The Seacole surface finishing team returned from SUR/FIN energized by new technical insights, stronger supplier relationships, and positive feedback from customers and industry partners. From electroless nickel education and emerging zirconium pretreatment trends to meaningful networking opportunities, the conference reinforced Seacole’s commitment to growth, expertise, and exceptional customer service.
Our surface finishing team just got back from SUR/FIN, the National Association for Surface Finishing’s annual conference, and they have a lot to share from their time on the floor! Let’s dig into their takeaways, starting with our newest team members, territory managers Jeramie LeClair and Tom Dougherty.
Jeramie’s First Impression of SUR/FIN
Jeramie LeClair, Territory Manager
This was my first show with Seacole. It was great to meet all the sales reps from the companies we partner with as a distributor. I appreciated being able to put a face with a name and talk shop!
From a technical perspective, I very much enjoyed listening to the EN Bootcamp. I found it interesting to learn about high, mid, and low phos, their applications, and what, when, and why they are used. My previous experience focused on electroless nickel immersion gold, so seeing these other applications for electroless nickel plating were edifying.
To get in touch with Jeramie, you can email him or call 612-583-7053.
Tom Focused on Relationships
Tom Dougherty, Territory Manager
The surface finishing industry is all about relationships. Yesterday’s competitors could be tomorrow’s suppliers. It’s important to connect no matter what your role is currently. That’s one of the things I enjoy most about attending SUR/FIN.
One technical takeaway I had was related to cost and green chemistry. As OEMs look for greener solutions and Tier 1 suppliers seek to reduce costs, zirconium looks like a great replacement for current phosphate chemistries.
To get in touch with Tom, you can email him or call 763-234-0593.
Clay Enjoyed His First Show
Clay Lanners, Purchasing Manager
This was my first show with the surface finishing crew. SUR/FIN was an incredible overall experience that’s going to have a lasting impact on me. I was able to formally meet and see some of the suppliers I’ve been interfacing with over the last six years.
At our booth, we received many positive comments on the surface finishing team we are developing. The market is excited to see our continued growth.
To get in touch with Clay, you can email him or call 763-582-1168.
Tyler Appreciated the Kudos
Tyler Thomas, Director of Sales & Marketing
One of the most gratifying things about this year’s SUR/FIN was seeing the team strengthen their relationships with each other and with their peers in the industry. Customers and suppliers praised our team for their professionalism countless times. If you were one of them, thank you! It’s our pleasure to serve you.
To get in touch with Tyler, you can email him or call 763-582-1140.
Gregg Was Proud of the Team
Gregg Elliott, CEO
I was proud of our team’s performance and was reminded several times by customers and vendors who noted the commitment we are making to the industry.
From our entire team, we want to extend a big THANK YOU to NASF for hosting another superb SUR/FIN conference this year. We’re looking forward to attending SUR/FIN 2027 in sunny Long Beach, California, next year! See you then!
Have a surface finishing question or project you need assistance with? Bring us your surface finishing challenges, and we’ll deliver solutions. Contact us today to get started.
SUR/FIN Surface Finishing FAQs
What are the advantages of zirconium pretreatment compared to phosphate-based coatings?
Zirconium pretreatments are phosphate-free conversion coatings that contain no regulated heavy metals and are free of organic components. They provide excellent paint adhesion and corrosion resistance while helping manufacturers meet environmental and sustainability goals.
When should I choose zinc phosphate over iron phosphate?
Zinc phosphate is typically preferred when parts require enhanced corrosion resistance and long-term coating durability. Its fine-crystal phosphate coating creates a chemically inert, corrosion-resistant surface that is ideal for demanding applications and harsh operating environments.
What industries rely on surface finishing processes?
Surface finishing is used across a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical device manufacturing, electronics, general manufacturing, and metal fabrication. These industries depend on surface finishing to improve product quality, reliability, and longevity.
What types of chemistries are used in surface finishing?
Surface finishing processes may utilize cleaners, degreasers, acid and alkaline treatments, conversion coatings, plating solutions, passivation chemistries, and paint pretreatments. The specific chemistry depends on the substrate material, performance requirements, and desired finish.
How can Seacole help optimize my surface finishing process?
Seacole provides technical expertise, process troubleshooting, laboratory testing, and access to leading surface finishing chemistries. Our team works with customers to identify challenges, improve process efficiency, and recommend the right products for their specific application.
