The APA Expo is the must-attend event for professionals in sublimation, laser engraving, UV printing, sandcarving, and heat transfer. Each year, hundreds of personalization business owners and industry leaders gather to discover new techniques, explore innovative equipment, and gain business insights.
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Here's a detailed look at the 2026 schedule:
Tuesday, February 24
Getting Started with AI: Transforming the Awards & Personalization Industry
7:30-9:00 AM
Justin Varn, Awards4U
Session Code 101
Explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the Awards & Personalization industry in this welcoming, beginner-friendly session. Whether you're a small business or a large-scale operation, you'll discover how AI can simplify workflows, reduce errors, speed up production, and elevate customer satisfaction—no technical background required.
Through hands-on demonstrations with tools like Google Gemini, ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and others, you'll gain practical insights and the confidence to begin applying AI in your business today. Bring your laptop fully charged for this session!
0.15 CEUs Business
CorelDRAW vs. LightBurn: 10 Key Tips for Laser Operators
7:30-9:00 AM
Randy Allen, CRS, Engraving Concepts
Session Code 102
Choosing the right software can make all the difference in laser engraving efficiency and output. This session offers a clear, beginner-friendly overview of CorelDRAW and LightBurn—two leading platforms in the industry. Attendees will gain practical insights into 10 key benefits of each program and learn how to evaluate which solution aligns best with their workflow and production goals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to optimize your current setup, this session will help you make informed decisions with confidence.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Maximizing the Power of UV Printing and Laser Engraving: Advanced Techniques for Personalization Pros
7:30-9:00 AM
Susan Cox, LogoJET, Inc.
Session Code 103
Already have a laser and UV printer but mostly using them for basic logos? It’s time to level up. This advanced session is built for busy personalization pros who want to get more creative and more efficient with the tools they already own.
We’ll explore high-impact applications that go beyond the basics—like layering textures, mixing materials, and creating full-color designs with engraved detail. You’ll learn smart design tips to maintain registration, reduce waste, and streamline setup. We’ll also cover workflow strategies to help you take on more jobs without adding equipment (or stress).
Whether you're looking for fresh product ideas or ways to run a faster, smoother shop, this session will give you real takeaways you can put to work right away—with just the right mix of insight and energy to keep it fun.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Harnessing UV Galvo Lasers for the Awards & Personalization Industry
9:30-11:00 AM
Tom Tamburrini, Full Spectrum Laser
Session Code 111
UV galvo laser technology is reshaping how awards and personalized products are decorated—offering unmatched precision, speed, and versatility. This session provides a clear, practical overview of UV laser systems, focusing on how they compare to sandblasting and CO₂ lasers for the materials and applications most common in the industry.
Participants will learn how UV galvo lasers perform on glass, plastics, coated metals, and more, while exploring their key advantages and limitations in real-world production environments. Beyond the technical insights, this session also examines the business case and ROI potential, including cost savings, throughput improvements, and opportunities for premium pricing that can transform your bottom line.
As a bonus, we’ll explore the exciting application of sub-surface (inside-the-glass) engraving—a unique capability that can set your offerings apart from the competition. Business owners, production managers, and decorators looking to understand both the technical capabilities and financial impact of adopting UV galvo laser technology.
0.15 CEUs Technical
AI Meets AI- Adobe Illustrator and Artificial Intelligence
9:30-11:00 AM
Michael Mullins, Sonoma Laser Engraving/Laser911
Session Code 112
In this class, you will learn how to generate art for laser engraving using AI tools and how to manipulate that art to make it ready for all your laser engraving projects! Join me on this "AI meets AI" journey, as I share my tips and tricks when using Adobe Illustrator and create some mind blowing art using AI tools! Bring your fully charged laptop to get the most from this session. This class is best taken with a laptop that has chat gpt installed on it (preferably the paid version) and Adobe Illustrator Creative Cloud. Project files will be provided to follow along on the exercises.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Custom Award Fabrication A to Z
9:30-11:00 AM
Braden & Alison Todd, GS2 Awards
Session Code 113
Offering custom awards can make your business stand out, as long as your awards are able to physically stand up (and look amazing)!
This session will cover the ins and outs of custom award fabrication, including file design, material processing, decoration, assembly, and more.
