Don't miss out on the exceptional educational opportunities available at the International Personalization Expo. Our comprehensive schedule features over 30 sessions covering a wide range of topics to help you enhance your skills and scale your business in the personalization industry.
Whether you're just starting your business or are a long-time, family-owned business, there is something for everyone to learn. Familiar favorites will return this year along with some exciting new offerings.
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General Education Sessions
General sessions are classroom-style workshops that promote active discussion amongst attending makers and 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.
See the Education Schedule
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
Here's a detailed look at the 2025 schedule:
Tuesday, February 4
Adobe Illustrator Pro Tips For Your Laser Engraving Business
7:30-9:00 AM
Michael Mullins, Sonoma Laser Engraving/Laser Engraving 911
Session Code 101
Join Michael Mullins, the host of the Youtube Channel, Laser Engraving 911 in learning about using Adobe and Photoshop in your personalization business. Adobe Illustrator is a standard for Graphic Design. We will compare vector graphics with JPEG, PNG, and PDF formats. I will give you my top 10 pro tips for using Adobe and Photoshop, including some hot AI tips. I'll show you that Adobe is not scary and can even be easy to use. It is a must have tool for any professional laser engraving business.
0.15 CEUs Technical
From Hide to Art: Lasering Leather
7:30-9:00 AM
Alisha Pate, Pate Ranch Creations
Session Code 102
Welcome to "From Hide to Art: Lasering Leather," an immersive class designed to transform your understanding and skills in working with leather using laser technology. This class will provide a comprehensive overview while diving deep into specific techniques, ensuring you walk away with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. By the end of this class, you'll have a solid foundation in leather lasering, from understanding the basics to mastering advanced techniques. You'll leave with the confidence to take your leather projects to new heights, transforming raw hides into stunning works of art.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Using Artificial Intelligence to help Automate Your Social Media Marketing
7:30-9:00 AM
Mike Westbrook, Mile High Laser Engraving
Session Code 103
In this dynamic session, attendees will delve into the innovative world of AI tools designed to automate and enhance social media marketing. Whether you're looking to streamline your digital strategy or inject creativity into your campaigns, this workshop is tailored to provide you with practical skills and knowledge.
0.15 CEUs Marketing
Maximizing Profits with the Combined Power of Laser Engraving and Sandcarving
9:30-11:00 AM
Liz Haas, Rayzist Photomask & Dennis Wilkinson
Session Code 111
Discover how to maximize profits by combining laser engraving with sandcarving, especially for wine bottles, glass awards and stone products. Industry experts Dennis Wilkinson (D&S Awards) and Liz Haas (Rayzist Photomask) will share their insights, discuss strategies, benefits, and potential challenges of integrating these two processes. Learn how to use both techniques to elevate the quality of your work and boost your business’s profitability.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Think Outside the Catalog
9:30-11:00 AM
Braden Todd, GS2 Awards
Session Code 112
In the world of recognition and awards, it is hard to stand out from the crowd if you are all offering the same catalog of products. By designing and producing custom awards, your business will be able to work with your customer to create exactly what meets their vision and budget and give them something truly special that they can’t find elsewhere. In this session, GS2 Awards will share some of the tried and true custom award styles that we have built our business on, and dive into the details of the manufacturing process. From sourcing materials, to laser cutting, UV printing, and assembly, this session will outline the process from customer contact to the awards heading out the door. Attendees will leave this session with the knowledge needed to start creating custom award offerings in their own business!
0.15 CEUs Technical
Creative Ways to Find New Customers (and Ideas for the Ones You Already Have)
9:30-11:00 AM
Will Louie, Crazy Laser Dad LLC & Mark Collier, Big Blue Laser Designs
Session Code 113
Join Mark and Will in a conversation about finding new customers for existing products and services as well as ideas for new ways to serve the customers you already have. You’ll have fun making a list of all kinds of ideas they’ve learned and get tips from others in your community too!
