TradeTalks: Unlocking The Experience

The Experience: More Than a Cleaning and Restoration Trade Show

Helixco’s CEO Mike Allred shares how attending The Experience for the first time changed his expectations

On this episode of TradeTalks: Unlocking The Experience, we’re joined by Mike Allred, CEO of Helixco, who shares his perspective as a first-time attendee at this year's Experience.

With nearly 25 years in the restoration industry, Mike admits he had some misconceptions about the event before attending. What he found was a mix of restoration, cleaning, education, networking, innovation, and business development opportunities that went beyond his expectations.

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Key takeaways of this episode are:

Mike shares his first impressions of The Experience and explains how the event changed his perception of it being primarily cleaning-focused.
One of his biggest takeaways was the opportunity to connect with cleaners, restorers, and vendors from across the country, especially industry peers he hadn't seen at other events this year.
The event's format also stood out to Mike. He shares how the dedicated hours for education, the trade show floor, and networking helped his team maximize their time throughout the event.
Cleaners and restorers can learn from one another, and The Experience brings both industries together to do just that.
Mike highlights the En Español track and the importance of bilingual education and resources for the industry's workforce.

As we begin planning for next year, Mike encourages restorers, cleaners, and industry suppliers who may have skipped the event in the past to take another look at what The Experience has to offer.

Join us at The Experience next year, September 8-10, 2027, at Paris Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada. Interested in sharing your expertise? The Call for Speakers is currently open through December 31, 2026. We look forward to seeing you there!

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KEYWORDS: restoration industry events The Experience

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Kayla McGowan is the Editor-in-Chief of R&R Magazine, with 10 years of experience in marketing and communications in the restoration and cleaning industry. She leads the editorial strategy for R&R and The Experience Events, creating content that informs and connects industry professionals.

Kayla holds a B.S. in Criminal Science and M.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. She serves as Co-Chair on the RIA’s Marketing Committee.

Kayla is a Microbial Warrior®, a Certified Forensic Operator® and a High Risk/ High Level Decontamination Specialist™. Kayla is passionate about elevating the industry, is a food lover, enjoys spending time with her family, and embracing the outdoors.