Real-world tips, tricks and techniques will be shared and you will leave the session with the knowledge, confidence and tools to bring custom award offerings to your own business. We will also discuss how the custom fabrication techniques covered in the presentation can be applied to a wide range of products beyond just awards.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Crack the UV Code: From Blank to Brilliance Using the Epson V1070
12:30-2:00 PM
Cheryl Kuchek, CRS, Just My Imagination Dezigns, sponsored by JPPlus
Session Code 121
In this no-fluff session, we’ll crack the code on the Epson V1070 and show you why UV printing is the creative edge your business has been waiting for. Whether you're just curious or already own the V1070, this deep dive will help you unlock stunning results on acrylic, wood, leather, metal, and more. Learn how to create eye-catching layers, bold textures, and high-gloss finishes that create show-stopping results. This isn’t just a demo, it’s your all-access pass to discovering what’s really possible when you go beyond the surface. Walk away with confidence and the know-how to turn your UV printer into a creative powerhouse that will help take you to the next level.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Get Your "Ducks in a Row" So You Can Grow
12:30-2:00 PM
Pamela Deats-Connaly, Custom Built Awards
Session Code 122
Growing a successful personalization business starts with a solid foundation. In this practical session, you'll learn how to strategically set up your showroom, invest in the right equipment, and attract clients aligned with your strengths. Discover how to avoid common pitfalls, make smart purchasing decisions, and create a business plan that supports sustainable growth. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this session will help you get your “ducks in a row” so you can grow with confidence.
0.15 CEUs Marketing
Color Matching for Sublimation
12:30-2:00 PM
Stacy Benning, JDS Industries
Session Code 123
Sublimation printing is a fantastic way to produce vibrant and
long-lasting prints on various materials. However, achieving accurate color matching can be challenging due to different substrates, inks, and environmental conditions. This class is for color matching that ensures consistent quality and satisfaction for your sublimation projects. Whether you are new to sublimation or an experienced pro, you’ll walk away with knowledge to elevate your sublimation projects like never before!
0.15 CEUs Technical
From One-Color Engraving to Full-Color Printing in CorelDRAW
2:30-4:00 PM
Clay Barbera, CorelTRAINER
Session Code 131
This session begins with foundational CorelDRAW skills, including bitmap-to-vector tracing and logo customization for engraving and imprinting. From there, we’ll explore advanced techniques—applying high-end effects and digital enhancements to elevate your artwork. Finally, you'll learn how to present your multi-format designs by creating custom proposal forms that include product visuals and company branding. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this session offers valuable takeaways for everyone.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Ultra-Thin Veneer Stone -- A New Frontier in High-Value Personalization
2:30-4:00 PM
Mike Nickel, StoneLite Designs Ltd.
Session Code 132
Move beyond wood, acrylic, and metal to explore the industry's next major innovation: real, laser-cuttable stone. This session will demystify the process of working with ultra-thin natural stone veneers, a groundbreaking material now accessible to the personalization industry. Attendees will learn how to cut, engrave, and UV print on this high-end substrate to create stunning, high-margin products. We will cover the material science, fabrication best practices, and the vast new product opportunities it presents, from awards and signage to decor and architectural elements. This is an essential session for any professional seeking to differentiate their business and capitalize on a new, profitable market.
0.15 CEUs Technical
From Green to Great - Training New Employees in the Awards & Personalization Industry
2:30-4:00 PM
Megan Raymond, Raymond's Trophy & Awards
Session Code 133
This session provides a step-by-step framework for on-boarding and training new hires with no prior experience in engraving or personalization. You'll learn how
to teach technical skills, reinforce quality standards, and build confidence - while keeping production running smoothly.
0.15 CEUs Business
Sandcarving Essentials: Techniques and Creative Possibilities
4:30-6:00 PM
Liz Haas, Rayzist Photomask
Session Code 141
Sandcarving offers endless creative and business opportunities. This class is your guide to mastering its techniques and applications. You will learn how to produce high-quality etched products using the right photoresist films, blasting pressure, proper blasting grit, and artwork setup for a variety of surfaces—from glass and wood to stone and curved items. The session will cover how to adjust designs for depth and detail, how to select and apply color fills, and how to present Sandcarved products with a high-end finish. Whether you’re new to Sandcarving or looking to improve your current process, this class provides hands-on insights to unlock the full potential of this versatile craft.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Personalization Pros Roundtable Discussion
4:30-6:00 PM
Session Code 142
Join fellow Personalization Pros in a dynamic roundtable discussion moderated by seasoned experts from the personalization industry. This session will allow for peer discussion on four components of business success—AI Utilization, Production Efficiency, Sales Pipeline Development, and Scaling Your Business. Whether you're a small shop looking to grow or an established company seeking innovation, this interactive format will allow you to share insights, ask questions, and learn from peers navigating similar challenges. Bring your experiences, ideas, and curiosity to explore how technology and strategy can elevate your operations.
