Session Previews
Here are brief summaries of the sessions being presented during the Technical Conference on November 5, 2026. Want to know more? Click on the "learn more" link at the end of each summary for full session content, presenter bios
Session #1: 8:30 a.m., Augusta-Capitol-Pine Rooms Upstairs
Overview:
Mold concerns are widespread, but distinguishing evidence-based information from misinformation is essential. This session explores the relationship between mold exposure and health, emphasizes effective qualitative assessment over unnecessary testing, explains the limitations of mold measurements, and provides practical strategies for risk communication. Participants will gain tools to evaluate online information, understand diverse stakeholder perspectives, and make informed decisions about assessing, managing, and communicating indoor mold issues.
Presenter
Paula Schenck, MPH, Environmental Health Specialist, UConn Health, Farmington, CT
Session #4: 11:15 a.m., Washington/York Rooms Upstairs
Case Studies of Mold & Moisture Investigations
Overview:
This presentation on case studies of mold and moisture investigations will consist of descriptions of both new and older buildings that have health concerns, visible water intrusion and/or damage or visible mold. The methods used in investigations and testing along with actual findings will be demonstrated through a visual presentation along with some hands-on demonstrations of equipment used.
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Presenter
Jeff Preble, CxA, BECxP, CxA+BE, The Turner Group, Concord, NH
Session #7: 3:00 p.m., Washington-York Rooms Upstairs
IAQ Starts at the Building Envelope: Why Moisture Management is Fundamental to Healthy Buildings
Overview:
Good indoor air quality starts with keeping buildings dry. This session explores how unmanaged moisture—not just inadequate ventilation—is a leading cause of IAQ problems, mold growth, and material deterioration. Evolving climate conditions, such as more frequent periods of humidity and extreme weather, create additional risks. Attendees will learn how rainscreens, drainage planes, ventilation mats, and other moisture-management strategies create healthier, more durable buildings by preventing water accumulation, improving drying potential, and reducing long-term indoor air quality risks through sound building enclosure design.
Presenter
Ted Winslow, Director of Product & Technical Sales, Advanced Building Products, Sanford, ME
Session #2:10:00 a.m., Augusta-Capitol-Pine Rooms Upstairs
Mold, Money, and Myths: Separating Science from Snake Oil in Building Moisture and Mold Management
Overview:
When is mold remediation necessary—and when does it go too far? This engaging panel explores the science, ethics, and business realities behind mold assessment and remediation. Experts will examine common controversies, including excessive testing, unnecessary demolition, conflicts of interest, biocide use, AI-generated remediation plans, and standardized recommendations. Through real-world examples, attendees will learn how to make evidence-based, building-specific decisions that protect occupants while avoiding unnecessary costs and interventions.
Moderator
Erin Wright, Lab Director, EMSL, Portland, ME
Session #5: 1:30 p.m., Augusta-Capitol-Pine Rooms Upstairs
When is a Mold Complaint Not a Mold Problem?
Overview:
Most indoor air quality complaints initially blamed on mold are ultimately caused by something else. This presentation outlines a proven, systematic approach to investigating occupant complaints by treating them as indoor air quality issues—not mold problems—until the evidence says otherwise. Attendees will learn a practical investigation process that prioritizes building science, identifies root causes, avoids unnecessary mold testing, and has successfully resolved hundreds of cases while satisfying both building owners and occupants.
Presenter
Scott Lawson, President/CIH, The Scott Lawson Group, Concord, NH
Session #8: 4:15 p.m., Augusta-Capitol-Pine Rooms Upstairs
Survey Says! Family-Feud, Mold Style
Overview:
Wrap up the conference with a lively, interactive Family Feud-style game that puts your mold and moisture knowledge to the test! Through friendly competition and expert commentary, attendees will challenge common myths, reinforce key building science concepts, and revisit practical lessons from the conference. It's a fun, engaging way to strengthen evidence-based decision-making while ending the event with plenty of laughs and lasting takeaways.
Moderator
TBA
Session #3: 11:15 a.m., Augusta-Capitol Pine Rooms Upstairs
Overview:
Not all mold sampling methods provide meaningful answers. This session reviews when sampling is appropriate, which techniques yield the most useful information, and the limitations of common testing approaches. Through real-world case studies and microscopy images, attendees will learn how to interpret laboratory results critically, recognize overlooked contamination sources, and select sampling strategies that better identify hidden mold exposures and support informed recommendations for clients.
Presenter
Jeffrey May, IAQ Investigator, CIAQP, CMC, May Indoor Air Investigations, LLC - Tyngsborough, MA
Session #6: 3:00 p.m., Augusta-Capitol-Pine Rooms Upstairs
Overview:
The IICRC S520 (the standard used by most remediation professionals) has guided mold remediation for more than two decades, but is it time to reconsider how it is applied? This session examines the history and intent of the S520 classifications, explores the gap between practical application and scientific evidence, and introduces additional building science and environmental factors that can strengthen remediation decisions, improve professional judgment, and better serve clients while honoring the framework's original purpose.
Presenter
Carl Grimes, HHS, CIEC, Hayward Healthy Home Institute, Monterey, CA