2026 Conference Recap
TCATA Wraps Successful 2026 Conference in Asheville
(August, 2026) ASHEVILLE, NC — TCATA welcomed members of the textile care industry to Asheville, North Carolina, Aug. 2–5 for its 2026 Management & Educational Conference at the Omni Grove Park Inn.
Held under the theme “Summit of Possibilities,” the well-attended conference brought together manufacturers, distributors and industry partners for four days of education, networking and association activities.
The centerpiece of the educational program was an interactive economic and geopolitical simulation led by Alex and Eugene Chausovsky of 3DM Consulting. Attendees worked through hypothetical scenarios reflecting economic and geopolitical challenges that could affect their businesses, followed by analysis and discussion of current economic conditions and what companies should be watching in the months ahead.
Patti Rausch of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) addressed one of the most rapidly evolving issues facing businesses today: artificial intelligence. Her presentation focused on practical ways companies can incorporate AI into their operations and provided attendees with strategies and tools they can apply within their own organizations.
Brian Wild, Chief Government Relations Officer with the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) provided attendees with a timely government affairs update, highlighting legislative and regulatory developments affecting businesses. His presentation offered insight into the current policy landscape and key issues companies should be watching as they plan for the months ahead.
Networking remained a major component of the conference, with members reconnecting with longtime industry colleagues and welcoming new attendees to the TCATA community. Conference activities extended beyond the Grove Park Inn. The Kickoff event took place at Asheville’s oldest brewery, Highland Brewery. Attendees also visited Asheville’s Biltmore Estate, giving attendees and guests an opportunity to experience one of the region’s best-known destinations while continuing to build industry relationships.
TCATA Welcomes New Leadership and Board Members
The conference also marked an important leadership transition for the association. Mack Magnus of M & B Hangers passed the gavel to Rusty Smith of Forenta, who begins his term as TCATA’s next president.
TCATA also welcomed three new members to its Board of Directors: James Baker of MN Chemicals, Chip Ottman of R.W. Martin and Kristen Vos of R.R. Street & Co. Inc.
The association recognized outgoing board members Kelly Kelleher of Kelleher Casares Equipment and John Silverman of Tschopp Supply and thanked them for their years of service and contributions to TCATA as they completed their tenure on the Board.
Five Companies Celebrate 25 Years of TCATA Membership
TCATA recognized five longtime member companies celebrating 25 years of association membership: B&C Technologies, Energenics, Kreussler, Richclean and Sankosha USA.
The anniversary recognition celebrated the companies’ longstanding support of TCATA and their continued involvement in the textile care industry.
“The Asheville conference was a wonderful example of what TCATA does best: bringing our industry together,” said Luci Ward Pettys, TCATA Executive Director. “Our speakers gave members valuable information they can take back to their businesses, but equally important were the conversations and connections taking place throughout the conference. We were also proud to recognize the companies and individuals who have given so much to TCATA while welcoming a new group of leaders who will help guide the association forward.”
TCATA thanked Conference Chair Wes Nelson of Sankosha USA, Business Committee Chair Kristen Vos of R.R. Street & Co. Inc., members of the Business Committee, conference sponsors, speakers and attendees for their contributions to the success of the event. The next Management & Educational Conference will be held April 25-28, 2027 at The Meritage in Napa Valley, CA.
