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NKBA U Spotlight | Instructor Morton Block, CMKBD, CAPS

For NKBA U Instructor Morton Block, everything is 20/20, whether he’s teaching fellow professionals the popular design drafting software or sharing insights gained through his more than 30 years experience.

As an industry veteran, you bring lots of experience to your NKBA U courses. What’s your favorite topic to teach?

It’s not so much a topic as it is just what you mentioned—experience. Before anyone can become an instructor for any subject, they must first have practical experience in the field they will teach. As a designer, I learned firsthand the pitfalls that can affect the outcome of good design. I’m so grateful my work as an NKBA U Instructor has afforded me the opportunity to share the insights I’ve gained in my 30 years spent in the industry—things that cost me headaches, money and sometimes both. Helping fellow professionals avoid mistakes without having to learn the hard way makes my work all the more rewarding, and my greatest payback is the success of those I teach and mentor.

Being a talented designer is only part of the equation for success in this industry; what are the other crucial pieces when it comes to being a business-savvy professional?

One of the most important skills I have learned and pass along in my classes is the skill of active listening. Designers are often passionate and enthused individuals—it’s in our nature. But when we get caught up in our visions or immersed in the desire to satisfy our clients’ wants and needs, it’s easy to miss something important because we’ve already moved onto the next step. My advice? Slow down. Clarify what you have heard by repeating it to the customer getting agreement on critical points. I’m also a firm believer in writing re-cap emails to document client conversations just to make sure we’re all on the same page.

3. How has your work as an NKBA U instructor changed the way you approach your profession?

When you are an instructor you have to "walk the talk." You must set an example for new people coming into the business. I practice what I preach in my design and business practice; it has never failed me.

What’s one of your favorite memories from a class you’ve taught?

During one of the first classes I taught, I was explaining how to measure the dimension of a room. For one reason or another, it just wasn’t clicking for a few of the learners—the concept wasn’t adding up. I worried I wasn't explaining the process correctly, until I had the "aha" moment: I asked if they remembered learning in grade school that "the sum of the parts must equal the whole!" They immediately understood, and I found a new way to explain the measuring process.

How have technological advancements impacted both your work and the industry as a whole? What advice do you give to professionals so they can stay ahead of the curve?

There’s something to be said for the discipline and art of drafting by hand. But the time and money saved with drafting software programs like 20-20 has been huge for designers. Progams like 20-20 provide a platform for designers to create elevations and perspective renderings directly from a floor plan. It literally saves hours of time. And with products from a manufacturer’s catalog incorporated, you can provide a client a formal quote with a click of a button. That saves not only time, but costly math errors that could occur when quotes are prepared manually.

From the perspective of NKBA U, taking the classes online has been nothing short of a game changer. The course content is the same as the classroom where they were first taught. Teaching in the virtual space allows me to connect to a learners’ computer to assist with any issues they may be having – not much different from walking down an aisle to look over their shoulder. Questions are asked and immediately answered. Another huge benefit is that professionals no longer have to incur the cost of travel and lodging; you can learn from the convenience of your office or home. All that’s needed is a computer with 20-20 software, internet access, and a phone.

You wrote a book about how to start and run a successful kitchen and bath business; what are your top three tips for those just starting in the industry?

1. If you are planning a showroom – location, location, location. Showrooms may be destinations, but if your customers can’t easily get there, they won’t succeed.

2. Know your market inside and out. That means knowing your target customer and your competition. Where are they shopping? What are they buying? Where’s the opportunity to set yourself apart? If a market is already saturated with a healthy mix of products, it may be best to explore other markets.

3. If you’re launching a new business, make sure you have adequate capital--

at least six months after the start-up costs have been paid— so you can comfortably operate and pay bills if there are no sales or income for the first six months.

Aside from what you’ve learned through your certification, what’s been the biggest benefit of your NKBA membership?

I learned very quickly after I joined NKBA that the only way you can develop and grow is through participation—whether it’s volunteering at the chapter or national level. Through NKBA, I’ve strengthened my knowledge of design and advanced my skills as a professional. And once I got certified, it took my recognition and integrity from my client base to a whole new level. The fact that continuing education is a requirement to maintain it means that I’m always improving myself. Clients are quick to see the value of that when they’re making hiring decisions.

CALL TO ACTION: Designing with 20-20 can save you serious time and money. Check out Morton’s upcoming live, virtual-led 20-20 Fast Track Kitchen & Bath Design courses kicking off June 10 and 11: Click Here to Learn More

Stay Connected with Morton: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MortonBlock Twitter: https://twitter.com/mortonblock

NKBA U Spotlight: Rachel Troychock, NKBA Manager of Collaborative and Social Learning

From the brick-and-mortar classroom to live, virtual learning, Rachel Troychock debunks the online learning stigma and shares what sets NKBA U, the Association’s most innovative and comprehensive learning program to date, apart from the rest.

