More than 140 current and future leaders from across the textile services industry gathered for another successful Executive Management Institute (EMI), reinforcing TRSA’s commitment to developing the leadership talent that will shape the industry’s future.
TRSA has demonstrated its own strong commitment to leadership development by sending a staff member to EMI each year for the past four years. That commitment includes participation by TRSA President and CEO Joseph Ricci, who was among 35 graduates recognized on Aug. 13 after completing the four-year program.
“EMI is the industry’s premier leadership-development experience, providing the knowledge, skills, and professional network necessary to prepare the next generation of leaders,” said Ricci. “Its combination of industry-specific education, practical application, and leadership excellence delivers significant value to both participants and their organizations. My participation as an EMI student further developed my appreciation for our industry and the people leading it.”
Held Aug. 9-13 at the Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Resort & Conference Center, the 61st Annual EMI focused on building leadership through real-world experiences. Enrolling promising managers in EMI demonstrates a company’s commitment to fostering future industry leaders. Participants return annually for a one-week session over four years, engaging in progressive leadership and management development led by university-level instructors.
This year’s program was especially notable because it was held in the Chicago area, a new, more centrally located venue that made it easier for participants from across the country to attend. It also featured a change in Year One instructors. Scott Behson, Ph.D., previously had taught the class with former EMI Dean Kent Baker, who retired after last year’s EMI. Baker passed away in January. For 2026, Behson oversaw teaching duties for all Year One EMI students.
“Attending EMI for the first time was an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Vanessa Mushtare, TRSA certification program coordinator. “It was inspiring to see so many emerging leaders take the first step in a program that has helped develop industry talent for more than six decades.”
As the industry continues to evolve, TRSA remains committed to supporting the next generation of industry leaders through EMI, helping participants build the leadership skills, business acumen and professional connections needed to inspire teams, navigate change and shape the future of the textile services industry. Next year’s program will be held Aug. 8-12, 2027.
Pictured above: Addressing attendees at the Aug. 13 EMI commencement program is Year Four class spokesman Daniel DeAvila, assistant general manager, Prudential Overall Supply, Irvine, CA.
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