Finishing Contractors Association of Illinois - FCAI

05/08/2026

Congratulations to RW Vandegraft team members Darrell Craig and Mark Billadeau on being recognized with Excellence Awards from the Finishing Contractors Association of Illinois.

Darrell Craig was honored as Employee of the Year for his leadership, reliability, and dedication over more than 12 years with the company. As a Foreman, he is known for keeping projects on track, supporting his team, and maintaining strong communication between the field and office.

Mark Billadeau received a Safety Award for his outstanding commitment to jobsite safety and professionalism. With eight years at RW Vandegraft and a perfect safety record, Mark consistently leads by example through proactive safety practices, OSHA knowledge, and attention to detail.
Congratulations to both on these well-deserved honors.

Pictured L to R: Mark Billadeau, Kiel Vandegraft, Darrell Craig, and FCAI Executive Director Mark Palmer.

04/10/2026

Great turnout at this year’s trade show—140+ contractors from 50+ companies!

This was the crowd gathering for the cash raffle, but it’s a good snapshot of the day. Contractors came to qualify for rebates, catch up with peers, and spend time with our 19 associate member exhibitors.

Rebates were up this year—ranging from $500 to $7,000 based on prior year hours—and many contractors were ready to put that right back into purchases on the floor.

That’s what makes this event work. People show up with a reason, and exhibitors get real conversations with contractors who are ready to do business. It doesn’t feel like a trade show you have to attend—it’s one worth attending.

Also didn’t hurt: delicious food including mac ‘n cheese bites and a beef tenderloin carving station kept people around a little longer… which meant more conversations and better connections.

Thank you to all of our contractor members and associate members who attended to make this another great event!

Congrats to our cash raffle prize winners: Drew Pehr from Lankford, Brian Russell from Cote Decorating, Nat Ranallo from ARNO, and Sue Sortino from Imagine Yours.

02/18/2026

Our Annual Meeting brought FCAI members together for important updates, industry insights, and an unforgettable keynote from former Chicago Bear Jim Covert.
Were you there? Drop your favorite moment below 👇 and take a look at the highlights!

02/18/2026

Our Annual Meeting brought FCAI members together for important updates, industry insights, and an unforgettable keynote from former Chicago Bear Jim Covert. Thank you to everyone who joined us — take a look at the highlights! Thanks to Signature Connection for the video!

01/30/2026

Last week, FCAI members enjoyed a great night out at the Chicago Blackhawks.

A big thank-you to Pittsburgh Paints for sponsoring the outing and helping make it a fun and memorable evening.

Congratulations to our raffle winner Michael Bandeza from Maxcor; Michael chose a $1,000 gift card from Cabela’s as his prize.

11/03/2025

We had an amazing time at our Fall Meeting with Gary Fencik at Two Brothers Roundhouse! Here’s a quick look back at all the fun and highlights. Thanks to Signature Connection for the recap video!

10/20/2025

Fall Meeting Highlights!

We had a fantastic evening at Two Brothers Roundhouse for our Fall Meeting. Members enjoyed a delicious meal, great conversation, and the chance to meet Chicago Bears legend Gary Fencik.

The night wrapped up with an inspiring Fireside Chat between Gary and our Executive Director, Mark Palmer.

Thanks to everyone who joined us for such a memorable event! 🏈👏

09/25/2025

Got leftover paint piling up? You’re not stuck with it.

Join us September 30 for a webinar with PaintCare to learn about the new Paint Recycling Program launching in Illinois — including drop-off sites, large-volume pickups, fees, and more.

✅ Clear out your shop or trailer
✅ Recycle responsibly
✅ Learn how this program works for YOU

Don’t miss it — register today!

https://www.fcaofillinois.org/event/paintcare-paint-recycling-program-webinar/

09/22/2025

Join FCAI on Thursday, October 16 for our Fall Meeting at Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora. Our guest will be Bears football great, Gary Fencik! Enjoy great food, drinks, and network with finishing contractors. We look forward to seeing you there!

https://conta.cc/4nHXNaM

Join us at the Fishermen's Inn     FCAI September Membership Meeting   Thursday, September 12, 2024  Fishermen's Inn 43W910 Main Street Road Elburn, IL Guest Speaker Bears Hall-of-Famer Dan Hampton W

09/18/2025

FCAI Annual Golf Outing Highlights

The contests were just as exciting as the tournament itself. Congratulations to our winners!
• Longest Drive: Dominic Cosentino, Behr Paint
• Closest to the Pin: Gary Hillesheim, All-Tech Decorating
• Straightest Drive: Terry Matlock, K&J Painting
• Putting Contest: Chad Oates, KOJA Construction