0.15 CEUs Business
CorelDraw: The NEXT level
12:30-2:00 PM
Doug Green, Express Yourself
Session Code 121
Increase your productivity, DRAW faster and smarter, and think outside the box. After 18 years using CorelDraw, I have become "the go-to guy" for people all over the world that need help with Corel, with more than 9,500 CorelDraw help videos and over 13,000,000 views and over 40,000 Subscribers. Join past APA Speaker of the Year, Doug Green as he shows you all his favorite tips and tricks for CorelDraw. Learn HOT keys, Short ct keys and Macros.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Maximizing Production Efficiency: Streamlining Your Workflow
12:30-2:00 PM
Megan Raymond from Raymond's Trophy and Awards
Session Code 122
Explore strategies and techniques to improve production efficiency in both a small and large shop. Participants will learn how to identify bottlenecks, optimize workflows, and leverage tools such as automation and standardization to reduce waste and increase output. The session includes practical examples, time-management methods, and tips for maintaining quality while boosting productivity.
0.15 CEUs Business
Jewelry Engraving
12:30-2:00 PM
Lori Champagne, Champagne Engraving
Session Code 123
It's time to get over your fear and learn how profitable jewelry engraving can be! Students will learn three different techniques on three different machines, and three different pieces of Jewelry - a watch, an ID bracelet and a charm. learn how to test engraving without leaving a mark, and how to make the best possible mark with the machine you use.
0.15 CEUs Technical
LightBurn Tips: Take Your Project to the Next Level
2:30-4:00 PM
Robert Kofoed, Computer Creations/ Computer Creationz
Session Code 131
In this session you will learn many key work flows and key concepts that speed up the way you use LightBurn. After 5 years of using LightBurn, I will share my tips, tricks and workflows that makes using LightBurn straight forward and easy.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Why the Awards Industry?
2:30-4:00 PM
Pamela Deats Connaly, Custom Built Awards
Session Code 132
Why are you in the Awards Industry? Some may have inherited their stores, bought an existing store or started their own, but there has to be a reason to do what you do. We are a strong industry. What we do makes the recipient feel great and know their importance. It should make you as an owner excited to show up and produce products just for them. In this session, we will discuss knowing what you do and why you do it. We will visit some of the originators in the industry and discover that you can get out of your box when creating items. Our industry allows you to become very successful while giving you a little down time as well.
0.15 CEUs Business
CorelDRAW for Awards and Engraving
2:30-4:00 PM
Clay Barbara & David Hanes, CorelTRAINER
Session Code 133
Dig right into the world of CorelDRAW for the personalization industry. Learn to simply vectorize, manipulate clients artwork, make fast mockups and get the speedy approval you need. From beginner to intermediate, you will absolutely take something useful from our session.
0.15 CEUs Technical
The ABCs of Creativity - Taking your designs from Blah to BAM!
4:30-6:00 PM
Lori Champagne, Champagne Engraving
Session Code 141
When I entered the industry 30 years ago, most trophy plates had two lines of Roman or Gothic (similar to Arial) font. It had been the standard for decades. Blah. Do your awards still look like that? Come join Lori Champagne as she gives you some ideas how to make your awards more exciting - how to make them stand out. You'll learn to find sources for inspiration and simple tricks to add a little flair.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Advanced LightBurn
4:30-6:00 PM
Katie Devlin, Things Katie Makes
Session Code 142
Unlock the full potential of LightBurn software in this advanced session designed for laser cutting and engraving professionals. Discover expert techniques for optimizing production workflows, from efficient tool path management to precise layer organization, aimed at reducing time and material waste. Learn how to leverage automation features, such as macros and variable text, to streamline repetitive tasks and enhance consistency across projects. Dive into advanced design capabilities, including node editing, path manipulation, and boolean operations, to create intricate and detailed designs with ease. Additionally, explore the use of LightBurn's documentation tools to effectively manage and document your projects, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. Whether you're looking to boost your production efficiency or elevate your design skills, this session provides the insights and tools you need to succeed.
