37th Annual Conference Preview

Episode 40 – Smooth Finish // Conference Preview   In this milestone 40th episode of Smooth Finish, the crew gives you a full insider's look at the 37th Annual National Plasterers Council Conference, happening February 18–20, 2025 at the Westin Anaheim Resort. From committee work and education to golf outings, brewery tours, Disney, Spanish-language classes, and the growing Women of the NPC movement—this is your walkthrough of what to expect (and why you really shouldn't miss it).  If you've ever thought, "Should I go to NPC Conference?" or "Is it worth joining a committee?" this episode lays it all out.    What We Talk About in This Episode  Conference Overview – Westin Anaheim Resort  Dates: February 18–20, 2025  Why the timing is perfect as a "springboard" for the upcoming season  How this conference has stayed strong and relevant for 37 years  Committee Meetings & Getting Involved  Pre-conference committee meetings on February 16  Why showing up early is the best way to plug into the NPC's work  How committees help you give back and grow your business and network  St. Louis Recap – Pre-Conference Committee Weekend  Behind-the-scenes tour of Busch Stadium  Trying on championship rings and swinging Stan Musial's bat  Suite night at the St. Louis Blues game  How weekends like this show the blend of serious work + real community  Education & Classes You Can't Miss  Strong technical education focused on plaster, not product pitches  NPC Start-Up Certification – plus the growing curriculum  NPC Pro App Start-Up Class – how the app documents every step, protects your company, and educates homeowners  Spanish-Language Education Expansion  Debut of Spanish-language Start-Up Certification  Six additional Spanish-language classes led by fluent Spanish-speaking instructors  Why this is a major, intentional commitment to the Spanish-speaking side of the industry  Women of the NPC  Dedicated Women of the NPC event at conference (now a full-hour program)  Laura sharing her story as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry  How women are stepping into leadership, including Laura as incoming Chair in 2026  Why this initiative matters for the future of the trade  Networking, Golf & Brewery Options  Casual NPC golf outing – fun, not intimidating  Alternate brewery tasting & lunch option for the non-golf crowd  How both events are designed for relaxed, real networking  Receptions, Exhibits & Auction  Opening reception sponsored by NPT / National Pool Trends with a Latino/Spanish-themed party and mariachi band  Exhibitor reception: focused, high-quality time with manufacturers and suppliers  Silent auction highlights, including multiple trips and stays donated by members (Lake of the Ozarks, Branson, and more)  NPC Pro App in the Real World  Laura's story of showing the app to a homeowner in real time  How the app closes the loop on documentation and communication  Why every company doing start-ups should be using it  Flex Your Finish: Win Your Way to Conference  How the #FlexYourFinish social media contest works  Monthly winners receive a free conference registration  At least a dozen members coming to Anaheim because they participated  Free exposure for your company + chance at a free registration = huge win    Key Takeaways  The NPC Conference isn't just "another show" — it's the technical and networking hub for plaster-specific education.  There's a clear on-ramp for deeper involvement: join a committee, attend the meetings, and be part of shaping standards, research, and education.  The Spanish-language education expansion and Women of the NPC are major steps forward, reflecting where the industry is today and where it's going.  Between Anaheim, Disney across the street, golf, brewery tours, and great receptions, this conference delivers serious value and serious fun.    Links & Resources  NPC 37th Annual Conference Info & Registration Visit: nationalplastererscouncil.com  NPC Pro App – Start-Up & Water Chemistry Tool Search "NPC Pro" in the Apple App Store and Google Play  Flex Your Finish Contest  Post your best work  Use #FlexYourFinish  Tag The NPC for a chance to win a free conference registration  National Plasterers Council - nationalplastererscouncil.com/annual-conference    Takeaways  It's about having fun, not competition.  The event is very casual and welcoming.  Participants can enjoy breakfast and drinks.  No pressure for golf skills; everyone is included.  Meeting new people is a key aspect of the outing.  The event starts with a relaxed schedule.  The camaraderie among participants is important.  The focus is on enjoyment rather than performance.  It's a community event that fosters connections.  The atmosphere is light-hearted and enjoyable.