What motivated the NKBA to switch from traditional classroom instruction to collaborative instruction online?

Most would think technology motivated the switch, but it was actually driven by our learners. Walk in a small business owner’s shoes and you quickly learn how true the time is money adage really is. And with time at such a premium for the professionals we serve, we know that professional development must be convenient, and it must be worth it. Putting the NKBA U courses online means our learners can learn whenever they want, wherever they want. Combine that convenience factor with excellent content developed and taught by industry veterans—all delivered through innovative software and social platforms, and you get a best-in-class experience on par with top-notch corporate universities.

A lot of people question the quality of traditional classroom learning versus virtually connecting with your laptop from your office or living room—what has been your experience with that?

It’s all about delivering the material and creating an experience that meets or exceeds the experience you’d have in a traditional classroom. Whether it’s with the help of your laptop’s microphone or with the chat feature during course sessions, we use technology that allows participants and instructors to interact with each other in real time. In a traditional classroom environment, access to the course instructor can be rather limited. Through a collaborative social platform we use called Yammer, the dialogue is constant—learners can connect with instructors and one another 24/7. Such accessibility creates the opportunity for deeper collaboration as the professionals learn not only from the instructor, but from one another—the collective wealth of knowledge they share with each other is truly incredible.

So the class structure must be different, too…

It’s about making smart use of class time. We have to determine which material is best taught in the live, virtual space and what can be studied individually. Numerous studies prove information retention is significantly higher when the material is delivered in smaller, easy-to-digest bites. Breaking our courses up into multiple sessions helps our learners retain more knowledge and allows them to bring it back to their jobs in the most effective way.

What’s another perk to the virtual classroom that may be surprising?

The networking that happens in conjunction with coursework provides a much more dynamic learning experience. Connecting with professionals in other markets gives you insight into what’s happening across the country. Equally—if not more—valuable is the perspective you gain from professionals who work in other parts of the industry. Our expanded course offering means we’re not only educating designers, but builders, contractors, architects, retailers and manufacturers. And in these classes, professionals are finding common ground in a collaborative environment free of the stress that often accompanies a project. When you engage in these dialogues inspired by the course material, that time is money well spent.

Stay tuned to hear more from Rachel—throughout the year she’ll weigh in on everything from best practices for online learning to the classroom of the future. Follow her on Twitter @NKBA_Rachel

NKBA U Spotlight: Brooke Eversoll; CKD

With a longstanding passion for all things home and a new certification, Brooke Eversoll shares how NKBA helped prepare her for the career she’d always wanted—and how it continues to take her profession to new levels.

1. Your path toward a career as a kitchen and bath designer had some interesting twists and turns—how did you arrive where you are now?

While I was earning my Fine Arts degree, I craved work that was tangible—a minor in Sculpture helped balance out those hours spent in the computer lab. And as someone who’d always had a passion for all things home (architecture, kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping, and furniture design), I was absolutely thrilled when my mom asked for my help remodeling her house. Her home became my palette, and that experience helped me discover my passion for interiors. I loved creating, building, and seeing my vision come to life. Her home still features a concrete countertop I built for her bathroom.

As soon as I graduated, I pursued my passion for kitchen and bath design. My first job was with a large scale remodeling center that specialized in full turn-key projects, from inspiration to installation. The company was an NKBA member and encouraged employees not only to be involved, but also to get certified. Over the years as I looked at the best designers in my industry, I quickly realized they all carried certifications. What better way to set myself apart from the rest and take my career to a new level? Once I earned my Associate Kitchen and Bath Design (AKBD) certification in 2007, I immediately set my eyes on the next level of certification, CKD.

2. And here we are 7 year later, congratulating you on your new certification. What’s been your big takeaway since becoming certified?

Thank you! After working toward a goal like this for so long, it’s a pretty incredible feeling. Getting certified is so much more than the technical nuts-and-bolts side of the business—it’s a commitment of principle and professionalism for yourself and your client. A commitment to a code of ethics you’ll practice. Those elements combined help set certified designers apart even more from the rest.

3. With your goal of certification achieved, what do you have your eyes set on next?

I cannot wait to get my Certified Bath Designer (CBD) certification—that’s a must. But the more I immerse myself in my work, the more I realize design is just one facet of this industry and I have a lot of other areas to master to take my career even further. The NKBA U Kitchen and Bath Business course I took was perfect for that, because in order to be a successful designer, you have to balance aesthetics and function with the business side of the industry.