0.15 CEUs Technical
Round Table: Navigating the Challenges and Successes of the Personalization Industry
4:30-6:00 PM
Speakers: Mark Case, Zach Nagle, Susan Cox, Jessica Heldman-Beck
Session Code 143
In this round table session, industry retailers and suppliers will guide you through discussions about what challenges and sucesses you've faced in the last year. Join your fellow personalization industry peers to share stories and brainstorm solutions. Have you had a big win in the last year? Share with others. Is there a challenge that you could use some help with? Maybe another industry expert will have a answer. Sit down at the table with others who understand the industry and share ideas. See you there!
0.15 CEUs Business
Wednesday, February 5
UV Printing from Inception to Production: Hands-On Session
7:30-10 AM
Steve Weist, PDS Equipment
Session Code 401
Join PDS at their booth to learn about the basics of UV printing, target customers, and the ROI of UV printing. Then, work directly at the UV printers including the Mimaki UJF 6042MK2, Mimaki UJF 7151P2, and the Mimaki UCJV300 Print and Cut Machine. You'll get hands on with Steve Weist and his team to do a deep dive into UV Printing. PDS is the number one dealer of UV printers, let them teach you the pros and cons of each of the models that are on display. Each participant will recieve a UV printed tumbler as part of this class.
.25 CEU Technical
Price - $125 Members/$150 Non Member
How to Color Fill Etched Products
7:30-10 AM
Liz Haas, Rayzist Photomask
Session Code 402
In this hands-on session, you'll explore various paint techniques by painting a wine bottle, rock, as well as sandcarving a wine glass for a unique textured (relief carve) appearance. 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
From Startup to Success: Strategies for Scaling Your Business
7:30-8:30 AM
Courtney Boren & Patrick Boren, Houston Acrylic
Session Code 201
Join Courtney and Patrick from Houston Acrylic as they share their inspiring journey from starting in their garage to expanding into a 10,000 square feet warehouse in just three years. In this session, you'll discover how they leveraged their crafting expertise and technology acumen to build a thriving business from scratch. Learn practical strategies and key insights on scaling your business, overcoming challenges, and fostering growth with the right attitude and plan. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand, this session will empower you to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
0.1 CEUs Business
Navigating JDS Marketing Resources: Tools to Successfully Help Grow Your Business
7:30-8:30 AM
Yvette Plooster, JDS Industries
Session Code 202
This class will encompass best practices for navigating JDS Marketing Resources to successfully help grow and market your business. Explore sales tool game changers and Stay Connected!
0.1 CEUs Marketing
Using Influencers to Grow Your Craft Business
7:30-8:30 AM
Sumita & Anuj Patel, Home Bound Custom Decor
Session Code 203
Learn how to work with influencers to grow your business! Topics will include how to find an influencer, what to send them, how to approach them, and how to compensate them.
0.1 CEUs Marketing
New CorelDraw Tips for Sublimation
9:00-10:00 AM
Austin Weisenbach, JDS Industries
Session Code 211
Learn new features within CorelDraw that will simplify your day-to-day process, as well as new tips and tricks for sublimation products. Leave the class with time-saving tips and ideas for your artwork setup and production process.
0.1 CEUs Software
The Ultimate Personalization Sandwich: Combining UV Printing and Laser Techniques
9:00-10:00 AM
Susan Cox, LogoJET
Session Code 212
Discover how blending UV printing with laser engraving can enhance your approach to personalized awards and trophies in this dynamic session. "The Ultimate Personalization Sandwich" explores the powerful synergy between these two technologies, showcasing how their combination can unlock new levels of creativity and efficiency. Whether you're looking to expand your capabilities or optimize your production workflow, this session provides the insights and skills needed to elevate your personalization offerings. Join us for an interactive experience and learn how to craft the perfect "personalization sandwich" with UV printing and laser techniques.
0.1 CEUs Technical
Small Business Administration: Programs and Services for You!
9:00-10:00 AM
Christina Stace, SBA
Session Code 213
The SBA is committed to assisting small businesses with the help they need by providing answers, resources, and support to small businesses and entrepreneurs so they can start, grow, expand, and recover their businesses. SBA provides initiatives, programs and resources available to entrepreneurs and small business owners.
