mainline National Association of Elevator Contractors Newsletter | 1ST QUARTER 2026
in this issue… 2
Upcoming Events
3
New Members
4
Schaefer
5
Kohtler
6
IAEC Forum 2026
7
EESF Annual Conference
7
QEI Certification Updates
8
NAEC Training Highlights
8
Women in Motion: Lattes & Lifts
9
Set Sail with NexGen
11 2025 Highlight Photos
Do You Know the NAEC?
Since its inception in 1950, the National Association of Elevator Contractors has supported the vertical transportation industry by focusing on safety and education. NAEC has become the premier industry association in North America by promoting safe and reliable vertical transportation through education, networking and exposure to new technologies. With approximately 800 company members representing 50,000+ industry professionals, NAEC is the largest organization of its kind in North America. One longtime member described NAEC as having ‘extended family—everywhere!’ He said, ‘Anywhere I travel in North America, I know I have people I can call on if I ever need anything.’ Bobby D. We are committed to continuing that legacy of connection for our members.
CALL FOR SPEAKERS:
Share Your Expertise at the Fall Convention in Chicago, IL.
Are you ready to share your expertise with the industry? We invite you to volunteer for a speaking opportunity and share your expertise with the industry. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or bringing fresh insights, your voice can make a difference. To become an industry speaker for future events and help drive the conversation forward. Simply CLICK HERE to fill out the speaker application form.
What makes NAEC Unique? NAEC is important because our members are important. Our member companies represent the full spectrum of the Vertical Transportation Industry. Here are the facts: • Over 40% of our members are multi-generational with a long family legacy of participation with NAEC
1500 Klondike Rd SW, Ste A211 Conyers, Georgia 30094 770.760.9660 1.800.900.6232 info@naec.org
www.naec.org
• Approximately 90% of our member companies are Independents, locally or regionally run • 65% of NAEC members are independent Merit shops • 35% of our members are Union affiliated • 10% of NAEC member companies are headquartered Internationally continued on next page…
Do You Know the NAEC?… continued from page 1
NAEC Mainline A quarterly newsletter of t he National Association of Elevator Contractors. President: Amy DiPaolo Executive Director: Rená Cozart Be in Mainline. Know of an event or have an article idea? Submit your photos and submissions to Rená Cozart a t rena@naec.org. NAEC is committed to providing you with the highest level of customer service. We value your time and respect your online privacy. Please take notice that we will communicate important information via e-mail regarding meetings, conventions and services that might be of interest to you and your company.
SAVEthe DATE!
UPCOMING EVENTS
MARCH 10-13, 2026 EESF Golf & General Membership Meeting Mobile, AL MARCH 22-25, 2026 NAEC Spring Conference Long Beach, CA APRIL 15, 2026 ECNY | Bronx, NY APRIL 26-May 1, 2026 NexGen Retreat
Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas APRIL 28-29, 2026 IUEC Safety Summit | Las Vegas, NV MAY 5-7, 2026 IAEC Forum | Orlando, FL
NOW OPEN
JUNE 15-18, 2026 CECA Convention | Victoria, BC
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What is the Value of NAEC Membership? We have a strong history of providing the highest quality Educational Training and Certification programs which offer resources for elevator maintenance workforces with nationally recognized Apprenticeship programs. • The three Certification Programs NAEC offers are designed to support the highest level of quality training: the Certified Elevator Technician (CET), the Certified Accessibility/Residential Technician (CAT) and the Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI). • The three Education Programs NAEC provide nationally recognized continuing education and training: the Certified Elevator Technician (CET), the Certified Accessibility/Residential Technician (CAT) and the Vertical Transportation Management Program (VTMP). Members agree to a Code of Ethical Practices and standing policy statement to support the strictest guidelines for high quality workmanship, management and customer service. The NAEC Annual Convention and Expo is the largest in North America. The event showcases the newest innovations and products in the elevator and escalator industry. With 65,000 square feet of exhibit space and 250+ companies represented, Expo is definitely where business gets done. Only NAEC Supplier Members are able to exhibit at this world class event. The Annual Spring Education Conference provides education, focusing on key technical and management topics. Great opportunity for continuing education credits. Best networking and golf anywhere! Active Affinity programs to support different industry segments including Women In Motion and NexGen for under-40 professionals. These committees offer a wonderful opportunity for resources and connections, with virtual and in-person functions throughout the year. Beginning in 2026, members will have access to the NAEC Member Marketplace which will offer exclusive industry discounts for a variety of goods and services across the U.S. By uniting members in the lift industry into One voice, One Network and One Community, NAEC is making a real difference for industry contractors and suppliers around the world. To learn more about how to become a member—or how to get more out of your membership, please visit naec.org or contact Paula Sanchez, National Sales Director at 1-800-900-6232 or paula@naec.org. click to learn more
NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2026 NAEC BOARD OF DIRECTORS. We are currently seeking three contractors and one supplier to serve on the 2026 Board. This is your chance to make an impact, share your expertise, and help shape the direction of the association. If you or someone you know is interested, we encourage you to get involved. Nominations are due to Danielle Chappelear: danielle@naec.org by Feb. 13, 2026.
