Celebrating Surface Finishing

Each new year represents new potential. As we enter 2025, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary community that makes up the surface finishing industry. Over the past four years I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know this community — one that PF has served since 1936 — and it has opened my eyes to the important role that coatings and finishes play in our everyday lives. From the cars, planes and trains that move us, to the infrastructure that connects us, and the tools and devices that we use every day, almost everything we touch benefits from the surface protection and corrosion resistance that coatings and finishes provide.  

Each one of you — from seasoned professionals to emerging innovators — plays a vital role in shaping our field and driving it forward. At PF, our mission has always been to connect, inspire and elevate our industry. Each year, we strive to improve and find new ways to do just that. Here’s a quick overview of several exciting programs we have lined up for 2025 that are designed to celebrate your achievements, provide you with tools for growth, and foster a sense of connection and camaraderie within the finishing community.

First, mark your calendars for National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD), which takes place March 5, 2025. This annual celebration is an opportunity to showcase the incredible work happening in your shops and facilities. By opening your doors — whether virtually or in person — to the public or your local community, you can help to educate others about the value of surface finishing and inspire the next generation of talent. Some great ways to participate in NSFD include offering student shop tours to local trade schools, inviting local elected officials to tour your facility, celebrating your employees and sharing your story via social media using the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD. Let us know how you’re celebrating, share photos of your event and tell the world about the important work you do.

Next, our Top Shops Benchmarking Survey is back and better than ever. Participating in this annual program provides invaluable insights into your shop’s performance and offers benchmarking data to help you measure your key operating metrics and stay competitive. Participants in the Top Shops benchmarking program receive a customized report showing how their responses compare to other facilities. This enables participants to better assess strengths and weaknesses, and to determine areas for future improvement. It’s a resource you won’t want to miss as you plan for success in the year ahead. In addition, companies that rank in the top 20% are recognized as PF Top Shops and celebrated in the pages of PF, through our various media channels and at industry events. Make sure to check out profiles of qualifying Top Shops and read about their recipes for success in our Top Shops Insider column.

PF also continues to shine a spotlight on the outstanding individuals who move this industry forward. Each year, we recognize the surface finishing industry’s next generation of emerging leaders through its annual 40 Under 40 awards program. Do you have a colleague who inspires you or know someone who bring new ideas and fresh perspective to the finishing community? Nominees should be potential leaders, trailblazers, and hardworking industry volunteers and community members who go above and beyond to give back.

Meanwhile, this year marks the inception of a new award program we’re calling the Champions of the Industry. This award honors the leaders and trailblazers in the industry who continue to pave the way with their dedication and expertise. Throughout the year, you’ll find announcements and profile stories of those selected for this special recognition.

As we embark on this new year, I encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities to connect, learn and grow. Whether you’re celebrating your team’s accomplishments, engaging in continuous improvement initiatives, or nominating someone to be recognized for their service, your participation strengthens our industry as a whole.

Here’s to a 2025 filled with innovation, collaboration and success. On behalf of everyone at PF, I wish you a happy and prosperous new year.