Houston: The City With No Limits

The NAEC 76th Annual Convention and Expo is coming to one of the U.S.’ most diverse cities.

by Sophie Goodwin

The vertical-transportation (VT) industry is taking a trip to Space City this fall for the National Association of Elevator Contractor’s (NAEC) 76th Annual Convention and Exposition. While NAEC’s 2025 convention will be centralized in the heart of downtown Houston, Texas, at the George R. Brown Convention Center on September 15-18, the broad-sweeping city has much to offer its VT visitors.

Houston’s Cultural Landscape

Founded in 1837 and serving as the original capital of the Republic of Texas before the title moved to Austin in 1839 — the city boasts 599.6 mi.2 of diverse highlights. The city lovingly referred to as H-Town is larger than NYC, Boston and San Francisco combined and is the fourth most populated U.S. city, comprised of people from diverse cultural backgrounds. No matter where NAEC 2025 attendees are visiting from, Houston has something for everyone.

Between the work, and play, of the NAEC convention, attendees can explore the various attractions the city has to offer. Perhaps the most famous is NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, which houses human spaceflight operations, astronaut training and Mission Control and the connected Space Center Houston, a science museum and educational complex that provides the public with access to the Johnson Space Center. Houston is also home to the exciting Kemah Boardwalk, a 60-acre theme park located on Texas’ Gulf Coast approximately 30 mi. southeast of downtown.

Closer to the George R. Brown Convention Center lies Houston’s Downtown Aquarium, Daikin Park and Discovery Green where visitors can relax and take in the nature around them between NAEC events and Education Sessions, which will take place on September 16-18.

NAEC 2025

The NAEC 2025 Convention and Expo will contain more than 200 exhibits that are set to feature the VT industry’s newest technology and products. Attendees will not only get the chance to network with VT industry members from more than 250 companies, but they will also have ample opportunity to learn about what’s next for the industry. With educational sessions planned for each day, attendees can take advantage of the opportunity to earn continuing education credits for CAT, CET and QEI certifications. Those participating will also be able to meet state licensing requirements where applicable.

Monday, September 15

Golf Tournament — 7 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. The Golf Club of Houston stands as a premier destination for competitive golf, famous for its rich history and elite-level design. 

United In Deed — 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. NAEC’s second annual United In Deed give-back event will be held in partnership with MEI Total Elevator Solutions and through the MatterBox Project. Attendees will be able to partner up and assemble healthy and sustainable snack packs for local Houston youth.

Welcome Dinner Reception — 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Join other attendees at the Texas Ballroom at the Marriott Marquis Houston for an evening filled with authentic Texas cuisine, lively entertainment and the warm hospitality of the Lone Star State. To kick off the week, NAEC will also host an exclusive bourbon-tasting experience featuring a curated selection of premium bourbon.

Tuesday, September 16

Opening Breakfast — 7:45 a.m. – 9 a.m. The Opening Breakfast will feature a keynote address from industry leader Erik Zommers, senior vice president at Mitsubishi Electric U.S. Zommers will provide an in-depth look at the state of the elevator industry and share key trends, innovations and challenges that are shaping the future of VT.

Wednesday, September 17 

Elevator World’s Ellies Awards — 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. ELEVATOR WORLD will present its 2025 Ellies Awards to the lucky winners.

After Lift Reception — 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Transitioning from the expo floor to a fun night in Houston, attendees can enjoy refreshing drinks, light bites and compelling company at the After Lift Reception. Expo attendees are encouraged to continue networking conversations, strengthen connections and build on business from the day’s events.

Thursday, September 18

Awards Breakfast — 7:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. The NAEC Awards Breakfast will honor the outstanding contributions that drive our industry forward. Enjoy a plated breakfast as attendees applaud this year’s award winners, including the best exhibit booths, the President’s Award and the William C. Sturgeon Distinguished Service Award.

Dregs Party — 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. A time-honored NAEC tradition, the high-energy Dregs Party is the perfect way to wrap up the week. The party will be held at The Rustic in downtown Houston, where visitors can enjoy live music, great food and drinks. The closing party is a great opportunity to reminisce on the week’s highlights or simply kick back and unwind with industry friends.