2026 Mid-Year Meeting Event Schedule

Education Sessions + Sika Corporation Plant Tour

Opening Keynote Address - Tuesday, May 12 * 8:30 - 9:30 AMMerger, Acquisition and Integration: Strategy, Synergy and the Real Lessons Learned

Presented by Marlene Morin, Senior Director of Floor Covering and Interior Finishing, Sika USA

In Ms. Morin's opening keynote, she will share how mergers and acquisitions create growth, reshape strategy and markets and build competitive advantage. She will walk the audience through the core reasons companies pursue deals, the key factors leaders must evaluate before committing and the common pitfalls that derail integrations. A review of real-world experiences and lessons learned will highlight what truly drives success beyond the financials, to provide the audience with practical insights they can apply to future M&A decisions.

Marlene Morin, Senior Director of Floor Covering and Interior Finishing, Sika USA, leads the development of the Sika and Schönox brands. Over her 20‑year career, she has held leadership positions in France, Canada, the US and Europe in marketing, business development, quality management and corporate strategy. Marlene has overseen major successful integrations including UGL in the U.S. and Parex Group, globally. Marlene is recognized for her ability to drive growth, align teams and execute complex transformation initiatives.

Beyond PVC: A Panel Discussion on What You Need to Know About Non-PVC Flooring

Tuesday, May 12 * 1:30 - 2:30 PM

Panelists Dave Bailey, Shaw Industries, Mike Forcade, Diverzify and Don Styka, Tarkett; Moderated by Jeff Johnson, MAPEI Corporation

The flooring industry is seeing a growing shift toward bio-based and non-PVC materials, driven by sustainability initiatives, environmental concerns, and evolving project specifications. While these products present new opportunities, they also introduce important considerations for commercial flooring contractors related to performance, adhesives, installation methods and project costs. This moderated panel will bring together contractor and manufacturer perspectives to explore why the industry is moving away from PVC products and what it means for installation practices. Panelists will discuss environmental and regulatory drivers, stability and performance considerations, adhesive requirements and potential impacts on installation timelines and margins. Attendees will gain practical insight into common challenges with non-PVC materials, including adhesion issues and sheet flooring considerations, along with strategies contractors can use to manage risk and successfully install these emerging products.

Dave Bailey, Director of Marketing for Healthcare and Senior Living, Shaw Contract, has 24 years in the commercial building products industry. With a background that combines technical, analytical and market-facing experience, Dave brings a practical perspective to his work. He partners with product development, technical and customer-facing teams to help translate complex product attributes into clear, real-world value for customers and partners. His work often focuses on performance, material selection, and application challenges in demanding environments, giving him a grounded perspective on the opportunities and considerations surrounding the move from PVC to non-PVC flooring.

Jeffrey Johnson is the FCIS Business and Marketing Manager for MAPEI’s Floor Covering Installation Systems product assortment. He has more than 40 years of experience in floor-covering installation product development and marketing. With practical experience in construction and as an adhesive bench chemist, Jeff has a unique perspective on the materials used in the flooring installation industry. As a bench chemist, he formulated water based and reactive type adhesives. In his current position, Jeff drives sales growth, product innovation and education for floor covering installation products involved with the carpet, resilient and wood flooring installation market segments. Jeffrey also serves on the FCICA Board of Directors and the Membership Committee.

Mike Forcade, CIM, is a commercial flooring industry professional with nearly 30 years of experience, currently serving as Special Projects Manager at Diverzify National Accounts. He brings expertise in project management, installation and national account support, with a focus on delivering efficient, high-quality outcomes on complex projects. Mike also serves as Chairman of the FCICA Membership Committee, where he helps drive industry engagement and growth.

Don Styka, CIM, has worked in the flooring industry for over 46 years and is currently the Director of Field Services for Tarkett where he has been for 26 years. Prior to Tarkett, Don started as an installer, then later moved to floor covering distribution. He is active in organizations that provide education, training and advancement opportunities to installation professionals including serving on the FCICA Board or Directors, Education, Membership and the CIM Committees. Outside of FCICA, Don is an active member, certification holder and contributor to many other floorcovering organizations including ASTM, INSTALL, CFI, NFCA, IUPAT, ICRI and more.

