The 2026 CPIA Leadership Conference is one month closer, and we're proud to continue unveiling a lineup of forward-thinking, industry-leading speakers.
Our goal isn't to talk generically about the business of commercial painting or unrealistic expectations. It's hands-on, contractor-focused education built to help business owners strengthen every facet of their business, alongside a community that truly understands the challenges that lie in the path.
As AI continues to transform commercial painting businesses, it is a strong focus of our content. Day 1 will be dedicated to teaching some of the most advanced AI skills, exploring how other contractors have excelled—and failed—with AI, and engaging in meaningful discussions about the opportunities and pitfalls that come with this rapidly evolving technology.
With that in mind, we are excited to announce Ryan Moore—applied economist, operational strategist, and AI innovator—will present a session focused on how contractors can use AI to optimize back-office margins.
Explore how AI is reshaping the “make vs. buy” equation
As labor rates continue to rise, successful contractors are working to find cost savings and efficiencies everywhere in their business. For decades, contractors have paid a “token tax” to Silicon Valley software vendors for every bid or schedule written.
In this session, Moore will explain how AI has completely upended the "make vs. buy" equation for business software. You will learn how the same structured thinking that drives a successful commercial contracting business can be applied to engineering software solutions, empowering you to use AI to build custom internal tools and workflows without relying on expensive software vendors or development teams.
Stay tuned as we announce more speakers and panels for the 2026 CPIA Leadership Conference.
