Behind the Surface

TISE Talk: Insights, Trends, and the ISFA-Cambria Connection

Are you looking to make this year your best yet as a fabricator? ISFA is kicking off the year at TISE (The International Surface Event), and our partner Cambria is joining the excitement as they debut new products and services exclusively at the show. In this episode of Behind the Surface, we will explore the why behind attending TISE. Cambria’s Arik Tendler shares insights on what to expect at the event, highlights their showcase, and explains how networking at TISE can help you jumpstart 2025. ISFA CEO Marissa Bankert discusses how ISFA and Cambria are partnering in 2025, what’s on the horizon for the association, and why TISE is a must-attend event for fabricators. Tune in to this episode to help you decide to attend TISE 2025, happening in Las Vegas, January 28–30.

Selling Your Fabrication Shop: The Ultimate Exit Strategy

Thinking about cashing out on your fabrication business? In this episode of ISFA’s Behind the Surface Podcast, Executive Director Marissa Bankert chats with Chase Busenbark, a business owner and certified broker who grew up in the stone industry. Chase outlines a roadmap to a smooth exit out of the surface fabrication business. Points of interest include: * How to develop a solid exit strategy, even if you're years away from selling. * Why EBITDA matters and how to normalize your financials for a more accurate picture. * The best time to sell to maximize your profit. * How to prepare your business for a successful sale, including presale financial organization and trend tracking. * Dos and don'ts to avoid costly mistakes during the selling process.   Whether you're feeling burnt out, approaching retirement or otherwise changing your path, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to sell your fabrication shop on your terms.

Transforming Fabrication: The Power of Software Integration

This episode of Behind the Surface dives deep into the transformative power of software in the fabrication industry. ISFA Executive Director Marissa Bankert sits down with Mickey Gault, a 20-year fabrication veteran, to explore how software can be as game-changing as new machinery. They discuss key benefits like: * Enhanced communication: Streamline internal and client communication, a critical factor for success. * Improved efficiency and visibility: Identify bottlenecks, manage material costs and gain clearer operational insights. * Tailored solutions: Learn how to work with software providers to find solutions that perfectly suit your needs.   If you’re thinking about implementing software or looking for technology that helps you streamline your workflow, this episode is for you. Learn how to address hurdles, including staff training and effective change management.   Software can be a powerful tool for fabrication businesses, boosting efficiency and overall operations. Tune in to learn how to leverage its potential and get a roadmap to success.

Porcelain's New Era: Trends, Tech Advances & Fabrication Insights

In this episode of Behind the Surface podcast, ISFA’s executive director, Marissa Bankert, sits down with Todd Hibbs, a fabrication specialist from Caesarstone, to explore the burgeoning interest in porcelain slabs. From its rise as a marble alternative to its status as a staple in home design, Todd and Marissa discuss the factors driving porcelain’s popularity. They delve into how technological advancements have transformed porcelain fabrication, making it more durable and versatile than ever before. Todd shares invaluable insights on fabrication techniques and the importance of adapting to new machinery, as well as identifies emerging markets for porcelain. Transportation concerns and practical tips for exploring this material round out the conversation, including a powerful message: Evolve with the times or risk falling behind.   Tune in to learn how to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to porcelain!   Pro Tip: Got questions about working with porcelain? Todd’s got answers. Reach him directly at todd.hibbs@caesarstoneus.com [todd.hibbs@caesarstoneus.com].

The Problem with Silica: What You Need to Know to Maintain a Safe Shop

In the latest episode of the Behind the Surface podcast, ISFA Executive Director Marissa Bankert is joined by Nate Kolenski, president of Block Tops [https://www.blocktops.com/] in California, and Jeff “Corky” Cartwright from Planet Granite [https://planetgranite.us/] in Colorado to discuss what’s been deemed a silicosis crisis in our industry. They will delve into:   * All eyes on engineered stone: bans, regulations and the dangers of respirable crystalline silica.  * A brief history of silica safety standards in the United States.  * How fabricators comply with federal and state guidelines.  * California’s Emergency Temporary Standard: challenges fabricators are facing.  * Common misconceptions within the industry.  Tune in to hear firsthand accounts of how fabrication shops are navigating silica safety regulations and OSHA compliance at a time when government agencies are elevating concerns around the dangers of respirable crystalline silica.  About the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) is globally recognized as a premier trade organization serving the architectural surface industry. ISFA exists to help fabricators and other industry professionals increase product quality, improve safety measures, encourage professionalism and elevate profitability by facilitating education, standards and camaraderie. ISFA values innovation, dependability, trust, honesty, ethics and serving others above all else. Learn more at www.ISFAnow.org [http://www.ISFAnow.org].