Contractor Safety Today: Risks, Best Practices and What Every Flooring Contractor Should Know

Monday, May 11 * 3:30 - 4:30 PM

Presented by Kenneth McBeath, Safety Director, Diverzify

Safety remains one of the most critical responsibilities for commercial flooring contractors. As jobsite environments evolve and compliance expectations increase, contractors must stay informed about emerging risks, updated regulations, and practical procedures that protect both workers and businesses. This session will explore current safety trends affecting the commercial flooring industry, including evolving jobsite hazards, lessons learned from the field, and proven safety practices used by leading contractors. The discussion will also highlight key areas contractors may be overlooking and provide guidance on how to strengthen safety procedures within their organizations.

Kenneth McBeath, Safety Director, Diverzify, leads enterprise-wide safety strategies across Diverzify’s national network of commercial flooring and construction operations. With more than 14 years of experience, he brings a well-rounded background within high-risk industries including oil and gas, manufacturing, DOT-regulated environments and commercial construction. In his current role, Kenneth is responsible for advancing safety culture, improving operational consistency and aligning safety initiatives with business objectives.

What Makes a Great Flooring Contractor - From the GC and End User Perspectives, a Panel Discussion

Tuesday, May 12 * 9:30 - 10:30 AM

Panelists - Craig Hall, Principal/Vice President, P. Agnes; Jay Such, Associate Director of Business Development, P. Agnes; Neil DeGregorio, Facility Engineer and Construction Manager, Deborah Heart and Lung Center; David Gross, Executive Director, INSTALL; Moderated by Mike Kelly, CIM, Account Manager, Synergy Flooring 

What do general contractors and end-users look for in a flooring contractor—and what sets the best apart from the rest? In this session, our panelists will share their perspective on working with flooring subcontractors on commercial projects. Attendees will gain insight into how GCs and end-users evaluate contractors during the bidding process, what common mistakes can impact project success and the communication practices that build trust and long-term partnerships. The discussion will also explore how flooring contractors can better support project schedules, navigate coordination challenges and avoid common sources of conflict on the jobsite. The session will help flooring contractors better understand expectations and position themselves as trusted, go-to partners.

Craig Hall is a Vice President at P. Agnes, Inc., where he plays a key role in leading operations, driving strategic growth and delivering high-quality construction projects. Specializing in the healthcare sector, Craig is an Executive Board member for the Healthcare Engineers Association of Southern New Jersey and is an ASHE Certified Healthcare Constructor. Craig has built a reputation for strong leadership, attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.

Jay Such, Director of Business Development, P. Agnes - Jay Such has 30 years in the commercial construction business, beginning his career as a union floor layer. Primarily working in the healthcare sector, Jay contributes to projects from start to finish. He supports the team with estimates, bid leveling, descoping and project management, ensuring each detail is handled with precision and care. He is one of the Directors of Business Development at P. Agnes, a Philadelphia Construction Management firm with over 100 years’ experience.

Neil DeGregorio, Facility Engineer and Construction Manager, Deborah Heart and Lung Center - Mr. DeGregorio has 50 years of facility engineering management experience. Currently, he is the Facility Engineer and Construction Manager at the Deborah Heart and Lung Center where he develops multi-year facility master plans for facility improvements and construction projects. Prior to this role, he held positions with Service Master, Inc. as the Facility Engineer Manager for the Northeast Division HealthCare and Pharmaceutical Markets and New York University Hospital.

David Gross is the Executive Director of INSTALL, the flooring industry’s manufacturer-endorsed program for installation training and certification. He brings over 20 years of field experience as an installer, superintendent, estimator and project manager. He previously served eight years as a Level III flooring instructor at the Northeast Carpenters Training Center in New Jersey. David holds a MBA from Pittsburg State University, a BA in economics from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP),and serves as a voting member of ASTM International Committees F06 and F08.

