Explore the Schedule
Though the 2026 APA Expo has concluded, we invite you to explore the schedule to get a sense of the type of programs offered each year. Whether you’re a seasoned personalization professional or just starting your journey, there’s always something for everyone.
Monday, February 23
5:00–7:00 PM
Registration Open
Tuesday, February 24
7:00 AM–5:00 PM
Registration Open
7:30-9:00 AM
Getting Started with AI: Transforming the Awards & Personalization Industry
CorelDRAW vs. LightBurn: 10 Key Tips for Laser Operators
9:30-11:00 AM
Harnessing UV Galvo Lasers for the Awards & Personalization Industry
AI Meets AI- Adobe Illustrator and Artificial Intelligence
Custom Award Fabrication A to Z
12:30-2:00 PM
Crack the UV Code: From Blank to Brilliance Using the Epson V1070
Get Your “Ducks in a Row” So You Can Grow
Color Matching for Sublimation
2:30-4:00 PM
From One-Color Engraving to Full-Color Printing in CorelDRAW
Ultra-Thin Veneer Stone — A New Frontier in High-Value Personalization
From Green to Great – Training New Employees in the Awards & Personalization Industry
4:30-6:00 PM
Sandcarving Essentials: Techniques and Creative Possibilities
Personalization Pros Roundtable Discussion
CorelDraw: The Next Big Step – Tools, Techniques, and Macros to Work Smarter
Wednesday, February 25
7:00 AM–4:30 PM
Registration Open
7:30-10 AM
Hands-on Session: Blazering- Merging Technologies
7:30-8:30 AM
2026 Business Breakthroughs: Targeted Strategies for UV, Laser & Embroidery
Laser-Focused Profits: The Power of On-Site Engraving
8:00 AM–4:30 PM
9:00-10:00 AM
Ai and Voice Search Optimization for Local Small Businesses
Panel: Brand, Business, and Growth: Strengthening B2B and B2C Relationships
Start Smart – What to Know Before Adding UV Printing to Your Laser Business
10:00 AM-4:30 PM
1:00-2:00 PM
4:30-6:00 PM
Thursday, February 26
7:00 AM–4:30 PM
Registration Open
7:30-10:00 AM
Hands-on Session: Laser-Cut Appliqués: Hands-On Design + Fabrication
Hands-on Session: How to Color Fill Etched Products
7:30-8:30AM
Systems & Soul: The Essential Tools Every Creative Needs to Thrive in Business
Five Jobs I Messed Up & How I Fixed Them
Mastering LightBurn: 30 Advanced Tips to Elevate Your Laser Projects
8:00 AM–4:30 PM
9:00-10:30 AM
Smarter, Faster, More Personal: AI Strategies for the Awards Industry
Panel: The Future of Personalization: Embracing the Next Wave of Innovation
Curating Your Craft: Mastering Your Niche for Success
10:00 AM-4:30 PM
6:00-7:30 PM
Gold Obelisk Award Celebration
Friday, February 27
7:30 AM–12:00 PM
Registration Open
8:00 AM-9:30 AM
APA Member Breakfast and Annual Meeting
8:00 AM–12:00 PM
ARIEF Silent Auction Item Pickup
9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Education Schedule
Education Schedule The APA Expo kicks off on Tuesday, February 23 with a full day of general education sessions. The show floor will open the following day on Wednesday, February 25
- Tuesday, February 23 | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday, February 24 | 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM
- Thursday, February 25 | 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Trade Show Floor Hours
- Wednesday, February 24 | 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday, February 25 | 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday, February 26 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Networking Opportunities
Some of the best connections at APA Expo happen in the aisles, lobbies, and nearby spots, but the Expo also hosts great networking events where ideas and opportunities are shared.
- First Time Attendee Welcome | Wednesday, February 24
- Party on the Show Floor | Wednesday, February 24
- New Product Showcase | Wednesday, February 24 – Friday, February 26
- Awards Celebration | Thursday, February 25
- APA Member Breakfast | Friday, February 26