4. NKBA U recently transitioned its courses to an online offering—how was that experience?

The benefits were evident immediately—convenience was a given, but I’m especially grateful for the social and collaborative element. Instead of sitting in a class for three or more days back-to-back with other local professionals, I’m learning from the experiences of designers, remodelers, and other industry professionals from all over the country. Communicating with other designers throughout the country is a great way to share our experiences and expertise that may differ from market to market. Having your peers as a sounding board well after the class is over is a valuable tool and asset and I plan to keep in touch with several that I met through the course.

Please join us in congratulating Brooke on her recent certification and follow along with her future achievements by following her on Twitter!

NKBA U Spotlight: David Newton; NKBA University Instructor

Today, education takes center stage with our first of many NKBA U Spotlight posts where we’ll connect with those who have helped transform how NKBA serves, trains and develops industry professionals.

We recently sat down with David Newton, CMKBD—an NKBA U Instructor and industry veteran with 40 years experience and a serious passion for helping develop fellow professionals. He came ready with stories from his 28 years spent as an NKBA Instructor—from going around the country teaching courses to recently taking the classroom online—and we came ready to learn:

1. What are the biggest changes you’re experiencing in the industry, and how does NKBA U aid professionals in navigating those changes?

Technology has certainly been the biggest change. This state of constant connectivity affects every facet of our work and has made it so easy to keep a pulse on the latest design trends, especially through social platforms such as Houzz and Pinterest.

I’ve been an NKBA Instructor for 28 years and I’m still amazed at how the NKBA has evolved so much in just the past two years to better connect with and serve professionals in our industry—not just designers, but everyone in the kitchen and bath business. For 26 years I traveled around the country teaching three- and five-day courses. That meant those sitting in my classes were spending three to five days away from the office—not an easy thing, especially if you run your own business. Now it’s all online—one click and the industry’s top instructors are connecting with professionals all over the country. The convenience factor is huge, but that’s just part of it. When you look at the depth and breadth of what we’re teaching, the content has improved greatly, as well.

And don’t get me wrong, I love teaching in person, but I think our virtual courses offer a new level of connectivity that wasn’t there before. I see my course participants collaborate and connect through the social platforms we use—they’re networking and building these great relationships that last long after the course ends.

2. NKBA U now offers courses in communication, sales and marketing—why the introduction of these courses?

I think a lot of people hear “NKBA courses” and think they’re strictly for designers—for those getting their certification or those maintaining it. But we’re training builders and remodelers, dealers, manufacturers and representatives, as well as retailers. So our course offering has expanded to serve them. But these courses are just as relevant to designers. And as someone who first got into the kitchen and bath business on the sales side, I know firsthand how important it is.

Designers may be creatives by birth and education, but if you can’t sell, you can’t survive. That means knowing how to effectively connect with clients so you can tap into their wants and needs. That means being expert on the latest products—not only for the sake of trends, but to know what will make your client’s everyday life better. To be fair, there are a lot of salespeople who aren’t trained in the art of kitchen design, and that’s not good, either. But that’s the beauty of NKBA and NKBA University—it distinguishes us from the rest. And those who can wear both hats know success.

3. What’s one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned through your experiences as a K&B professional that you’re most passionate to share with your students in the courses you teach?

An art teacher was once asked, “What you think about this student of yours named Michelangelo? Could the student be better than the teacher?” The teacher replied, “If I teach him everything I know and he learns one more thing, he will be better than me”. My passion is to share my 44 years’ experience with my students so they will be a better kitchen and bath designer than I’ve been. Years ago at an industry award event, a young woman came up to me with her trophy in hand and said, “I got this because of what I learned from you in a beginner’s kitchen class”. While I appreciated the compliment, I told her it wasn’t just the knowledge from my course, but her innate creativity that resulted in her win.

4. Can you share a memorable experience from one of your classes? Maybe it was an "aha" moment for a student, or a noteworthy success.

While you learn a great deal through firsthand experience, I love seeing the light bulb go off when someone realizes why certification is so important.

I was teaching a five-day certification prep class in New Jersey, and after the first day, which focused heavily on construction and the mechanical systems in residential buildings, I ran into one of the interior designers taking my class at a nearby restaurant. She invited me to join her and shared something I’ll always remember:

“I’ve been an interior designer for 50 years,” she said. “And I thought I knew everything about kitchen and bath design. But almost everything on our first day is new to me, which tells me I have lots to learn.” There’s a misconception that prep courses are a technicality—that it covers stuff you can learn on your own through experience. But after one day in a prep class, she had a newfound appreciation for the certification process.

5. For people just starting out in the industry, the biggest question is often “where do I start?” What advice would you give to industry newcomers? What are the first courses they should take?

Great question. I have three different pieces of advice for that:

Do you want to specialize in kitchen or bath design?Let that answer guide your initial path and your introductory courses. Once that’s done, do the introductory courses for the other path, because I guarantee once you step foot in a client’s home, they’ll have you look at both the kitchen and bath.

