What's Happening?
Simon Acres, Managing Director of Simon Acres Group, is set to host an expert panel discussion at InstallerSHOW New York on March 19, 2026. The event will be broadcast live on the Simon Acres Group's YouTube channel, allowing UK installers to access the discussion remotely.
The panel aims to address the skills gap in the UK and US markets by drawing practical solutions from industry leaders. The panel includes Sharon L. Sherman, an award-winning interior designer from New Jersey; Mark Rosenhaus, a New York-based designer; Mark Conacher, CEO of KBB Momentum; and Eric Marshall, Global Connect Advisor for the NKBA. The discussion will focus on installation challenges and strategies to improve collaboration between designers and installers.
Why It's Important?
The skills gap in the construction and design industries is a pressing issue affecting both the UK and US markets. By facilitating a dialogue between experts from both countries, the panel aims to identify solutions that can enhance the quality and efficiency of installations. This initiative is crucial for addressing the shortage of skilled professionals, which impacts project timelines and quality. The collaboration between UK and US professionals could lead to innovative approaches and shared best practices, benefiting the industry as a whole. The event also highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling industry-wide challenges.
What's Next?
Following the panel discussion, Simon Acres will host a presentation with Mark Conacher on March 18, 2026, focusing on the UK apprentice model compared to North American trade career routes. This session aims to explore different training models and their effectiveness in developing skilled professionals. Additionally, Simon Acres Group plans to film exclusive content at the exhibition, including interviews with industry professionals, to further inspire and educate installers in the UK. These initiatives are expected to foster ongoing dialogue and collaboration between UK and US industry stakeholders.
