Last week, I had the absolute pleasure of representing Paint Track at the Painting Contractors Association’s (PCA) Women in Paint Conference. It was truly an unforgettable experience! This year’s event took place in Nashville, Tennessee, a city I’ve always wanted to visit and one that absolutely lived up to its reputation. We were honored to be hosted by Ring’s End, alongside an incredible group of women from across New England who play key roles in their painting businesses. From owners to project managers, team leaders, and beyond.
Known as “Music City,” Nashville is celebrated as the heart of country music and home to legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. Beyond the musical history, the city is filled with southern hospitality, creativity, and energy, making it the perfect setting for this event.
A Record-Breaking Year for the PCA Women in Paint Conference
This year’s Women in Paint Conference was the PCA’s largest non-Expo event ever, with over 170 women (and a few men) in attendance. That doubled the turnout from last year’s conference in Hollywood Beach, Florida, which I was also fortunate to attend.
This growth speaks volumes about the momentum and progress women are making in the painting industry, and the importance of having spaces where we can exchange ideas, support one another, and celebrate progress together.
Education, Leadership, and Collaboration
Throughout the week, we had the chance to hear from an incredible lineup of industry leaders, business owners, and craft professionals. Each speaker brought a unique perspective, with some focused on leadership and operations, others on craftsmanship, and many addressed the challenges and triumphs of women in a traditionally male-dominated field.
One of my favorite sessions was the Brain Melt on Day 2. For those unfamiliar, a Brain Melt is an open, rapid-fire discussion where participants share ideas, struggles, and success stories around specific topics. Think brainstorming meets group therapy! Hearing insights from women representing companies similar to Paint Track, as well as those operating entirely different business models, was eye-opening.
The conversations were rich, thought-provoking, and full of takeaways.
Top row (left to right): Pantea Umrysz – East Coast Pro Painting, Kim Cochran – Biddeford Painting, Elizabeth DeJager – Ring’s End, Shelly Denning – SD Paint, Shannon Ferguson – Ring’s End, and Angela DeMaio – K. Morgan Painting.
Bottom row (left to right): Alyssa DeMaio – K. Morgan Painting, Caitlin Johnson-Jones – Benjamin Moore, and Jessica Molina – Paint Track Painting Services.
Building Bonds Beyond the Conference
Our hosts, Ring’s End, went above and beyond to ensure our group had an unforgettable experience outside of the sessions, too. Each evening we shared wonderful dinners filled with laughter, reflection, and connection.
One of the standout experiences was our visit to House of Cards, an underground speakeasy that instantly transports you to another era. The dim lighting, vintage décor, and ambiance set the scene for a live magic show that left everyone completely mesmerized by the talented performers. It was one of those nights with great food, great times, and great company.
Why the PCA Matters to Paint Track
At Paint Track, being part of the Painting Contractors Association isn’t just about business growth in terms of numbers. It’s about education, craftsmanship, and community.
The PCA is so much more than most people realize. It’s a national organization dedicating itself as a resource to advancing the painting trade by offering education, industry standards, and opportunities for professional networking. We don’t attend these events just for show or to focus solely on making more money. We participate to raise the bar for our craft and operations, and contribute to a stronger, more respected trade overall.
Through national events like the PCA Expo and smaller conferences like Women in Paint, contractors come together to learn and grow not only as businesspeople but as craftsmen, leaders, and community members. These experiences remind us that success isn’t measured solely by revenue, but by quality, integrity, and the positive impact we leave on our clients, teams, and the industry.
Thank you to the women of our industry.
This event is a celebration of female leadership and resilience. It reinforces that women belong in every aspect of this industry, whether that’s on the ladder or in the office.
Being surrounded by women who understand the unique challenges of this trade, yet continue to lead with passion and purpose, is truly inspiring. You leave these events not just with new contacts and strategies, but with a greater sense of purpose.
A heartfelt thank you to the PCA for organizing such a meaningful event and to Ring’s End for inviting Paint Track to be part of their group this year. Their support made the experience unforgettable.
To all the amazing women in attendance, thank you for your insights, your authenticity, and your drive. Together, we’re proving that the future of the painting industry is going to be one for the books!
We are Women in Paint!
Until next time, Nashville.
— Jessica Molina
Project Manager, Paint Track Painting Services
Project & Marketing Manager
Jess is the epitome of organization and follow-through! She began her journey in the field, painting full-time with the team and learning from experienced members, before transitioning to business operations. She uses her education in marketing to grow the Paint Track brand, bringing a unique perspective to each project. With her years of field experience, Jess is highly effective in running projects and helping her coworkers with sequencing and setting expectations to consistently deliver high-quality work.
As one of the few women in the painting industry, Jess is often asked what inspired her to pursue this career. Her answer? A passion for creativity, hands-on work, and the desire to apply her artistic talents on a larger canvas to transform homes. She found that painting offered the perfect blend of skill, artistry, and satisfaction in transforming homes. Jess is proud to bring her unique perspective to Paint Track and hopes to inspire more women to join the industry.
Jess’s passion for marketing has led to fresh ideas and innovative approaches for the Paint Track brand, helping to increase visibility and connect more effectively with clients. Known for her supportive approach, Jess is always willing to lend a hand, offer advice, and keep the team motivated and aligned. Recently, she has become involved in local networking groups, actively working to expand her personal and professional growth. As an active member of PCA’s Women in Paint, Jess is part of a community that empowers women in the industry, and she is currently continuing her college education online in marketing alongside her full-time position.
Her dedication to growth, both personally and professionally, is a testament to her commitment to excellence, and we’re excited to see how her contributions continue to shape our team and brand!
Skills: Project management, digital design, sequencing
Hobbies: Going to concerts, arts & crafts, and Netflix binging
Favorite Paint Color: Benjamin Moore Purplicious CSP-465