The technical side of kitchen and bath design is simply a part of the business, so tackle it head-on with a course that addresses construction and mechanical issues that often pop up in residential spaces and challenge designers.

Does the firm you work for use a CAD program? If yes, enroll in either the 2020 CAD or Chief Architect CAD classes. But if you’re an independent designer and want to understand the drawings unique to the kitchen and bath industry, roll up your sleeves and take a drawing course offered by NKBA U.

Develop a topic and let your voice be heard!

The National Kitchen & Bath Association wants to hear from you at KBIS 2015 in Las Vegas.

The 2015 Voices From The Industry Conference Series will consist of over 100 conference speakers who represent all industry segments and every level of professional. The NKBA is looking for industry-relevant topics to be presented by you. Who better to address the topics that are relevant to today’s kitchen and bath professional, than the experts in the field?

Do you have a topic you are eager to share, a subject you have researched already or one you are ready to explore and develop? We want to hear from you!

All applications are due no later than Wednesday, May 28, 2014, at 12 noon Eastern Time.

Selected applicants will be notified by the beginning of August, 2014, and will be scheduled to speak at the 2015 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, January 20 – 22 in Las Vegas.

Want to see videos of the presenters from KBIS 2014? Click Here!

Conference Policies:

Individuals submitting a proposal must be currently employed within the kitchen and bath industry, or a student pursuing education to further their career in the kitchen and bath industry.

Individuals may submit a maximum of two proposals with different topics.

Professional audio or video recording of sessions is not permitted.

Voices from the Industry conference speakers (1 speaker per session) will receive a complimentary KBIS 2015 show floor pass, conference pass, and entry to the Opening Keynote, a package valued at over $300. You may have a co-speaker or assistant help you present, however, only one complimentary pass package will be issued. The co-speaker must be listed on your submission form in order for their name to be listed as a speaker.

Voices from the Industry conference speakers will not receive reimbursement for travel expenses or any additional compensation.

Speakers are responsible for bringing their own laptops, flash drives, and handouts.

Distribution of materials:

The speaker may not actively promote the sale of any such items during the course of the presentation. NO SALE OF ACTUAL BOOKS, DVDS OR AUDIO TAPES SHALL BE PERMITTED BY SPEAKER AT THE SITE.

Please be assured that you are most welcome to mention your name, bio, website, social handles etc. as part of the presentation. Additionally, you are more than welcome to have literature (flyers, brochures, handouts, cards, etc.) in the back of the room for attendees to take.

Selection Criteria

The NKBA will evaluate all proposals on key elements including:

Content relevance

Practical applications

Delivery methods

Variety of speakers

Video submissions are not necessary, but are strongly suggested for the selection committee. You are encouraged to include a video link which captures you speaking about your proposed topic. See the Providing a Video Example job aid for additional information.

No more than three submissions will be selected from employees from the same company.

Content Requirements

Submissions will only be accepted through the online submission form.

Please review the requirements carefully and refer to the video below to assist you with your proposal. The Submission Planning Worksheet can also be used to aid in your submission preparation when drafting your presentation proposal.

All sessions must be for informational purposes only

All submission topics must fall under one of four tracks:

Design & Inspiration

Business Management

Focus on the Customer

Sales & Marketing

All submission topics must include a title, description, presentation goals and delivery methods. NKBA reserves the right to edit the title and description for length and content.

Choose the target audience(s) from the provided list.

The presentation should have 30-45 minutes of content, with up to 15 minutes allotted for questions after presentation delivery. If you want approval for 0.1 CEU, you must be prepared to present for one hour.

A strong proposal will indicate how the attendee will be able to apply your presentation goals back on the job.

CEU Credit

Are you interested in submitting your session for review for .1 NKBA CEU credit? Approval applies to KBIS 2015 only. It cannot be transferred to another venue or presentation date.

CEU credit is not granted automatically to every Voices From The Industry session.

You must fill out additional information and make every effort to meet the NKBA standards for a CEU-worthy session.

Be prepared to speak for one hour.

Discover the advantage of having 0.1 CEU credit assigned to your session.

Learn more here.

2014 Summer/Fall CKD/CBD Exam Dates & Locations

Take your career to the next level by becoming certified with the NKBA in 2014! NKBA certification is based on in-depth testing and extensive industry experience. The examinations are developed in conjunction with the NKBA's Exam Development Committee.

