Emerging Professionals Program: Bridging the Gap - Connecting Emerging Professionals with Industry Leaders

Building a successful career in the tile and stone industry starts with understanding where you fit and where you can grow. In this session, Rudy Llerena, President & CEO, D&B Tile, will share his experiences and insights to help you understand available career pathways and growth opportunities as well as how the different roles across the industry intersect. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own strengths, interests, and long-term direction while gaining real-world perspective on navigating professional development. The session will also explore the role of mentorships inside and outside your organization and how involvement in the broader industry, including events like Coverings, can accelerate learning and visibility. You will leave with practical strategies and a clearer roadmap for building meaningful connections that support career advancement and future leadership.

Schedule:
1:00 – 1:45 PM: Presentation
1:45 – 2:30 PM: Roundtable Discussions
2:30 – 2:45 PM: Break
3:00 – 4:00 PM: Tile Trends Presentation & Show Floor Tour

After the show floor tour, join us in The Coverings Lounge for the 2026 Rock Star Awards & Coverings Champions Ceremony and Reception!