Mike Kelly, CIM, Synergy Flooring, has over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, holding senior management positions in finance, operations, project management, and sales. Synergy Flooring is a commercial flooring installation company with national coverage that provides a complete line of services to project manage and install every type of commercial flooring.  As a FCICA Certified Installation Manager  (CIM) for over 7 years, Mike enjoys working across all disciplines of the flooring installation process.

The Distributor's Perspective: Avoiding Costly Mistakes on Commercial Flooring Projects

Tuesday, May 12 * 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Presented by Tom Gillespie, Technical Floor Prep Specialist, Michael Halebian & Company

Distributors play a critical role in the success of commercial flooring projects, with valuable knowledge of product performance, jobsite conditions and common breakdowns that can impact cost, schedule, and delivery.  In this practical, contractor-focused session, Tom Gillespie, will share real-world insights into the most common issues they see across projects—and how contractors can avoid them. The session will highlight how communication gaps, incomplete job site information, and coordination challenges can create significant inefficiencies in material delivery, labor productivity and overall project execution.

Tom Gillespie joined the Michael Halebian & Company team in 2011. He entered the concrete business in 1986 and then went on to own a decorative concrete business for 11 years before coming to Halebian. At Halebian, Tom's brings years experience and helped to develop their architectural concrete design and installation practices.

Sika Plant Tour - Wednesday, May 13 * 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

2026 Spring Mid-Year Meeting Product Demos

In alpha order

Tuesday, May 12 * 12:15 - 12:45 / Room: Mambo 3 - 4

Join Bostik Product Expert James Sharp to learn more about Bostik’s LOCK H899 OPTIMUM and HYTEC A900 PREMIUM. LOCK H899 OPTIMUM is a high-performance, one-component hybrid adhesive designed for resilient flooring in demanding environments. HYTEC A900 PREMIUM is a two-coat, water-based, one-component moisture-vapor barrier and primer that reduces emissions, primes substrates, and blocks alkalinity before flooring installation.

Tuesday, May 12 * 11:45 - 12:15 / Room: Mambo 1 - 2

Step into the next evolution of flooring performance with i4F’s CeraGrout and Stair Tread technologies. Discover how i4F CeraGrout delivers a realistic ceramic imitation with integrated grout and low maintenance, redefining the look and feel of tiled surfaces. Explore how i4F’s Stair Tread technologies bring innovation and seamless design integration to stairs—ensuring both performance and visual continuity across flooring projects. We’ll guide you through the unique features and applications of these technologies, sharing practical insights and expert tips to help you elevate your flooring solutions.

Tuesday, May 12 * 2:45 - 3:15 / Room: Mambo 1 - 2

TEC Specialty Products is excited to demonstrate a new, innovative technology with TEC TotalFlex XMS. Only TEC TotalFlex^® XMS Tile Adhesive is designed for the most challenging wall applications. From exterior building facades to submerged use in pools and clear glass installations, it offers unmatched versatility paired with a time-saving, one-sided application. So work smarter instead of harder with a tile adhesive that sticks where no others can. https://www.tecspecialty.com/products/mortars-additives/totalflex-xms-tile-adhesive/

Tuesday, May 12 * 3:15 - 3:45 / Room: Mambo 3 - 4

Explore subfloor prep solutions in action with TotalWorx from Shaw Commercial through a live demonstration of moisture mitigation, self-leveling and rapid repair techniques. See how our PrepWorx products QL202 quick-dry self-leveler, VBS311 vapor barrier solution for moisture control and MRR111 rapid repair material work together to address jobsite challenges and support consistent installation outcomes. Explore the PrepWorx brochure for more details.

Silent Auction is Open! 

Place your early bid on the donated items below via 32 Auctions.