Please find the 2014 Summer/Fall CKD/CBD exam dates and locations below:

• Tuesday, Aug. 19 – San Francisco

• Thursday, Aug. 21 – Denver

• Tuesday, Aug. 26 – Chicago

• Thursday, Aug. 28 – NYC

• Wednesday, Sept. 3 – Atlanta

• Friday, Sept. 5 - Toronto

Download your application at NKBA.org. Please note that applications for the 2014 Summer/Fall CKD and CBD design exams and retakes must be received at NKBA Headquarters by July 1st, 2014.

May - Upcoming Courses

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Designing with Color: Expand the Palette

Starts: Tuesday, May 06, 2014

Instructor: Ann Morris, CMKBD, CAPS, CfyH

Registration closes at 9:00 am on Monday, May 5, 2014.

How many times have you walked into a kitchen or bath and thought “Wow, the materials used in this bathroom are so luxurious, but there is something about the space that isn’t quite right.” In this course, we will unveil the mystery by identifying color mistakes often made by designers and learn how to correct the problem. We will be extracting information from paint manufacturer’s fandeck to assist in selecting the appropriate color for kitchen and bath designs, dissecting the importance of pigments used in color, examining the undertones of color to make a room stand out above the rest, and exploring how light affects the colors we choose.

Learn more here.

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Introduction to Consultative Selling

Starts: Monday, May 19, 2014

Instructor: Lynn Neillie, Richardson Sales Training and Strategy Execution™

In Introduction to Consultative Selling, you will learn and practice dialogue techniques for improving your conversations with clients. This 90-minute interactive webcast will focus on asking effective questions to uncover clients’ needs and priorities, positioning your solution in a compelling manner, and resolving objectives. You will have the opportunity to practice what you learn in realistic design sales situations and will receive feedback and coaching from the Richardson facilitator and from your peers.

Learn more here.

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Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) Exam Preparation

Starts: Friday, May 30, 2014

Instructor: Judith Neary, CMKBD

This course prepares the learner for the CKD examination by reviewing exam guidelines and completing practice design activities. Participants will focus on creating a design solution that incorporates the NKBA Kitchen Design Survey and Specification Forms, NKBA Kitchen Planning Guidelines, and Graphic and Presentation Standards.

This course meets for a series of four weeks. During the course, participants will be required to meet several times for live virtual instruction and complete a series of homework assignments to review and discuss with the instructor. Please see the schedule for total details.

Learn more here.

April - Upcoming Courses

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Free Webinar: Understanding Make-up Air Codes: Requirements

Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Presenter: David Newton, CMKBD

If you design a kitchen with a range hood that exceeds 400 CFM you may be required to provide an incoming, instantaneous and equal supply of fresh air into the home. Some states and Canada have a lower CFM requirement. Make-up air is discussed in NKBA Kitchen Planning Guideline #19. Not understanding IRC M 1503.1 could cost you a delay in the completion of your project and possibly an unexpected expense to you or your client.

Learn more here.

SOLD OUT

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Certified Bath Designer (CBD) Exam Preparation

Starts: Friday, April 25, 2014

Instructor: Judith Neary, CMKBD

This course prepares the learner for the CBD examination by reviewing exam guidelines and completing practice design activities. Participants will focus on creating a design solution that incorporates the NKBA Bath Design Survey and Specification Forms, NKBA Bath Planning Guidelines, and Graphic and Presentation Standards.

Learn more here.

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Designing with Color

Starts: Thursday, April 03, 2014

Instructor: Ann Morris, CMKBD, CAPS, CfyH

This course will cover the basics of the color wheel and how it applies to kitchen and bath designs. Learners will have the opportunity to explore how the psychology and physiology of color can enhance and impact a client’s personality. Participants will see examples of how color can transform an ordinary room into an extraordinary space. Learners will be given projects to complete outside of the live sessions and present information back to the larger group. These projects and the information in this course will enhance any participants’ professional designs and presentation boards.

Learn more here.

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Kitchen & Bath Project Management

Starts: Tuesday, April 08, 2014

Instructor: Jeffrey Holloway, CKD, CBD

This course will discuss project management practices from design concept to finished installation. Participants will learn the skills needed to accurately estimate costs, list product installation and construction details, and manage client expectations. This course is ideal for design firm owners, practicing designers, project managers and installation specialists.

Learn more here.

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Residential Green for Kitchen & Bath

Starts: Monday, April 21, 2014

Instructor: Darrill Andres, CKD

This course provides an informative view of green technologies and products for today’s practicing designer. While sound environmental principles are timeless the green movement is an evolving arena where innovation reigns supreme. As consumers demand healthier, highly efficient, and environmentally responsible living spaces, they expect those who design and specify products for their residences to respond to their concerns and direct them intelligently and responsibly to these ideals. The participants in this class will learn to evaluate products effectively by applying a wide range of criteria that identifies the true measure of a product’s impact on the environment and occupant health. Green certifications, sustainable organizations and market realities will be discussed and their relevance will be examined.