0.15 CEUs Business
CorelDraw: The Next Big Step – Tools, Techniques, and Macros to Work Smarter
4:30-6:00 PM
Doug Green, Express Yourself
Session Code 143
Ready to take your CorelDraw skills to the next level? This session dives into advanced features and productivity boosters that will help you design with more speed, precision, and creativity. We’ll explore lesser-known but powerful tools, time-saving techniques, and the game-changing world of macros. Participants will not only learn how to create their own macros but also discover where to find free, ready-to-use ones that streamline repetitive tasks. Whether you’re working on complex designs or simply want to reduce production time, this class will give you the strategies to draw faster and smarter in CorelDraw.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Wednesday, February 25
Hands-on Session: Blazering- Merging Technologies
7:30-10 AM
Darin Jones, IKONICS Imaging and Braden Todd, Trotec
Session Code 401
This hands-on technical session explores the innovative fusion of two distinct but complementary technologies, laser engraving and sandcarving. Seminar participants gain insight on how to upsell to glass customers by transitioning from their laser's shallow etch to the smooth-sanded, deep-carve capabilities of a sandcarver. In addition, participants will work with substrates that were traditionally difficult with lasers, such as polished metals and hard ceramic glazes. Instructors, Darin Jones of IKONICS Imaging and Braden Todd of Trotec, are experts in their respective technologies. Darin and Braden will empower participants with a working knowledge to combine laser with sandcarving in one process to enhance offerings.
.25 CEU Technical
Price - $125 Members/$150 Non Member
2026 Business Breakthroughs: Targeted Strategies for UV, Laser & Embroidery
7:30-8:30 AM
Steve Weist, PDS Equipment
Session Code 201
Hit your target by delivering the right product to the right customer at the right time! This session explores business development strategies tailored to the personalization industry, with a focus on UV printing, laser engraving, and embroidery. Learn how to specialize, identify your ideal customer base, and position your products for maximum impact and growth in 2026.
0.1 CEUs Marketing
Laser-Focused Profits: The Power of On-Site Engraving
7:30-8:30 AM
Sumita & Anuj Patel, Home Bound Custom Decor
Session Code 202
Ready to take your creative business on the road? In this session, we’ll show you how to turn on-site engraving into a high-impact, high-profit service. Whether you're personalizing products at pop-ups, brand activations, or private events, live engraving offers a unique opportunity to create unforgettable moments—and steady income.
We'll cover:
- What equipment you need to get started
- Pricing strategies that maximize profit
- How to attract corporate and retail clients
- Real-world case studies from successful events
- Tips for creating a smooth, professional experience onsite
Perfect for makers, small business owners, and engravers looking to expand their services beyond the studio. Come learn how to turn your craft into a profitable, mobile experience that brands and clients love.
0.1 CEUs Business
Elevate Your Acrylic Designs
7:30-8:30 AM
Chelsea Sauder, Houston Acrylic
Session Code 203
Have your acrylic projects ever felt... well, flat? With so many styles, acrylic is a popular material for laser crafters, but it is still just a sheet of plastic. Join Chelsea from Houston Acrylic, as she goes over different techniques and trends you can use to make your acrylic projects stand out. From picking the perfect palette to dual engraving techniques, discover how to craft your acrylic into art.
0.1 CEUs Technical
Ai and Voice Search Optimization for Local Small Businesses
9:00-10:00 AM
Eddie Hill, CRM,Award Masters Inc.
Session Code 211
Ai and voice search is here and is more important than ever. This class will show you exactly how to optimize your Google Business Profile and your website for Google SGE (Search Generative Experience), Google Gemini, Perplexity Ai, ChatGPT, You.com, & Bing Copilot.
0.1 CEUs Marketing
Panel: Brand, Business, and Growth: Strengthening B2B and B2C Relationships
9:00-10:00 AM
Moderator: Aaron Montgomery, American Print
Sumita Patel, HomeBound Custom Decor
Kurt Heims, Heims Awards
Josh Perry, Perry Designs
Session Code 212
Success in the personalization industry depends on more than just great products—it requires a clear brand identity, strong customer relationships, and a thoughtful approach to growth. This session explores how to define and communicate your value, build authentic connections with both businesses and consumers, and create a sustainable strategy for expansion.
Attendees will learn how to position their brand for impact, identify and engage ideal customers, and balance marketing efforts with operational readiness. From local market dominance to community-building and scaling wisely, this session offers practical insights to help you grow with purpose and confidence.
0.1 CEUs Business
Start Smart - What to Know Before Adding UV Printing to Your Laser Business
9:00-10:00 AM
Stephanie Murphy, The Country Porch Swing
Session Code 213
Thinking about adding UV printing to your business? This session breaks down what you actually need to know before jumping in. We’ll cover machine types, space and setup considerations, materials, adhesion tips, and basic maintenance. You’ll also see how UV printing can work alongside other techniques like laser cutting and sandblasting. Whether you’re exploring the option or already planning to invest, this session will help you make an informed decision with less stress and fewer surprises.
