This year’s Project Management Summit in Kohler wasn’t just another industry trip. It was an immersive experience that blended craftsmanship, innovation, and a forward-thinking look at how we shape the client journey. Hosted at one of the most iconic names in home design and manufacturing, the summit gave Alair PMs a rare behind-the-scenes look at a brand whose values echo our own: a commitment to quality, a passion for people, and a belief that homes should improve the way we live.
We sat down with one of our partners and project managers, Alair Grey Bruce’s Carson Blodgett, to recap the experience and share what made this gathering so memorable.
Please tell us about the PM Summit in Kohler and what it meant to you.
It was an incredible venue and the hospitality from Kohler was next level. Getting to connect with PMs from across the organization was energizing. There was camaraderie, great conversations, and a shared sense that we are part of something bigger. Yes, we build beautiful homes, but the real joy comes from the relationships we create along the way. This summit was a reminder of that.
What surprised you most about the brands or products you saw?
Maybe not surprising, but it was great to rekindle relationships with vendors and discover new offerings. I was impressed with how quickly Kohler was able to turn things around for a Partner in our region once the right people were engaged. It showed what aligned effort can do to provide timely service for our clients.
What was your favourite part?
Definitely the factory tour. It was a powerful demonstration of teamwork, continuous improvement, and quality control in action. Seeing how intentional every step was made me think differently about how we operate.
What do you attribute Kohler’s legacy to?
Their willingness to invest in their people and their community. You can feel the pride in being a multi-generational, family-owned business. That kind of culture is built over time and shows up in everything they do.
What is a key takeaway for those who couldn’t attend?
Systemizing quality control at every stage matters. If we want to offer the most consistent and exceptional experience possible, checks can’t be a final step. They must be built in from the beginning. Another important takeaway was the value of contributing ideas that elevate our teams. Kohler actively implements employee suggestions, and those ideas continue improving their processes years later.
Tell us about the wellness experience and where Kohler is headed in that space.
They are diving into wellness in a serious way with sauna options, cold plunges, and products designed to support holistic living. Wellness isn’t a once-a-year spa day; it’s the intentional daily choices that improve our physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being.
My wife, Megan and I have a sauna and cold shower at home, and we’ve seen how it strengthens our relationship, routines, and quality of life. Kohler is creating products that make those choices accessible at home, not just at a resort.
How will your learnings inspire clients going forward?
Kohler didn’t just tell us about their products, they showed us how and why they’re different. Those demonstrations help us guide clients through planning and product decisions so they can invest in features that elevate their lifestyle and wellness every single day.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I think it’s exciting to see wellness becoming part of home design. When we bring these offerings into our personal spaces, we don’t have to sacrifice time or convenience to maintain a balanced life. The journey becomes more enjoyable when daily life supports well-being.
The PM Summit was more than a tour. It was a look at what’s possible when craftsmanship, culture, and curiosity collide. Kohler reminded us that exceptional homes are built not only from quality products, but from intentional choices, strong relationships, and a belief that our work can improve how people live. That’s a message we are proud to carry home to Alair Grey Bruce and to every client we serve.