Learn more here.

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Kitchen & Bath Business Management

Starts: Monday, April 28, 2014

Instructor: Kimberly Morrison, ASID, IIDA, CKD, CBD, IDEC

Have you ever dreamed of owning your own K&B business?

This course will introduce you to the basic principles of business management and turn your dream into a reality. We will explore the step-by-step management tools to convert a novice business owner’s ideas into a profitable and successful business venture using modern concepts and methods. If you are a business owner and felt the effects from the economic downturn, this is a great opportunity to grow your business. You will gain additional insights and methods to improve your current business model.

Learn more here.

March - Upcoming Courses

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20-20 V10 Fast Track Kitchen Design

Starts: Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Instructor: Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS

NKBA CEUs: .3 NKBA Education Hours: 3

The basics of creating a kitchen using 20-20 Design in the least amount of time are the main focus of this newly created course. Attendees will learn how to manage Preferences and Display Settings that control the look of architectural documents necessary for the field. Real time kitchen design problems are completed during this instructor led class.

Learn more here.

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20-20 V9 Fast Track Kitchen Design

Starts: Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Instructor: Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS

NKBA CEUs: .3 NKBA Education Hours: 3

Learn more here.

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20-20 V10 Webinar Lighting and Tile

Starts: Thursday, March 13, 2014

Instructor: Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS

NKBA CEUs: .1 NKBA Education Hours: 1

This one hour webinar is ideal for the V10 user that wants to take 20-20 Design projects to another level by producing photo quality renderings with lighting, floor and wall tile, plus accessories. This is an action packed hour that includes many tips and hints that can take the average finished 20-20 Design and turn it into a magazine quality picture.

Learn more here.

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20-20 V10 Fast Track Bath Design

Starts: Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Instructor: Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS

NKBA CEUs: .3 NKBA Education Hours: 3

The basics of creating a bath using 20-20 Design in the least amount of time are the main focus of this newly created course. Attendees will learn how to manage Preferences and Display Settings that control the look of architectural documents necessary for the field. Real time kitchen design problems are completed during this instructor led class.

Read more here.

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20-20 V9 Fast Track Bath Design

Starts: Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Instructor: Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS

NKBA CEUs: .3 NKBA Education Hours: 3

Learn more here.

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20-20 V9 Webinar Lighting and Tile

Starts: Thursday, March 20, 2014

Instructor: Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS

NKBA CEUs: .1 NKBA Education Hours: 1

This one hour webinar is ideal for the V9 user that wants to take 20-20 Design projects to another level by producing photo quality renderings with lighting, floor and wall tile, plus accessories. This is an action packed hour that includes many tips and hints that can take the average finished 20-20 Design and turn it into a magazine quality picture.

Learn more here.

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AKBD Certification Exam Preparation

Starts: Tuesday, March 04, 2014

Instructor: David Newton, CMKBD

NKBA CEUs: 2.40 NKBA Education Hours: 24

This course will assist with the review of the materials and prepare the learner for the AKBD examination by reviewing the four domains of competencies and skills required of a certified professional: planning design, construction/mechanical systems, business management, and products/materials. This comprehensive program utilizes all 9 volumes of the NKBA Professional Resource Library (PRL).

Learn more here.

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Free Webinar: New Zealand Design, From 1960-2013 in 10 Years

Starts: Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Presenter: Debra DeLorenzo, Director, Debra DeLorenzo Design Ltd.

NKBA CEUs: .1

NKBA Education Hours: N/A

Isolation did strange things to New Zealand. At one stage, its only claim was the closest place to land a plane before the South Pole. Travel writers described it as a place where you could fire a cannon down the main street at midday of any town in New Zealand, and if you hit someone, you would be doing them a favor! The flight from America took 13 hours and took you 30 years into the past. But then something changed; during the 1990's a new awareness of New Zealand's place in the world came over the country. Instead of a cultural cringe, New Zealanders began to embrace their differences and celebrate them. The geographical isolation that formed its ideology became the driving force behind a massive surge in technological innovation and design. Join Debra DeLorenzo as she explores how her home country, New Zealand matured and find out what is really going on in the New Zealand design industry. This session will showcase innovative design and thinking from New Zealand and show how perceived geographical and technological disadvantages can be used to your advantage.

Learn more here.

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Kitchen & Bath Drawing

Starts: Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Instructor: David Newton, CMKBD

NKBA CEUs: .6 NKBA Education Hours: 6

This course describes the most common project documents used in the kitchen and bath industry today, tells participants how to prepare them, offers suggestions on presenting designs, and covers the NKBA’s Graphics and Presentation Standards to guide drawing practice.

Learn more here.

