ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Textile Care Allied Trades Association (TCATA) brought members of the textile care industry together in Asheville, North Carolina, Aug. 2-5, for its 2026 Management & Educational Conference at the Omni Grove Park Inn.
The event, TCATA says, held under the theme “Summit of Possibilities,” combined four days of education, networking and association business for manufacturers, distributors and industry partners.
Economics, AI and Policy
The educational program centered on an interactive economic and geopolitical simulation led by Alex and Eugene Chausovsky of 3DM Consulting. Attendees worked through hypothetical scenarios reflecting challenges that could affect their businesses, then discussed current economic conditions and what to watch in the months ahead.
Patti Rausch of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) addressed artificial intelligence, one of the most rapidly evolving issues facing businesses today. Her presentation covered practical ways companies can incorporate AI into their operations, along with strategies and tools attendees can apply within their own organizations.
Brian Wild, NAW’s chief government relations officer, gave attendees a government affairs update, highlighting legislative and regulatory developments and the issues companies should be watching as they plan ahead.
Leadership Changes Hands
The conference also marked a 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 next president.
Three new members joined the 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. TCATA recognized outgoing board members Kelly Kelleher of Kelleher Casares Equipment and John Silverman of Tschopp Supply for their years of service.
Five Companies Mark 25 Years
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 industry.
Beyond the Meeting Rooms
Networking remained a major part of the conference, with members reconnecting with longtime colleagues and welcoming new attendees to the TCATA community. The kickoff event took place at Highland Brewery, Asheville’s oldest brewery, and attendees also visited the Biltmore Estate.
“The Asheville conference was a wonderful example of what TCATA does best: bringing our industry together,” says Luci Ward Pettys, TCATA executive director. “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.”
TCATA thanked Conference Chair Wes Nelson of Sankosha USA, Business Committee Chair Kristen Vos of R.R. Street & Co. Inc., the Business Committee, conference sponsors, speakers and attendees for their contributions to the event’s success. The next Management & Educational Conference is set for April 25-28, 2027, at The Meritage in Napa Valley, California.
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