Silent Auction and Raffle Item Donation Request

Please consider donating an item(s) to be placed in the silent auction or raffle. If you elect to donate an item, please provide an image to include on the Spring 2026 Mid-Year Meeting website page. Silent auction item(s) and the company donor will be featured on the website for the duration of the event. The auction will close on Tuesday, May 12, 4:00 PM Eastern

Companies donating raffle and/or silent auction items will be responsible for shipping to the winner, if shipping is necessary. Your generous donation helps raise money for the association!

Please CLICK HERE to enter your Silent Auction Donation item. Thank you for supporting FCICA! We are grateful for your contribution.

RAFFLE 

2 $100 Gift Cards to the Lucky Raffle Winners! - Donated by Fishman Flooring Solutions

AUCTION ITEMS

ARDEX Feather Finish - One Pallet/208 Bags - Donated by ARDEX Americas

ARDEX FEATHER FINISH mixes to a creamy, smooth finish underlayment that eliminates flooring installation problems associated with disbonding, crumbling, mold, mildew and staining. ARDEX FEATHER FINISH may be used as an embossing filler when mixed with ARDEX P 82TM Ultra Prime. Install over: concrete, masonry, wood, terrazzo, and ceramic and quarry tile - as well as properly prepared residues of cutback and other non-water-soluble adhesives on concrete - all without the need for priming or the use of a latex additive AF127 03/15 Key Features:  • Blend of hydraulic and other cements; • Self-drying matrix; • Mixes with water only; • Trowelable;  • Mold and mildew resistant;  • Interior use. Click here for the spec sheet.

Vinyl PSA Pressure Sensitive Adhesive and Wall Base Adhesives - Donated by Custom Building Products

Vinyl PSA Pressure Sensitive Adhesive 24 Buckets / 4 Gallon Buckets - Advanced pressure sensitive adhesive ideally suited for most LVP/LVT and carpet tile applications. This unique formulation can be used in permanent or releasable applications. The high moisture resistant adhesive has low VOC’s and is Floor Score and Green Label Plus certified. see more details @ https://www.custombuildingproducts.com/products/vinyl-psa-pressure-sensitive-adhesive-2

Wall Base Adhesives - 6 cases / Twelve 30 oz. Tubes per case – Wall Base adhesive is an impact resistant non-staining vinyl, rubber and carpet wall base adhesive with exceptional tack and early strength. Wet strength holds base in position on outside and inside corner applications. High flexibility for impact resistance in commercial and institutional applications. Also used for installing vertical application of carpet and FRP (fiberglass reinforced plastic panels). https://fcicaflooringcontractorsassociation.growthzoneapp.com/api/files/download/27903077/?open=true

Yeti M-12 Backpack Cooler and (2) RTIC Road Trip Travel Mugs - Donated by Federated Insurance

VaporTec System Waterproof Backer Board - 1 Pallet/50 Sheets - Donated by Beno J Gundlach

The Gundlach VaporTec System is a comprehensive, waterproof shower installation system designed for ease of installation and durability. The system features lightweight, waterproof components designed to prevent moisture intrusion in tiled showers, including vapor panels, shower bases and sealing accessories.

1000 SF of High Performance Self-Leveling Products: 56 bags of Ultraplan HFL Fast-Set, High-Flow Self Leveling Underlayment, (1) MAPEI SLU Mixing Kit and (1) MAPEI Barrel Cart - Donated by MAPEI Corporation

Ultraplan HFL is a high-flow, high-compression-strength, calcium-aluminate-cement-based, self-leveling underlayment. Its unique flow properties allow for easy placement and a super-flat finished surface with minimal effort. Ultraplan HFL’s fast setting time allows for floor-covering installation within 3 hours of placement.

Maxxon® Commercial Skim Fill™ All Purpose Floor Patch - 15 Bags - Donated by Maxxon

Maxxon® Commercial Skim Fill™ is an easy to mix, fast setting, polymer-modified cement patch for correcting interior subfloor imperfections. Its high compressive strength and exceptional bonding properties deliver a smooth, strong surface that’s ready for floor covering in as little as 30 minutes. Packaged in a 20-lb bag.

