HNA adds live translation to select education sessions and hardscape demos

Gain access to 16 education sessions, six Hardscape Demos, two Hardscape Workshops and one complimentary industry session featuring Caleb and Brittany Auman – all while saving more than 50% compared to purchasing sessions individually.

Hardscape North America (HNA) is piloting a new live translation service this year, giving attendees the opportunity to experience select education sessions and hardscape demonstrations in their preferred language.

The service will provide live, translated audio and on-screen translation through attendees’ mobile devices for four education sessions and all six Hardscape Demos during the 2026 show, October 21-23 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.

Using the service is simple. At the beginning of a participating session, attendees will scan a QR code with their mobile device, select their preferred language and then follow the translated content on their screen or listen to the translated audio using headphones or earbuds.

Attendees who plan to use the audio translation should bring their own headphones or earbuds to connect to their mobile device.

“We’re always looking for ways to make HNA’s education more accessible and useful to more members of the hardscape and landscape community,” said Bob Thomas, president & CEO of the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA), which produces HNA. “This pilot gives attendees another way to engage with the education and demonstrations happening at the show, regardless of their preferred language.”

Education sessions offering live translation

The four participating education sessions cover business leadership, installation practices, industry standards and natural stone applications:

• Working IN or Working ON My Business, Wednesday, October 21, 12-1 p.m.

Hardscape business owners often find themselves caught up in the day-to-day work of running their companies. In this session, Sam Gembel will share practical strategies for stepping out of the daily grind, developing leadership layers, creating accountability and building systems that allow a company to grow without relying on the owner for every decision.

• Understanding Mortar Technology for Compliant Installations of Adhered Manufactured Stone Veneer (MSV), Thursday, October 22, 8-9 a.m.

Attendees will learn how to select the proper mortar for adhered manufactured stone veneer and thin-brick veneer installations, with a focus on performance requirements, code compliance and best practices. In this session, Lee Tindall will cover relevant industry standards, ANSI-rated polymer-modified mortars and proper mixing and application techniques.

• Best Practices for Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) Design and Construction, Thursday, October 22, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Drawing on more than 30 years of research, design knowledge and field experience, Ryan Miller will share practical guidance for designing and installing Segmental Retaining Walls. The session covers the full lifecycle of a wall, from planning and design through installation and top-of-wall finishing, with actionable examples and construction details.

• Innovations in Installation of Natural Stone Paving: Successful Projects, Thursday, October 22, 3-4 p.m.

This session led by Daniel Pfannenstein and Tom Kirk explores the factors, best practices and innovative methods that contribute to successful natural stone installations. Attendees will learn how stone characteristics, climate, project conditions, fabrication and setting materials can affect the durability and performance of natural stone paving.

Live translation for all six hardscape demos

Live translation will also be available for all six Hardscape Demos, giving attendees another way to follow these high-impact, hands-on demonstrations led by industry professionals from Local Roots Landscaping.

The demos focus on practical skills and strategies attendees can put to work in their businesses, from building high-performing teams and improving efficiency and profitability to creating outdoor spaces using real-world installation techniques.

Already eegistered? Education can still be added

Attendees who have already registered for HNA can still add education to their registration. Simply return to the registration dashboard to view available education sessions and add them to the registration.

For those looking to maximize their educational experience, the HNA VIP Pass offers exceptional value. Gain access to 16 education sessions, six Hardscape Demos, two Hardscape Workshops and one complimentary industry session featuring Caleb and Brittany Auman – all while saving more than 50% compared to purchasing sessions individually. New this year, VIP Pass holders also get added flexibility to continue their education beyond the show.

Register to attend HNA

For registration and the full education schedule, visit HardscapeNA.com. HNA takes place October 21–23, 2026, at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky, alongside Equip Exposition. Attendees can experience two shows for one price, with access to industry education, Hardscape Demos, exhibits, networking and more.

HNA is produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) and is endorsed by the Brick Industry Association (BIA) and Natural Stone Institute (NSI). Platinum sponsor: Belgard. Gold sponsors: iQ Power Tools, Landmark Ceramics and Nicolock. Silver sponsor: Keystone Hardscapes and My Salesman. Bronze sponsor: Range Outdoor Living.

About Hardscape North America

Hardscape North America (HNA) is THE hardscape show for contractors and dealers/distributors. Its focus is to bring top-notch education including certification courses, products and technology to contractors and installers who build segmental pavements and retaining walls and to provide networking opportunities. HNA features indoor and outdoor exhibits displaying state-of-the-art tools and products and trade show floor demonstrations and offers the latest technology for contractors and dealers. To learn more about HNA, visit HardscapeNA.com or call (888) 580-9960. The show is produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association and co-located with Equip Exposition.

About CMHA

The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) represents the manufacturers, suppliers and professionals behind concrete masonry, segmental concrete pavements, manufactured stone veneer, segmental retaining walls and other hardscape systems across the US and Canada. CMHA serves as a central resource for the industry, supporting its members through education, technical guidance, research, advocacy, industry expertise and collaboration. For more information, visit CMHA.org.