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Your Kitchen & Bath Business: Managing Change

Starts: Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Instructor: Nancy Barnes, NKBA, Director of Learning

NKBA CEUs: .1 NKBA Education Hours: 1

In today’s busy world, change is a normal part of running a business. It is happening all the time, from the systems, materials and processes we use, to the manufacturers and suppliers with whom we work, and each day brings new changes and new challenges. As a kitchen & bath professional, you know how important it is to keep yourself and your customers focused on the end result: A beautiful new kitchen or bath. However, changes in resources, vendors, building codes, etc., can lead to stress and frustration for the homeowner and for you if you aren’t prepared with tools and techniques to help others through the process.

Learn more here.

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AKBD Review (Century College)

Starts: Monday, March 24, 2014

Instructor: Margaret Krohn, CKD, ASID

NKBA CEUs: 2.4 NKBA Education Hours: 24

This online course for aspiring Associate Kitchen & Bath Designers (AKBD), Certified Kitchen Designers (CKD), and Certified Bath Designers (CBD) helps you to review the four domains of competencies and skills required of a certified professional: planning & design, construction/mechanical systems, products/materials and business management. This comprehensive program encompasses all 9 volumes of the NKBA Professional Resource Library.

Learn more here.

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Basic Kitchen and Bath Design (Century College)

Starts: Monday, March 24, 2014

Instructor: Margaret Krohn, CKD, ASID

NKBA CEUs: 1.00 NKBA Education Hours: 10

This comprehensive course covers the basics of good kitchen and bath design. You will learn and apply NKBA guidelines for kitchen and bath design in accordance with the NKBA presentation standards. Topics include the elements and principles of design, anthropometrics, proxemics, good space planning techniques and design, along with calculating storage for kitchen spaces. You will also work with the NKBA forms including the client survey and specification forms. Learn how to sell your ideas with a design statement and how to put components of kitchen and bath spaces together. Assignments will be hand graded with feedback.

Learn more here.

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Hand Drafting Techniques (Century College)

Starts: Monday, March 24, 2014

Instructor: Margaret Krohn, CKD, ASID

NKBA CEUs: 1.00 NKBA Education Hours: 10

This comprehensive hand drafting course covers the true drafting techniques you will need to produce professionally hand drafted drawings in accordance with NKBA presentation standards. Drawings include dimensioned floor plan, dimensioned interior elevation, electrical plan, isometric and perspective drawing. Techniques covered include measuring a space, using the proper drafting tools, symbols for all drawings, traffic flow, and other information necessary to produce drawings for kitchen and bath spaces. All assignments will be hand graded with feedback and tips for drafting.

Learn more here.

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Design and Drafting with Chief Architect for Kitchen & Bath

Starts: Monday, March 24, 2014

Instructor: Margaret Krohn, CKD, ASID

NKBA CEUs: 1.00 NKBA Education Hours: 10

This basic level computer-aided drafting (CAD) course focuses on architectural drafting using Chief Architect software. Contents of the course include a system overview and skills needed to draft kitchen and bathroom plans with Chief Architect. Techniques focus on commands necessary to draft floor plans, elevations, perspectives, and other pictorial representations. Projects will be submitted via mail, fax, online drop box or email for instructor evaluation and feedback. Completion Certificate and NKBA Education Hours will be awarded upon successful completion.

Learn more here.

THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR WALKING… AT DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION WEEK

Tell us your step count at KBIS 2014!

We want to know, how far does one really walk during KBIS? We're going to find out using our CEO, Bill Darcy as our test subject. We've equipped Bill with a SyncBurn watch to track his progress and we want you to join the fun! Awesome prizes are up for grabs in the NKBA booth so lace up those shoes and hit the show floor!

INSTRUCTIONS: Tweet your distance to @thenkba using the #KBISathon hashtag or stop by our booth N2163 at #KBIS2014 and share your progress with us to be entered in to win daily prizes!

PRIZE: T-Shirts, Hats and FREE NKBA University Courses!

Then & Now: Staying Power

Two industry stalwarts, Kohler and Wellborn, are among the exhibitors that have been supporting the NKBA industry show for generations. The "Bold Look" of these 1970s Kohler sinks would still be right at home in a modern, stylish bathroom today. And while Wellborn still makes "the kitchen your client wants," those wants have clearly changed since 1980!

Then & Now: Best Kitchens

Some 30 years ago, these were two of the top kitchens in the AIKD design contest, featuring Early American and French Provincial cabinetry. Don’t miss the 2014 Design Competition winners at KBIS this year in the NKBA Booth #N2163.

Then & Now: Biggest Introductions Ever

In 1968 Formica announced its "biggest introduction ever": 68 new colors ranging from bold to subtle, all of them exciting and new. Manufacturers continue to outdo themselves, rolling out unique new products and smart innovations, many of which will be unveiled at the new Design and Construction Week event in Las Vegas, February 4-6, 2014. With KBIS and IBS together for the first time, it just keeps getting bigger and better.