All Purpose Floor Patch • Polymer-modified cement-based patch for use under all types of floor covering • Exceptional bond and compressive strength (4,000 psi+) • Can be installed over wet slabs (up to 100% RH) • Featheredge up to 1/2", no depth limitation in confined spaces • Fast setting — install flooring in as little as 30 minutes • Self-drying • Zero VOC • Sandable / Application: Smoothing and repairing;  Subfloor: Concrete and wood. Can be used over gypsum with priming. Click -https://maxxon.com/products/skim-fill/ - to learn more about this product.

Milliken Non-Reactive Standard Carpet Tile Adhesive (9 4-Gallon Pails) W/ Purchase of Cushion-Backed Carpet Tile - Donated by Milliken & Company

Milliken products offer adhesive solutions for any scenario: •Modular carpet, LVT, mixed-media • Normal RH and pH • Extreme RH and no-testing solutions • Trowel-on and Spray options for most applications • No primers, no sealants, limited floor prep required. Learn more about the product features/specs - here and here.

Protect-All Rapid Weld - Donated by Protect All Flooring

Protect-All Rapid Weld is an innovative installation system for Protect-All^® flooring products. A faster and easier installation alternative to heat welding, Protect-All Rapid Weld utilizes a chemical welding process that significantly reduces the amount of required labor. This process reduces installation time and downtime for customers. This innovative approach to installation delivers a high-quality, waterproof flooring solution designed to support a range of rigorous tasks. It delivers fewer flooring seams and helps to reduce flooring seams by at least 80% compared to traditional 6-inch-square ceramic tiles. Visit https://protect-allflooring.com/protect-all-rapid-weld to learn more.

Hume Band Health Monitor and $40 Gift Certificate for a Personalized AI Coaching and Fitness E-Book - Donated by Quantify North America

Measure your Metabolic Capacity—a key indicator of how efficiently your body performs and recovers. The higher it is, the better your endurance, the faster your recovery, and the stronger your resilience as you age.

• Shows how well your metabolism supports long-term health
• Helps you train smarter and recover better
• Tracks improvements in your body’s energy systems over time

TEC Level Set 400 HF + One 5-Gallon Pail of TEC 56  - Donated by TEC Specialty Products

TEC's Level Set 400 HF is formulated for your fast-track applications.  Our new self-leveling underlayment is pourable or pumpable and provides a smooth surface for finished floor coverings.  Its high flow distance combined with its extended self-healing properties reduces jobsite labor and saves time.  LS 400 HF is ready for tile in 2-3 hours and moisture sensitive flooring in 15 hours, which allows you to finish jobs faster. Click here and here for the spec sheet / product information.

3 Certified Installation Manager Programs - Donated by FCICA

The Certified Installation Manager (CIM) Program sets the industry standard for those involved in the management of commercial flooring projects. The Program provides video training modules led by experts who speak from years of floor covering experience. Paired with assessments, the modules enhance the a flooring professional’s core skill set, experience and knowledge base necessary to successfully manage commercial flooring projects. Individuals who reach this level of expertise will be easily distinguished by the Certified Installation Manager (CIM) designation. Must register 3 candidates within one year of purchase. Learn more about the CIM Program.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Keynote Sponsor - $7,500

• 5 minute presentation introducing opening keynote
• Company logo on communications
• Company logo on shared onsite signage
• Company logo on event website with link to company website

Dinner Sponsor - $5,000

• Company logo on dinner signage and bars at reception
• Company logo on communications
• Company logo on shared onsite signage
• Company logo on event website with link to company website

Hotel Key Sponsor - TEC Specialty Products

• Exclusive branded key card sponsor
• Company logo on communications
• Company logo on shared onsite signage
• Company logo on event website with link to company website
• Note additional key card cost - approx. cost of key cards $3/ea.

