to 18 months. As of November 2023, SCS Elevator Products has proudly sponsored the training of two service dogs: Kona, born in summer 2021, and Orbit, born in July 2023.
Encompassing PITCH, along with the Strategic Success Program is positioning SCS Elevator Products and our employees to a bright and successful future.
kona has officially graduated and is now a certified service dog.
She has been paired with Josh, a former Marine who did two tours in Afghanistan.
orbit is our newest guide dog in training
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ELEVATING EXCELLENCE: The JV Design & Manufacturing Vision and History
JV Design and Manufacturing was founded in 2016 by Jose Villarruel after more than a decade as a project manager and estimator at a local elevator manufacturing company. Jose saw an opportunity to build something better—something that went beyond materials and mechanics to focus on people, relationships and precision.
He didn’t set out just to supply materials. He set out to create a company that prioritized relationships, responsiveness, and reliability throughout the entire elevator design and manufacturing process.
With an extensive background in manufacturing and a fabricator’s mindset, Jose brings technical precision and practical insight to every project. That expertise directly fuels JV Design’s wide-ranging manufacturing capabilities, from structural elevator components to stunning custom interiors featuring special metals, wood, glass, and other high-end finishes. JV Design’s work doesn’t just perform —it showcases beauty, durability, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
At the heart of our company is a team of highly skilled professionals, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design, innovating, and delivering exceptional customer
service at every stage. From day one, Jose understood that success starts with people. He was intentional about surrounding himself with individuals who were not only highly skilled but also approachable, dependable, and easy to work with. That mindset helped shape a strong company culture—one that nurtures talent, encourages growth, and aligns every team member with the broader mission. Several of JV Design’s top-level team members came from within the elevator industry. Together, they built a business grounded in mutual respect, real-world experience, and a shared commitment to excellence. For Jose, it was essential that his team be an extension of himself—reflecting his values, standards, and long-term vision.
JV Design’s production team is a clear reflection of that. Among the best Jose has worked with in his career, they bring consistency, craftsmanship, and pride to everything they fabricate—ensuring that each project meets the highest functional and aesthetic standards.
JV Design began excelling in the transit elevator market—becoming a go-to source for one of its most trusted partners. The company has since delivered Transit Type elevators to major agencies including CTA, Metra, Amtrak, MTA, Sound Transit, and others across the country.
Today, with a new 20,000-square-foot facility on the horizon and steady expansion into new markets, JV Design and Manufacturing continues to grow with purpose—delivering excellence through every project, every partnership, and every detail. With a portfolio that spans complete passenger elevators, interiors, UL Rated hoistway doors and entrances to the very custom special use transit elevators for Amtrak, MTA, Sound-Transit, Metra and additionally unique military elevators, we continue to lead with purpose. As buildings evolve, so do we—offering complete elevator packages that balance sophistication with structural integrity.
We are extremely excited to announce that JV Design will be exhibiting at this year’s NAEC Houston convention! Please stop by and check us out at Booth #1345
At JV Design, we don’t just move people—we move expectations.
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Vantage: Bronx Training Session
On May 8th, industry professionals from across the region gathered at the GAL Manufacturing facility in the Bronx for a continuing education event hosted by Vantage Elevator Solutions and NAEC.
As a long time NAEC member, Annual Partner and supporter, Vantage offered a wonderful opportunity for colleagues to connect, share knowledge and strengthen the bonds that keep our community moving upward. Jerald Pittman attended the class and had great things to say, ‘Dave is a wealth of knowledge… good class! We need more classes just like that!’
Vantage generously hosted this event and gave course participants a tour of the Bronx facility. As a valued partner with NAEC and the elevator industry, Vantage is ready to hosting additional events. Watch for information to register for future events.
Special thanks to the Vantage team, who continue to be core supporters of NAEC and its members. They are committed to supporting education programs to make the industry safer.
CECA 51st Annual Convention
The Canadian Elevator Contractors Association’s 51st Annual Convention in June was one for the books! The picturesque Niagara Falls location was the perfect backdrop for this well attended show.
Sponsored by Alcor Elevator, the meeting hosted hundreds of industry professionals who enjoyed the many exhibits, meetings and networking events– all at the foot of the Falls! The program was packed with an array of education offerings and group activities, including the NAEC hosted QEI Prep Course and the CECA Golf Tournament.
Several affinity groups hosted meetings including Elelevate-HER (CECA’s women’s group), 19-39 (CECA’s under 40 professionals) and Construction Hoistway. The Convention wrapped up with the ‘Wine down’ where attendees enjoyed the tastes of the region.
For more information about upcoming CECA events, check out www.CECA-acea.org
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Reliable People, High-Quality Solutions
Q: WHAT DOES ONYX OFFER?
ONYX provides escalator handrails, field splicing, custom molds, and training — all designed to support escalator service companies in the field. We offer short lead times, same-day pickup option, and a web portal with 24/7 access to quotes, tracking, and documentation.
Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO FOUND ONYX?
We founded ONYX to build a company that’s people-focused, reliable, and easy to work with. Our goal is to support field crews with high-quality solutions and fast, responsive service — so they can get the job done safely and efficiently without an extra headache.