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
cast your nomination here
membership
NAEC President Amy DiPaolo
Welcome New Members Acadia Elevator Miami Gardens, FL acadia-elevator.com
Mid-American Elevator East Dundee, IL mid-americanelevator.com
NAEC Vice President Matthew Hollinshead
Alco Elevator Ltd. Hamilton, ON alcorelevator.com
Mid-Continent Crane Mounds, OK mccrane.cc
AR Elevator USA North Las Vegas, NV arelevatorusa.com
MovingUpLifts, Inc. Staten Island, NY movinguplifts.com
Cardinal Elevator St. Louis, MO cardinalelevator.com
NHElevators Regina, SK nhelevators.com
Cardinal Elevator Services Littlestown, PA cardinalelevator.net
P&G Insurance
BOARD OFFICERS 2025-26
American Elevator Group
Kencor Elevator Inc
NAEC Secretary Teru Irvin
Executive Elevator Co.
Chicago Elevator Company Chicago, IL chicagoelevator.com
NAEC Treasurer Blake Pilgrim Wurtec Elevator
Elevation Ltd. Paget, Bermuda elevationbda.com
Peak Elevations Elevator Pinellas Park, FL peakelevationsinc.com Prestige Elevator Co. Medley, FL prestigeelevators.com Semper, LLC Washington Township, NJ semper-llc.com
BOARD MEMBERS 2025-26
Elevator Testing Associates New Windsor, NY
Dennis Lotter, Jersey Elevator
Elite Elevator Group Rye Brooke, NY
Simpro Software Broomfield, CO simprogroup.com
Ferens Elevator Company, Inc. Red Hook, NY ferenselevator.com
The Elevator Consultants Tarpon Springs, FL theelevatorconsultants.com
Galaxy Elevator Buena Park, CA galaxy-elevator.com
Ucel Inc. Uxbridge, ON
Charley Meeks-Crystal, Delaware Elevator John Mezzo, Dynasty Elevator Jack O’Shea, Start Elevator Company Evan Petrower, Day Elevator & Lift Veronica Querales, Kohtler Elevator Ind. Steve Rosnack, Schumacher Elevator Kevin Rusin, McKinley Elevator Michael Staub, TEI Elevator
Liftech Elevator LLC Kearny, NJ liftechelevator.net Metro Elevator Co, Inc. Indianapolis, IN metroelevator.com
United Elite Partners Inc. San Gabriel, CA heeidunglift.com Vantix Electric Dallas, GA vantixelectric.com Wade Elevator LLC Thomaston, GA wadeelevator.com
Welcome to our newest NAEC Team Member! Congratulations Jessica Harris on your baby boy! Harlan Lee Harris, born September 29, 2025 • 7lb 13oz.
