ISFA Hosts U.S. and Canadian Fabricators for Education, Networking & a Shop Tour at Granit Design

Last week, the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) welcomed fabricators from across the U.S. and Canada for an engaging event focused on education, networking, and industry insights. Held in partnership with Baca Systems, Biesse, Cosentino, and Park Industries, the event offered attendees the chance to explore timely topics impacting our industry while connecting with fellow professionals. Participants had the opportunity to interact directly with expert speakers, associate partners, and each other, creating a dynamic environment for meaningful conversations and shared learning. As Omar Chahin of GMD Surfaces put it, “This is the reason I am a part of ISFA. It's the ability to talk to other members, learn from one another, and visit other shops that help to make me better.” The educational sessions covered a range of essential subjects, including: • Sustainability and sustainable product trends • Market analysis and an overview of mergers and acquisitions • Silica safety practices in both the U.S. and Canada • Business development and marketing strategies tailored for fabricators A highlight of the event was the shop tour at Granit Design, where attendees got an inside look at automation, workplace culture, and operational efficiencies in action. Thank you to all who attended and helped make the event a success! Don’t Miss Our Premier Event: The ISFA Annual Conference

Want more opportunities like this? Join us at the ISFA Annual Conference, where surface professionals from across the U.S., Canada, and beyond come together for three days of top-tier educational sessions, meaningful networking, and immersive experiences.

It’s your chance to gain firsthand insights from industry leaders, explore the latest trends, and strengthen connections with fellow fabricators and suppliers. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, navigate market challenges, or discover new business opportunities — this is the event you can’t afford to miss.

Stay tuned for dates, details, and registration info — we’ll see you there!

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ISFA Welcomes Two New Member Engagement Coordinators

ISFA is thrilled to welcome John Lewis and Andrew Young to our team as we continue to strengthen member support and engagement.

John Lewis, Member Engagement Coordinator, brings 20+ years of experience in education and membership sales. He previously supported members of the Tree Care Industry Association, with a focus on continuing education, safety, and business growth. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, golfing, and kayaking in New England with his wife, Julie.

Andrew Young, Advocacy & Membership Engagement Coordinator, brings a diverse background in nonprofits, higher education, B2B tech marketing, and large-scale events. He’s also the founder of Blue’s Smokehouse BBQ—featured in Southern Living. Earlier in his career, Andrew worked in the U.S. Senate and state government. A proud dad of three, he enjoys staying active, writing, and time on the water.

Welcome to the team, John and Andrew!

Stay Compliant with ISFA’s Silica Safety Training & Compliance Management Tools

Did you know that your ISFA Fabricator Membership includes silica safety training? But that’s just the beginning. ISFA provides a powerful compliance management solution designed to keep your business ahead of regulatory requirements with ease.

Simplify Safety Training & Compliance
Managing safety training and compliance can be time-consuming and complex. That’s why ISFA has partnered with Ving, a robust platform that automates tracking, reporting, and training—ensuring your team stays compliant without the administrative hassle.

What’s Included?

• Silica Safety Training & Compliance Tracking
• Automated Notifications & Reporting
• Customizable Training Modules
• This essential benefit is included with your ISFA Fabricator Membership—valued at an estimated $2,500 for up to 20 employees. For larger organizations, the value only grows!

Let ISFA and Ving handle compliance so you can focus on what matters most—growing your business.

Ready to Get Started?
Take full advantage of this membership benefit today and ensure your team is covered.

LEARN MORE AND ENROLL NOW!

Navigating Market Shifts: How Fabricators Are Adapting to Global Disruptions and Tariffs

The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) is keeping members informed on the evolving state of the global surface fabrication industry. With the market—including natural stone, quartz, and engineered surfaces—valued at $50 billion USD and projected to grow 4–6% annually, challenges like supply chain disruptions and new U.S. tariffs are reshaping the landscape.
Join ISFA Today and access the resources, insights, and advocacy you need to thrive in a changing industry.
A tariff for manufacturers is essentially a tax or duty imposed on imported goods that are used in the manufacturing process. These can be raw materials, intermediate goods, or finished components that a manufacturer brings into a country to create final products.

Recent tariff actions, including expanded tariffs on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico, have led to higher material costs and supply chain volatility. These changes are forcing fabricators to adapt by rethinking supplier relationships, operations, and product designs.

Marissa Bankert, ISFA Executive Director, noted, "Despite global instability, our industry remains focused on delivering exceptional, reliable, and innovative products. Our members are rising to the challenge with resilience and vision. Joining ISFA during uncertain economic times provides access to expert advice and valuable resources to navigate challenges and remain competitive."

Many fabricators are investing in domestic or diversified suppliers, redesigning product lines, and reconfiguring machinery. While these shifts require investment, they provide opportunities for greater innovation and long-term resilience.

ISFA is committed to supporting members with education, advocacy, and global collaboration. “We believe in the power of connection and shared purpose,” said Bankert. "ISFA is here to equip members with the tools and insights they need to thrive."

JOIN ISFA TODAY

Unlock Big Ideas in the Q1 Issue of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces

The surface industry is always on the lookout for new ideas, and the Q1 issue of ISFA’s Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine has them! From new design ideas from industry expert Christopher Grubb, president at Arch-Interiors Design Group Inc., who shares his vision of the latest luxury surface trends to new business ideas from business coach and author Mark Allen Roberts, who outlines an innovative growth strategy for businesses, this issue offers new ideas for developing your business. Catch up on news from the ISFA and learn about the latest products and services for building and growing your business. It’s all in the current issue of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces, available online.

READ THE Q1 MAGAZINE

OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program: A No-Cost Way to Improve Workplace Safety

Maintaining a safe work environment is essential for protecting employees and ensuring compliance with workplace regulations. OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program is a free and confidential service designed to help small and medium-sized businesses identify potential hazards and strengthen their safety programs—without the risk of penalties or citations.

What the Program Offers:

• Worksite Hazard Assessments – Identify potential risks before they become costly issues.
• Expert Guidance – Safety professionals provide recommendations tailored to your workplace.
• Compliance Support – Stay ahead of regulations and avoid unexpected fines.
• Training & Education – Improve safety knowledge among employees and leadership.

Why Take Advantage of This Program?

• Over 8,700 injuries are prevented annually through this initiative.
• Participating businesses help save the U.S. economy nearly $1.5 billion each year.
• OSHA provides a grace period for those who request a consultation, allowing time to correct issues without penalties.
• Requesting a consultation is a proactive way to improve workplace safety, reduce risks, and lower costs associated with injuries and compliance violations.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit https://www.osha.gov/consultation

Got an issue in your business that's weighing you down? Tell us about it and we'll consider adding your topic to an upcoming event, virtual or in-person.

ISFA aims to provide the tools and resources you need to break down barriers in your business. If you've got a problem, we've got answers!

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