Q: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE LAS VEGAS AS THE BASE FOR YOUR COMPANY?
Las Vegas has one of the highest densities of escalators in the U.S. and is an ideal nationwide shipping hub. It allows us to serve customers across the country quickly and efficiently.
Q: WHAT SETS ONYX APART FROM OTHER SUPPLIERS IN THE MARKET?
We’re known for our speed, service, and hands-on support. With same-day pickup option, fast lead times, and a knowledgeable team that understands field work, we’re here to help our customers succeed — every step of the way.
Q: WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO JOIN NAEC, AND HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN SO FAR?
We’re extremely excited to join NAEC. The support from the organization and its members has been fantastic, and we’re proud to be part of this community. We’ll be exhibiting at the Houston show this September, and we look forward to being a regular exhibitor and long-term member for years to come.
onyxloops.com sales@onyxloops.com
For those not attending (the NAEC Convention & Expo) you are missing out!
THE NETWORKING, THE INNOVATION… IT’S JUST PHENOMENAL!
– Blake Pilgrim, WURTEC
Accessibility & Residential Committee Meet & Greet: How Can We Help?
Calling All Accessibility & Residential Industry Professionals!
Join the Accessibility & Residential Committee during a Boxed Lunch Meet & Greet at the 2025 Fall Convention & Exhibition in Houston, Texas. This is your chance to share what matters most to you—and how we can better support your work.
Why Attend? Take this opportunity to:
• Network with fellow professionals in the accessibility and residential field
• Exchange ideas, challenges, and solutions
• Learn more about joining NAEC’s CAT Program, navigating state licensure, discussing best practices, education, professional development, and more
Date: Tuesday, September 16 • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM We’re here to listen—and help. See you in Houston!
NAEC Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the Vertical Transportation Management Program (VTMP)!
We’re proud to mark a decade of the Vertical Transportation Management Program (VTMP)—a dynamic program designed to prepare elevator professionals for supervisory, sales, and management roles. The VTMP is also ideal for individuals transitioning from the field to the office, equipping them with the tools they need for long-term success.
In addition to leadership training, the program features a technical component that has proven especially valuable for sales professionals. Graduates have shared that this technical knowledge has helped them better understand the products they sell and aid in recommending more effective solutions to clients.
With such a strong foundation, it’s time for the VTMP to evolve. A dedicated group of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) have come together as the VTMP Committee, working diligently to update the program, ensure it meets current industry standards, and add even greater value for participants.
Exciting updates are on the way—stay tuned, and don’t miss your chance to be part of the next chapter of VTMP!
STAY AHEAD ON THE CURVE: CERTIFICATION RENEWAL REMINDERS
QEI RENEWALS –MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
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The countdown is on! The QEI renewal window opened July 1, 2025. Keep an eye on your inbox for your official renewal notice, complete with everything you need to stay certified and compliant.
CAT/CET RENEWALS –COMING SOON!
Get ready! CAT and CET renewals kick off August 4, 2025. Watch for your personalized renewal email with step-by-step instructions to make the process smooth and simple.
EARN THOSE CREDITS EARLY! WHY WAIT?
Now is the perfect time to knock out your Continuing Education requirements. Once you’ve earned your certificates, upload them straight to your NAEC account—it’s quick and easy!
Need help logging in?
Our Certification Team is here for you: certification@naec.org
CET CERTIFICATION
OPEN BOOK EXAM: NAEC is pleased to introduce the new CET Certification Open Book Exam.
Developed by subject matter experts, this exam incorporates newly approved references and upholds the highest industry standards. For a limited time, the application fee will be waived for the first 30 applicants!
DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY! apply today!
ceca conference niagara falls
iaec conference new orleans
The new GL171X from Hollister-Whitney is a modern solution to your modernization challenge— going from geared to gearless traction machines. It’s a cost-effective solution designed for powerful, energy-efficient performance.
General Design Criteria:
Speed: Up to 500 fpm
Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs. at 50% CW
Roping: 1 to 1, Single Wrap
Grooving: up to (8) – 3/8" or (7) – ½" ropes
Sheave Shaft Load: 25,700 lbs.
Machine weight: 2,560 lbs. Fits through 30" door
The new Nexus™ hydraulic control system from Vantage incorporates the features that today’s elevator contractors demand. It’s easier to install. Easier to configure. And easier to troubleshoot.
Built for today’s elevator contractors
• Faster installation: Fewer field wires for easier installation – and fewer errors
• Easier configuration: Make field modifications without software changes
• Faster troubleshooting: Large touchscreen presets information clearly for quick troubleshooting and service restoration
• Improved Safety: Independent Safety Monitoring Circuits for EPDs
• Remote monitoring: Remote-monitoring-ready with Vantage Connect
Easy-to-navigate menus make configuration and troubleshooting quick and easy at three locations: Controller, Car Top, and Car Operating panel.
Check out the vantage self-service portal at vantageelevation.com/nexus
Streamlined end-to-end estimating, pricing and ordering.