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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member spotlight
SCHAEFER: Bridging Global Excellence & Local Customization
The journey of SCHAEFER began over 60 years ago in Germany, rooted in a dedication to crafting the world’s most advanced and reliable operating and display elements for the elevator industry. Today, SCHAEFER is recognized as a leading international supplier, driven by a vision to be the clear No. 1 in technological competence, customer service, and entrepreneurial flexibility. Their global mission is clear: to develop, produce, and sell elevator fixtures and indicators that offer customers a genuine technical, economic, and aesthetic advantage. Establishing a North American Footprint In 2014, SCHAEFER solidified its commitment to the North American market by opening SCHAEFER Elevator Components Inc. in the Vancouver, BC area. This facility is more than just a sales office; it is a full-fledged manufacturing hub where specialized products are created to meet the exacting Canadian and U.S. standards. This local operation bundles the essential North American know-how, focusing on UL/CSA compliant control panels and push-buttons specifically optimized for the market’s codes and designs.The North American operation is led by Ross Watson, General Manager, who emphasizes the unique position of the facility.
“
WE BREAK NEW GROUND TO MOVE YOU SKYWARDS. OUR CORE STRENGTH IS SIMPLIFYING COMPLEXITY AND CREATING CUSTOM SOLUTIONS THAT FIT LIKE A GLOVE. WE COMBINE 60+ YEARS OF GLOBAL EXCELLENCE WITH THE LOCAL FLEXIBILITY & COMPLIANCE OUR NORTH AMERICAN PARTNERS DEMAND.”
The Power of Uncompromising Partnership SCHAEFER’s unique selling proposition is its ability to master technical complexity and enable true, in-depth customization while simultaneously delivering code-compliant, long-lasting solutions. This strength is built upon an extremely high level of in-house manufacturing depth and over six decades of industry experience. The team in Vancouver leverages this rich heritage, allowing them to execute projects ranging from standard solutions to particularly high-quality and unique designs, such as glass car operating panels, vintage-style indicators, and truly individual custom solutions. continued on next page… 4
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
member spotlight SCHAEFER… continued
The product range for North America emphasizes: • Complete Car Operating Panels (COP), Hall Stations, and Indicator Fixtures: Solutions for new installations and modernizations, built to be robust and accessible. • Customizable Buttons: Push-buttons with high variability, all the way to unique, customer-specific designs. • Intelligent Components: Connected systems and advanced HMI (HumanMachine-Interaction) solutions, reflecting SCHAEFER’s commitment to being a technological trendsetter.
ELEVATING EXPERIENCE THREE GENERATIONS UNITED BY CRAFTSMANSHIP & INNOVATION SETTING THE STANDARD IN ENTRANCES & CABS
Commitment to the NAEC Community At SCHAEFER, we believe in reliable partnership and long-term collaboration. Our relationship with the NAEC is a cornerstone of this philosophy. We are proud to support the association and to build strong relationships within the North American elevator community. We look forward to continuing to provide our partners—from elevator manufacturers and consultants to service and maintenance companies— with the quality, flexibility, and technological leadership they need to secure a competitive edge. To learn more about SCHAEFER Elevator Components Inc. and explore our customized solutions for your next project. Contact: Ross Watson, General Manager at +1 778 731 2345 ext. 801 or ross.watson@ws-schaefer.com click to learn more
Located in Miami, Florida, Kohtler Elevator Manufacturers, Inc. has grown from a small family-operated shop into one of the most trusted names in elevator cabs, entrances, and doors across North America. What began as a legacy built on craftsmanship and hard work has evolved into a company known for its precision engineering, exceptional service, and long-standing relationships throughout the elevator industry. In 2025, Kohtler was proud to be recognized with the Contracts Choice Award, a testament to its excellence, reliability, and leadership in the industry. Kohtler’s story is rooted in family values. For decades, those values have shaped every part of the company — from the way products are built to the way customers are treated. Industry partners often say that “the uniqueness of your family legacy, ultimate customer service and friendship, and huge company success are just a few of the focus areas that make Kohtler so wonderful.” This foundation of trust and genuine partnership remains at the center of everything Kohtler does. As the company expanded, so did its capabilities. Today, Kohtler designs and manufactures custom and standard elevator cabs, UL Inspected Entrances and Doors, including innovative, purpose-built solutions such as Vers@Quick and Dur@Steel. with in-house fabrication, precision continued on next page… NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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member spotlight
