June 6, 2026 — Rosemont, Ill. — The National Association for Surface Finishing (NASF) welcomed nearly 1,900 attendees to SUR/FIN® 2026, held June 2-4 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. The annual event brought together professionals from across the surface finishing industry for three days of technical education, business development, networking and innovation.
SUR/FIN 2026 featured 168 exhibiting companies showcasing the latest products, technologies and services supporting the industry, while more than 70 educational and technical sessions provided attendees with opportunities to deepen their knowledge and explore emerging trends shaping the future of surface finishing.
This year’s technical program covered a wide range of topics, including PFAS treatment and management, wastewater technologies, artificial intelligence, operational efficiency, aerospace finishing, electroless nickel, anodizing, workforce development and emerging surface engineering applications. Attendees also participated in classroom training courses, certification exams, committee meetings and networking events designed to foster meaningful industry connections.
SUR/FIN 2026 also featured keynote and plenary presentations from respected leaders in economics, manufacturing and aerospace surface finishing, providing attendees with valuable perspectives on the broader trends influencing the industry.
Beyond the educational programming, attendees enjoyed numerous networking opportunities throughout the week, including the Welcome Reception, Industry Night at Impact Field and a variety of show floor activities that helped bring together professionals from across the surface finishing supply chain.
Recognizing Excellence in Surface Finishing
A highlight of SUR/FIN 2026 was the annual NASF Awards Ceremony, which recognizes individuals whose contributions have helped advance the surface finishing industry through innovation, leadership, technical achievement and service.
Congratulations to the 2026 NASF Award recipients:
Scientific Achievement Award
Elizabeth Podlaha-Murphy, Clarkson University
Award of Merit
Brett Larick, Columbia Chemical Corporation
Patrick Deland, Technic Inc.
Lon Thrasher, Palm Commodities International, LLC
Tula Puja, Accu-Labs, Inc.
August P. Munning Award
Brad Majoy, PAVCO, Inc.
Taormina Award
Mitch Marsh, Marsh Plating
NASF is proud to recognize these outstanding individuals for their dedication to advancing the science, technology and future of surface finishing.
Remembering Robert “Bob” Zobbi
SUR/FIN 2026 also provided an opportunity to honor the memory of Robert “Bob” Zobbi, recipient of the 2025 NASF Scientific Achievement Award, who passed away in October 2025 following a remarkable 66-year career in surface finishing.
A respected chemist, inventor, educator and mentor, Bob made significant contributions to the field of precious metals electroplating and held dozens of U.S. patents related to plating chemistry, precious metals refining and finishing technologies. His work continues to influence the industry today through technologies and processes that remain widely used across surface finishing operations.
Beyond his technical accomplishments, Bob was remembered by colleagues as a generous mentor who devoted countless hours to helping others learn, grow and succeed in the industry. His influence extended across generations of surface finishing professionals, many of whom benefited from his knowledge, encouragement and willingness to teach.
As the 2025 Scientific Achievement Award recipient, Bob’s recognition represented the culmination of a distinguished career dedicated to advancing the science and practice of metal finishing. His legacy will continue to be felt throughout the industry and within the NASF community for years to come.
NASF extends its sincere appreciation to the exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, volunteers, committee members and attendees whose support helped make SUR/FIN 2026 a success.
Looking Ahead
Planning is already underway for the next NASF events:
SUR/FIN 2027
June 8–10, 2027
Long Beach Convention Center
Long Beach, California
Interested in attending, exhibiting or sponsoring? Submit your interest here:
https://nasf.informz.net/NASF/pages/SURFIN_2027_Interest_Form
Washington Forum 2026
September 21–23, 2026
Washington, DC
Learn more:
https://nasf.org/events/washington-forum/
Leadership Conference 2027
February 28 – March 3, 2027
Phoenix, Arizona
Learn more:
https://nasf.org/events/leadership-conference/agenda/
For additional information about NASF, SUR/FIN and upcoming educational opportunities, visit NASF.org.