LAS VEGAS, NV (JANUARY 20, 2015) — At KBIS 2015 in front of a panel of industry judges and KBIS attendees, four Finalists competing for the title of NKBA U Professional of the Year shared the importance of professional development and how NKBA University has contributed to their growth and success. Rhonda Knoche, CMKBD, of Portland, Oregon-based Rhonda Knoche Design was named the first-ever NKBA U Professional of the Year.

“Throughout the contest and in the Finals, Rhonda demonstrated how NKBA U has fueled her growth, and how continuing education shapes her career trajectory as she works toward her professional goals,” says National Kitchen & Bath Association Director of Learning Nancy Barnes. “Continuing education is deeply woven into the fabric of NKBA and this contest. We’re thrilled to celebrate Rhonda and the commitment that she, our runners-up and NKBA U embody.”

In the spirit of continuing education, the following prizes have been awarded:

•Grand Prize Winner Rhonda Knoche received three all-expenses-paid trips for two from the contest’s sponsors: Platinum sponsor Cosentino will send Knoche and a guest to Spain to tour its headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Almeria; Gold sponsor Kohler Co. will provide a tour of its headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Kohler, Wis., and Gold Sponsor GE will provide a tour of its Monogram Experience Center in Louisville, Ky.

About NKBA U Professional of the Year

•The NKBA U Professional of the Year Contest comprised three rounds and began in July; applicants submitted essays online that shared how they excel in one of the eight NKBA U learning paths and how these skills come to life day-to-day on the job.
•Finalists received a customized NKBA U curriculum and submitted a short video explaining how the courses will advance their career; the videos were then posted to the contest landing page for public voting.
•Four Finalists received air, hotel accommodations and a VIP pass to KBIS® 2015 in Las Vegas for the final competition. Live from NKBA’s Center Stage, Finalists shared what they learned from taking the NKBA U courses and how they are implementing the lessons to fuel their success.

About NKBA University

NKBA University (NKBA U), part of the National Kitchen & Bath Association, is a leader in continuing education and professional development for the kitchen and bath industry. NKBA U provides an innovative approach through eight different competency areas created for industry professionals, from novices to veterans, looking to further develop their design and business skills. Each path provides an individualized, step-by-step approach through innovative, virtual instructor-led training and on-demand webinars available 24/7—all led online by seasoned industry veterans.