0.1 CEUs Technical
Thursday, February 26
Hands-on Session: How to Color Fill Etched Products
7:30-10:00 AM
Liz Haas, Rayzist Photomask
Session Code 403
In this hands-on session, you'll explore various paint techniques by painting a wine bottle and a rock. You'll learn the recommended methods for applying paint to different materials, enhancing the value and appeal of your sandcarved products by adding a color fill. Whether it's glass, stone, wood, or metal, a color fill adds contrast and beauty to the etched areas, potentially expanding your product line and increasing profits. You don't need to be an artist—just knowledgeable about your materials!
.25 CEU Technical
Price - $125 Member/$150 Non Member
Systems & Soul: The Essential Tools Every Creative Needs to Thrive in Business
7:30-8:30AM
Marna Friedman, Created by Marna
Session Code 301
Creative entrepreneurs are visionaries—but even the best ideas need structure to thrive. In this practical session, business strategist and creative entrepreneur Marna Friedman shares four essential tools to help you run a successful business: a professional website, a CRM, an email marketing platform, and simple financial tools.
Whether you're a freelancer, product-based business owner, or service provider, you'll learn how to choose the right tools, connect them into a seamless system, and avoid tech overwhelm. Expect real-life examples, templates, and actionable steps to help you stay organized, show up consistently, and build a business that supports your creativity.
0.1 CEUs Business
Five Jobs I Messed Up & How I Fixed Them
7:30-8:30 AM
Lori Champagne, Champagne Engraving
Session Code 302
Mistakes happen -- from engraving the wrong name to lasering text backwards, to chipping corners of glass. What can you do? Step one: DON'T PANIC! Don't toss it in the trash. Take a deep breath and find a solution. In 30 years of engraving, Lori Champagne has had many mis-engravings. She will show attendees five projects she messed up, and the steps she took to fix them. Methods will include lasering, sandblasting, and diamond point engraving.
0.1 CEUs Technical
Mastering LightBurn: 30 Advanced Tips to Elevate Your Laser Projects
7:30-8:30 AM
Robert Kofoed, Computer Creations
Session Code 303
Ready to take your LightBurn skills to the next level? This session is packed with advanced techniques that experienced users rely on to create high-impact, profitable laser projects. Whether you're looking to improve efficiency, unlock new features, or explore creative possibilities, you'll leave with practical insights and fresh inspiration. Join us and elevate your LightBurn expertise!
0.1 CEUs Technical
Curating Your Craft: Mastering Your Niche for Success
9:00-10:30 AM
Alisha Pate, Pate Ranch Creations
Session Code 311
Discover the art of carving out your unique space in the market by blending passion, precision, and purpose. This presentation explores how selecting the right tools and products that align with your personal style can transform your journey into a thriving, authentic business. Learn to target clients who connect with your vision, streamline your efforts, and build lasting success by embracing your niche with confidence and creativity.
0.15 CEUs Business
Panel: The Future of Personalization: Technology, Innovation, and Industry Insights
9:00 - 10:30 AM
Session Code 312
This panel session offers a grounded look at the current state of the personalization industry—where it’s been, where it stands, and where it’s headed. Featuring insights from leading suppliers, the discussion will explore how technology continues to shape the industry, from foundational tools to cutting-edge innovations.
Panelists will examine the practical impacts of emerging technologies such as AI, automation, and intelligent systems, and how they’re being integrated into personalization workflows. You'll also hear about the latest advancements in equipment and how these tools are expanding creative possibilities and operational efficiency.
0.15 CEUs Business
Smarter, Faster, More Personal: AI Strategies for the Awards Industry
9:00-10:30 AM
Justin Varn, Awards4U
Session Code 313
Ready to level up your AI skills? This fast-paced session is designed for awards and personalization professionals who’ve explored AI and are ready to unlock its full potential. Learn how to supercharge your social media, automate tasks, and build intelligent AI agents that help you focus on growing your business.
We’ll explore real-world applications using powerful tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and AutoPilot to streamline workflows, enhance customer experiences, and work smarter across your business. Discover how to generate personalized content, harness data insights, and prepare for the future of AI in the awards industry.
0.15 CEUs Business
General Education Sessions
General sessions are classroom-style workshops that promote active discussion amongst attending personalization professionals. These workshops cover key topics in personalization including laser engraving, sublimation, UV printing, heat transfer, and software such as CorelDRAW, Adobe, LightBurn. Sessions also highlight the most current ideas and best practices in business, technical, and marketing.
Learning Lounge
These 30-minute sessions offer high-level takeaways to grow your personalization business. All Learning Lounge sessions are free to attend on the show floor, and no registration is required.
Explore Learning Lounge Sessions
Hands On Sessions
During these intensive training courses, you will have the opportunity to practice your skills while receiving personal attention and guidance from expert instructors. Past sessions have highlighted blazering—combining laser engraving and sandcarving, CorelDRAW, UV printing, and more.
See All Hands On Sessions
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