ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Textile Care Allied Trades Association (TCATA) hosted its 2026 Management & Educational Conference at the Omni Grove Park Inn here earlier this month.

The association says the “Summit of Possibilities”-themed event was well-attended, bringing together manufacturers, distributors, and industry partners for four days of education, networking, and association activities.

“The Asheville conference was a wonderful example of what TCATA does best: bringing our industry together,” says Executive Director Luci Pettys. “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.”

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 of 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.

Networking remained a major component, with members reconnecting with longtime industry colleagues and welcoming new attendees to the TCATA community. Conference activities extended beyond the Grove Park Inn. 

Asheville’s oldest brewery, Highland Brewery, hosted the Kickoff event. Attendees also visited Biltmore Estate, experiencing one of the region’s best-known destinations while continuing to build industry relationships.

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 new president.

TCATA also welcomed three new members to its Board of Directors: James Baker of The Minnesota Chemical Co., 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.

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.

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 event’s success. 

The next Management & Educational Conference is scheduled for April 25-28, 2027, at The Meritage in Napa Valley, California.