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.