Kohtler: Elevating Experience… continued
metalwork, and advanced engineering processes, Kohtler delivers reliable solutions built to meet the real-world demands of OEMs, independent contractors, architects, and engineers. Every product reflects the company’s commitment to quality, consistency, and long-term durability. A key driver of Kohtler’s long-term success has been its dedication to building meaningful customer relationships. Many clients have worked with Kohtler for years — even decades — relying on the team’s responsiveness, honesty, and willingness to go above and beyond. This culture of partnership has helped Kohtler maintain exceptional performance across projects of all sizes, from simple repair upgrades to large-scale new construction. Behind the scenes, Kohtler’s team operates with a deep sense of pride and responsibility for the work they produce. Employees are trained across multiple manufacturing disciplines, ensuring accuracy and consistency throughout every stage of production. The company continually invests in equipment, processes, and team development to keep pace with industry demands while maintaining the level of quality customers have come to expect. As Kohtler continues to grow, its focus remains the same: to build products that last, support customers like family, and honor the legacy that started it all. That combination of craftsmanship, service, and integrity continues to position Kohtler Elevator Manufacturers for a successful and enduring future. click to learn more
The International Association of Elevator Consultants (IAEC) is thrilled to announce IAEC Forum 2026, taking place in sunny Orlando, Florida! Join fellow IAEC members, industry leaders, and innovators for three days of expert-led education, networking, and collaborative exploration of the future of vertical transportation—all in one of the most exciting destinations in the country. EVENT & HOTEL DETAILS Dates: May 5–7, 2026 Location: Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida Special Rate Dates: Available from May 2 through May 9, 2026
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NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
For more information: visit the IAEC Forum 2026 Event Page or go to IAEC.org
member information
EESF ANNOUNCES
2026 Annual Conference & 35th Anniversary Celebration
The Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation will hold its 2026 Annual Conference March 10–12 at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, Alabama. The event marks the 35th anniversary of EESF and will bring together leaders and partners from across the vertical transportation industry for three days of programming, networking, and celebration. The conference begins on Tuesday evening with an Opening Reception and Vendor Fair in the Magnolia Ballroom. Only three exhibitor booths remain available. Booths are priced at $450 through December 20. Companies interested in securing one of the final booths can email Amber@EESF.org. On Wednesday morning, attendees will gather at the Lakewood Golf Club for the EESF Golf Tournament presented by Elevator World. Golf foursomes support EESF’s mission by helping fund safety education materials for schools, fire departments, libraries, and community groups across North America. Registrants can save 10% through December 20 by using the code EESF2026. Golf registrants are automatically signed up for the Expo and the Anniversary Dinner. Non-golfers should register for the dinner separately, which also includes Expo registration.
CLICK TO LEARN MORE
Sponsorship opportunities for the entire 2026 event are available through the golf registration link. Sponsors can select from a wide range of visibility and engagement levels that support EESF programs throughout the year. CLICK HERE for more information on Golf & Sponsorships
The celebration continues on Wednesday evening with the EESF 35th Anniversary Gala. The Gala will honor the organization’s founders, volunteers, and long-term contributors. Seating is limited to one hundred guests. Early registration is strongly encouraged. Thursday activities include the Executive Session, followed by the Member Session, both held in the Grand Ballroom South. The conference room block at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa is now open. Attendees are encouraged to reserve lodging early. CLICK HERE for Lodging Reservations.
EESF invites members of the vertical transportation industry to join the Foundation in commemorating 35 years of rider safety education and in supporting the continued expansion of programming across North America.
Our QEI exam has been updated by industry experts to align with current practices, updated references, and improved test items.
CERTIFICATION ANNOUNCEMENTS
QEI CERTIFICATION EXAM UPDATES
• Still offered online with an eight-hour completion window • Streamlined format with 130 questions • Special Offer: First 30 applicants receive a waived $560 application fee
QUESTIONS?
please reach out to NAEC Certification at certification@naec.org.