Lanyard Sponsor - $2,500

• Exclusive branded lanyard sponsor
• Company logo on communications
• Company logo on shared onsite signage
• Company logo on event website with link to company website
• Note additional lanyard cost - approx. cost for each lanyard is $2.50

Education Session Sponsor - $750/session

• Company logo on session signage
• Company logo on communications and website
• Company logo on shared onsite signage

Contact Catherine Church, FCICA Executive Director if you are interested in a sponsorship opportunity (630) 672-3702 or catherinec@cmservices.com.

Hotel Accommodations

Reserve your hotel stay!  FCICA has a discounted group rate available at the Tropicana Atlantic City Hotel.

Book by April 13 to be included in the FCICA room block. 

Tropicana Atlantic City Hotel
2831 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Call-In Booking:      

Room Reservations - (888) 516-2215 (8am-2am EST, 7 days/week)
Group name:  FCICA 2026 Mid-Year Meeting
Group code:  ST05FC6   

***Callers will be asked for the above code or by saying **FCICA 2026 Mid-Year Meet**

Online Booking Link: https://book.passkey.com/go/ST05FC6

Reservations will be held only if accompanied by a credit card or an advanced deposit. Any guest room reservation must be cancelled more than 72 hours in advance of the arrival date, or a one-night room and tax charge will apply. Check-in time begins at 4:00pm and checkout time is at 11:00 am. Hotel room rates are subject to all applicable state and local taxes. Guest room reservations must be cancelled more than 72 hours in advance of the arrival date, or a one-night room and tax charge will apply.

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS - Philadelphia Airport to Atlantic City Hotel / Return

• Uber or Lyft - approximate cost one-way $90
• Shuttle and Private Van Options -  Shuttle vans usually require advance reservations and pricing varies based on the number of passengers.
  • Philly Airport Shuttles

    Offers professional van services and budget-friendly transfers between the airport and surrounding regions.

  • Mike's Affordable Shuttle Service

    Specializes in group transportation and airport transfers for the New Jersey area, including direct PHL runs.

  • Shared-Ride Services: General providers like SuperShuttle offer shared high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) options, though availability for long-distance routes like Atlantic City should be confirmed at booking.

DRIVING to Atlantic City / Vehicle Parking at Tropicana Atlantic City Hotel 

Discounted parking rates for Mid-Year Meeting attendees / $10 for the duration of the event/stay over conference dates. Please see FCICA staff for vouchers. Vouchers are required when exiting/re-entering the parking garage.

Tropicana Atlantic City is a vibrant oceanfront resort situated on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. A variety of attractions, dining experiences and gaming options are at your doorstep - a lively atmosphere for both leisure and entertainment. The resort features multiple towers, each offering well-appointed rooms, contemporary furnishings and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean or city skyline.

Amenities & On-Site Activities

• Casino: The gaming floor provides an exciting selection of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms, catering to those seeking high-energy action.
• Dining: A wide assortment of restaurants and cafés can be found, including casual dining spots, upscale steakhouses, and internationally inspired fare.
• The Quarter: This themed shopping and dining complex offers boutique stores, varied culinary options, and nightlife venues, all beneath a sophisticated Havana-inspired ambiance.
• Entertainment: Live shows, comedy acts, and popular music performances are frequently hosted in the resort’s entertainment venues. An IMAX Theater within The Quarter showcases blockbuster films on a large-scale screen.
• Wellness: A spa and fitness center provide a relaxing retreat, offering an array of treatments and modern exercise facilities.
• Nightlife: Several on-site lounges and clubs, such as Boogie Nights, deliver a high-energy, retro-themed experience or a laid-back setting for socializing.

Nearby Activities & Attractions

The boardwalk location grants immediate access to the beach, perfect for sunbathing and shoreline strolls. Within walking distance, visitors can discover Atlantic City’s signature landmarks, including:

• Steel Pier for amusement rides and classic carnival games
• Boardwalk Hall for concerts and sporting events
• Atlantic City Outlets (The Walk) for discount shopping opportunities