We will have some awesome opportunities for you to learn more about modeling and the subjects of your models. We are working to line up some great speakers and instructors for both free seminars and paid workshops throughout the convention for those having full registration. As we lock down presentations, we will have more information here and on the convention Facebook site. Times and room locations will be posted here and on the Schedule on this site. We have also posted the schedule as a PDF below.
If you have questions on seminars as they are posted or suggestions for speakers, please reach out. We want to be sure your interests are covered to make this convention a great experience.
Looking forward to meeting you all.
John Martin
Sessions Coordinator
2026_seminars@ipmsusa.org
Seminars
Testing Tomcats: A Grumman Perspective on 32 Years of Flight Test and How to Model It All by Haagen Klaus
The F-14 Tomcat achieved renown in combat and fame in movies, but a lesser known part of Tomcat history spanned more than three decades of Grumman experimental and production flight test out on the east end of Long Island. This seminar unpacks this history, from the flight of the first F-14 in 1970 into the development of new engines, sensors, and capabilities along with the F-14A(Plus) and F-14D development programs of the 1990s. Throughout, scale modelers will see what needs to be done to build models of the most unique and rare F-14s that ever existed.
The Battle of Jutland by Dr. John Wiebe
A summary of the events of the Battle of Jutland, May 31-1916. The biggest engagement between battleships in history!
The Naval Arms Race to Jutland by Michael Wildner
Discussion will focus on the strategies and tactics of the opposing fleet commanders as well as the naval technologies and their use - or sometimes misuse - that contributed to the outcome.
The Perfect Airbrush for You by Giovanni Costanza
We’ll help you discover which airbrush is the best fit for your specific needs, the types of models you paint, and the results you're looking to achieve.
The Rise of the Machines by Bernard Kempinski
Learn how steam power was harnessed to make the machines that made the machines that powered the industrial revolution. Background, design, and construction of a 1/48 scale powered machine shop.
The Ultimate Guide to Brush Care by Mandy Rozema
Learn the types of brushes, when to use them and how to make them last as long as possible.
USS Princeton (CVL-23) in World War II by David Leick
The USS Princeton (CVL-23) was a light aircraft carrier commissioned in February 1943 and earned 9 battle stars. She participated in two daring raids on Rabaul in 1943 and participated in the Central Pacific Drive as a part of Task Force 58/38 until taking a lethal bomb hit at the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944.
What are Special Interest Groups (SIGS)? by Joe Terry
Join us as we explain the role Special Interest Groups play in IPMS/USA, what constitutes a SIG, and how you can start your own!
Workshop: A Painterly Approach with Jim Rice by Sabot Miniatures
During the two-hour workshop, expert painter Jim Rice will teach painting leather, wood grain, eyes and other features on figures. Participants will need to provide their own brushes and wet palette.
Workshop: Airbrushing and Masking Skills by Grex
By the end of this day-long workshop, you will learn to use and clean an airbrush, thin paint and mask designs. You will then paint camouflage on a WWII aircraft. The course fee includes a model and all necessary supplies. Each workshop has limited seats and is for those ages 14 and older.