Please Note: QEI exams are currently in beta testing. Scores will be released after 30 candidates complete each exam, when the official passing score will be established by our psychometric team. NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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EDUCATION
NAEC Training Highlights
CONTINUING EDUCATION TRAINING IN NEW YORK NAEC continues to provide continuing education in New York. Special thanks to Vantage for hosting the largest Continuing Education class in New York to date! 24 companies and 125 attendees participated in the program which took place in the Vantage facility in the Bronx. These classes provide continuing education requirements for New York. Look for future continuing education offerings for 2026.
Women in Motion: Lattes & Lifts Women in Motion held their virtual Lattes & Lifts event on November 18, 2025. With enthusiastic participation, this event is the continuation of a tradition of networking and support for WiM members. After the outstanding leadership of Past Chairwoman Kelly Oberhardt, the group welcomed new Chair Vanessa Kline and Vice Chair Candace Norton. This leadership dynamic duo will build on the strong foundation of Women In Motion, with big plans for 2026 and beyond. Be on the lookout for upcoming meetings and projects. If you are interested in being part of Women In Motion, contact Paula Sanchez, NAEC National Sales Director at paula@naec.org. 8
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
EDUCATION
Set Sail with the NexGen Education Retreat!
Join NexGen April 26-May 1, 2026 as we embark on the 2026 NexGen Education Retreat! Tailored for the next generation of leaders, this exciting event combines professional development with • Dynamic education speakers • Engaging workshops • Impactful networking with like-minded industry professionals For the first time ever, NexGen is excited to announce something truly unique — the upcoming 2026 NexGen Education Retreat will take place aboard Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas cruise ship! This one-of-a-kind retreat combines professional development with unforgettable experiences at sea. But, this is more than a retreat — it’s a chance to learn, grow, and create lasting connections. When asked why the NAEC NexGen group decided to cruise this year, the answer was simple-
‘The Retreat will be much more economical for attendees, while offering a more dynamic environment! There are more education sessions planned than at any previous event!’ says Morgan Jones, NexGen Chair. Spots will be limited, so make sure to secure yours today!!
We can’t wait to set sail with you! Registration and Sponsorships are NOW OPEN for National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC) NexGen Retreat 2026!
Registrations will be closing February 16th - so don’t delay! NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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Power Units Done Right Configurable designs. Proven performance.
EECO power units are built to your project specifications, with flexible configuration options and proven performance across a wide range of applications.
POWER UNITS | JACKS | VALVES | & MORE elevatorequipment.com | sales.eeco@hyperion-solutions.com 10
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
Learn More
2025 highlights! 2024 highlights!
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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MOVFR3 HARMONIC DOOR OPERATOR Innovating First, Leading Always. The new MOVFR3 Harmonic Door Operator from GAL operates seamlessly with all OEM and independent cabs and doors. This technologically advanced offering in GAL’s line of harmonic door operators features true closed-loop operation with encoder control, dual-voltage drive compatibility with 115/230 VAC, and discrete or serial communications. Quick and easy LED-display keypad programming allows complete control for all speeds, torques, acceleration, and deceleration. Benefits: • True plug-and-play detector installation • Handheld parameter management allows quick door-setting replication across units as well as fast and easy motion turning • Programs quickly and easily (parameter unit and device work together) • No optical cams required (virtual limits are set by the drive)
LEARN MORE
www.vantageelevation.com
Heavy-duty, 1/2 HP, 230-volt AC motor (3-phase, 60 Hz, 1, 140 RPM) on the MPVFR3 Harmonic Door Operator quietly handles all applications.
2025 highlights! 2024 highlights!
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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2025 highlights!
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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2026
SPRING EDUCATION CONFERENCE
Long Beach
Join us at the 2026 Spring Education Conference!
MARCH 22-25, 2026 Westin Long Beach Long Beach, CA
• Connect with industry leaders • Earn continuing education credits
Registration Opens December 2, 2025 Early Bird Rates End January 16, 2026
For more information and to register, go to naec.org/conference
Official Golf Tournament: Skylinks at Long Beach, March 23,2026 No Frills Tournament: Lakewood Country Club, March 25, 2025
1.800.900.6232 • naec.org
2025 highlights!
NAEC Quarterly Newsletter
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