Sneak Peek: Coming this January & February

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Introduction to Kitchen Design — David Newton, CMKBD

AKBD Virtual Study Review — Randy Knott, CKD, CAPS

CKBP Virtual Study Review — Randy Knott, CKD, CAPS

Trends in Kitchen-Adjacent Spaces (Free Webinar) — Moorea Hoffman

KBIS Courses — See conference details at www.KBIS.com

December - Upcoming Courses

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December 10 20-20 V10 Fast Track Kitchen Design Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS

December 11 20-20 V9 Fast Track Kitchen Design Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS Have you heard about the new NKBA University? NKBA Learning & Development will be hosting a free webinar regarding NKBA University on Friday, November 15 at 12 noon ET. This 45 minute webinar will provide an overview of NKBA’s exciting new learning paths and course offerings. You’ll discover why continuing education is vitally important to your career and business. Please make sure to attend, and share any questions with us. This webinar will be held using our online tool, Blackboard Collaborate. Learn More

December 12 20-20 V10 Webinar Lighting and Tile Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS This one hour webinar is ideal for the V10 user that wants to take 20-20 Design projects to another level by producing photo quality renderings with lighting, floor and wall tile, plus accessories. This is an action packed hour that includes many tips and hints that can take the average finished 20-20 Design and turn it into a magazine quality picture. Learn More

December 17 20-20 V10 Fast Track Bath Design Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS The basics of creating a bath using 20-20 Design in the least amount of time are the main focus of this newly created course. Attendees will learn how to manage Preferences and Display Settings that control the look of architectural documents necessary for the field. Real time kitchen design problems are completed during this instructor led class. Learn More

December 18 20-20 V9 Fast Track Bath Design Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS The basics of creating a kitchen using 20-20 Design in the least amount of time are the main focus of this newly created course. Attendees will learn how to manage Preferences and Display Settings that control the look of architectural documents necessary for the field. Real time kitchen design problems are completed during this instructor led class. Learn More

December 19 20-20 V9 Webinar Lighting and Tile Morton Block, CMKBD, IIDA, CAPS This one hour webinar is ideal for the V9 user that wants to take 20-20 Design projects to another level by producing photo quality renderings with lighting, floor and wall tile, plus accessories. This is an action packed hour that includes many tips and hints that can take the average finished 20-20 Design and turn it into a magazine quality picture. Learn More

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December 11 Delving Deep into Design of Today and Tomorrow Mike Hetherman, CKD With a strong focus on the idea that "Form Follows Function", "Inspiration" encompasses the best of practical yet imaginative kitchen and bath design concepts. From moving countertops to sliding walls, from uniquely integrated work surfaces to appliance trends that are changing the way kitchens function, this session offers an all-encompassing look at the interesting and ever-changing world of interior design. In addition to capturing the design trends of today – and design trends that are yet to come – this session outlines the key characteristics and qualifications in identifying how to make informed decisions about selecting the right surfacing material for each and every consumer. This idea of "educating the consumer" aims to end consumer confusion in regards to the vast array of surfacing options and simplifies surfacing choices down to two categories: "hard and shiny" vs. "seamless/integrated". Learn More

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December 4 Kitchen & Bath Drawing David Newton, CMKBD This course describes the most common project documents used in the kitchen and bath industry today, tells participants how to prepare them, offers suggestions on presenting designs, and covers the NKBA’s Graphics and Presentation Standards to guide drawing practice. Learn More

December 10 Managing Your Career Tim Donahue, Principal, Talent Directions, LLC Is your career something that just happens or perhaps happens to you? This course will help you get started on Managing Your Own Career by taking the self-directed approach to your professional journey. A key element of this session will be a model for effective career development. Other topics include the power of feedback to enhance your growth, as well as strategies for maintaining your momentum for maximum impact. Learn More

Watch a Short Video

Then & Now: Petrie Named President

Eleven years ago, Les Petrie, CMKBD, cut the ribbon at the opening session of KBIS 2003 as NKBA president. In 2014, his son John Petrie, CMKBD, of MH Custom Cabinetry in Mechanicsburg, Pa., is slated to head the organization, making them the first father-and-son team ever to have held this office.

Then & Now: Be There Where It Counts

"Be there where it counts," urged an ad for the 1966 AIKD show. "The biggest show in the U.S. devoted exclusively to kitchens. Know first about the latest innovations in products, design, methods and systems. It will mean a more successful 1966 for you. You'll be ahead with AIKD." Design and Construction Week is just around the corner, and we think these words apply to the excitement of the next KBIS just as well as they did to AIKD almost fifty years ago.

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