0.1 CEUs Business
Thursday, February 6
Blazering: Merging Technologies
7:30-10:00 AM
Darin Jones, IKONICS and Dave Stephens, Trotec
Session Code 403
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 Dave Stevens of Trotec, are experts in their respective technologies. Darin and Dave will empower participants with a working knowledge to combine laser with sandcarving in one process to enhance offerings.
.25 CEU Technical
Price - $125 Member/$150 Non Member
Is Wholesale Right for You?
7:30-8:30AM
Jess Perkins, JL Creative LLC
Session Code 301
Have you been thinking about adding wholesale sales to your business? If you answered yes, this is the session for you! By the end of this session, you will have a clear idea of what wholesale is and is not. We will also cover criteria to determine if wholesale is a sustainable option for your business and guide you through preparing your business for its launch into the wholesale sector. Additionally, we will explore different ways to get your wholesale items in front of buyers.
0.15 CEUs Business
Purpose Driven Promotion: How Helping The Community Helps Your Business
7:30-8:30 AM
Crystal Evans, Conejo Awards
Session Code 302
As business owners, we all have a connection to our local communities and those communities are filled with marketing opportunities through non-profit organizations. This presentations will discuss the types of marketing opportunities available through non-profits and community service. We'll look at ways to maximize marketing exposure while minimizing your marketing expenses. Helping your community can help your market your business.
0.15 CEUs Marketing
Panel: State of the Industry
7:30-8:30 AM
Moderator: Mark Case
Panel: Scott Sletten, JDS; Derrick Calcote, PDU CAT; Lyle King, Marco
Session Code 303
Our panel of major industry suppliers will discuss their perspectives on where we’ve come from, where we are, and where we are headed. We will discuss how the industry has changed from a trophy industry back in the day to a whole world of personalized products. Join us as we highlight industry trends, new technologies, and how to adapt to the challenges of a changing industry.
0.15 CEUs Business
Things I Wish I Had Known from the Start...
9:00-10:30 AM
Brett and Savanna Broadbent, RF Engraving
Session Code 311
Are you new to the field of personalization? Do you become intimidated when a difficult customer order comes through your door? Do you wish you had some "pro-tips" up your sleeve? Does it seem like everyone around you is now personalizing from home and you want a way to stand out? Well, this is the session for you! Let our years of experience and learning, sometimes through our own mistakes, help you get ahead in the competitive world of personalization. We'll share some of our greatest tips and tricks that have taken our company from ordinary to extraordinary and can easily be implemented in any shop. We'll teach you ways to "find a way to say "yes!"" and get your customers talking about the incredible services you offer. This course is designed to take your starter shop to the next level so you can compete with the pros.
0.1 CEUs Technical
Digital Charisma
9:00 - 10:30 AM
Eddie Hill, Award Masters Inc.
Session Code 312
People do business with people they know, like, and trust. In this session, you will learn specific tactics to make prospects want to do business with you. Discover how to quickly build trust and authority online, along with dozens of tactical examples that will dramatically increase your online conversions—whether it's sales on your website, phone calls, or visits to your shop. Dramatically increase your sales by dramatically increasing your online presence.
0.1 CEUs Marketing
Panel: Making the Most of Artificial Intelligence
9:00-10:30 AM
Moderator: Justin Varn
Panel: Mike Mullins, Mike Westbrook, Michael Stewart, Dan Bensick
Session Code 313
Do you have questions about artificial intelligence? AI is here and is destined to change everything! Our AI panelists will explore AI from the perspectives of strategic planning, design, marketing, communications, and legal implications for the personalization industry. Panelists will share how they use AI in their day to day operations. Ask our panelists all of your questions!
0.1 CEUs Business
Take Your Expo Learning Experience to the Next Level
Attendees can take part in additional educational opportunities such as our Learning Lounge sessions, which offer quick, expert advice right on the show floor. In addition, Hands-on Sessions offer a hands-on learning experience on specific topics.
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