September 15-17, NASF members and industry partners gathered in Washington, DC for the 2025 NASF Washington Forum. Once again hosted at the historic Willard InterContinental Hotel, the Forum provided a timely setting for the surface finishing industry to engage directly with policymakers and explore the economic and regulatory issues shaping the future of manufacturing.
The program opened Monday evening with a welcome reception, giving attendees the opportunity to connect before two full days of policy discussions and advocacy activities.
On Tuesday, NASF President Steffen Wolkerstorfer, NASF Government Advisory Committee Chairman Mitch Marsh, and NASF Executive Director Craig Addington set the stage with opening remarks, followed by Christian Richter’s update on the NASF industry agenda. Throughout the day, attendees heard expert insights on the U.S. economic outlook, trade policy in 2025, U.S. and global nickel regulation, and federal developments in chemicals and metals regulation.
The keynote address was delivered by Douglas Holtz-Eakin, President of the American Action Forum and former Director of the Congressional Budget Office, who offered a sharp and candid outlook on fiscal policy, the economy and key issues facing business leaders in the year ahead.
On Wednesday, attendees reconvened for breakfast and a policy briefing before many made their way to Capitol Hill for Hill Day meetings with members of Congress and their staff. Participation in Hill Day more than doubled from last year, with over 20 registrants taking part in congressional visits to share the industry’s perspectives on regulation, workforce priorities, and trade.
With 54 registrants overall — surpassing last year’s attendance — the 2025 Washington Forum once again demonstrated the value of bringing industry and government together. The Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for advocacy, education and networking at a critical moment for the surface finishing community.