ISFA outlines bold new strategy to elevate safety and standards in surface fabrication
The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its role within the countertop and surface fabrication sector by adopting its 2026 Budget and Strategic Framework during the recent 2025 annual conference held in Phoenix. This new strategic plan, extending through 2028, sets a clear vision for ISFA to amplify its voice and enhance its service to the industry.
At the core of the 2026-2028 Strategic Framework are five pivotal focus areas: membership and community growth; safety, health, and regulatory compliance; education, training, and workforce development; advocacy and standards; and relationships and insight. These priorities align with ISFA’s broader mission to build a resilient countertop and surface fabrication community by championing craftsmanship quality, expanding the skilled workforce, elevating consumer awareness, sharing practical expertise, and championing professional standards and workplace safety.
A notable advancement under this framework is ISFA’s ongoing Fabricator Safety Initiative, now entering its second year. This initiative underscores the association’s commitment to proactively protecting workers, enhancing operational safety within fabrication shops, and taking a leadership role in regulatory policy discussions, rather than reacting to external mandates. A key project within this initiative is the development of a national consensus-built standard tailored for countertop and surface fabrication contractors and shop licensing. This upcoming standard aims to define safe and professional shop practices clearly, provide clarity for fabrication shops on their responsibilities, instil trust among manufacturers, distributors, and consumers, and secure the industry a formal seat at government regulatory tables.
To support these ambitions, ISFA is launching the American Countertop Manufacturers Council (ACMC), envisioned as a national platform for fabrication shops to contribute input, forge consensus, and collaboratively influence sector-wide positions. The ACMC is expected to commence membership enrollment later this year, signalling a new era of unified industry advocacy.
Subsequent to the completion of the national standard, ISFA plans to roll out a voluntary shop accreditation programme adhering to ANSI/ISO accreditation norms. This programme will independently evaluate fabrication shops, ensuring their operations meet the elevated national benchmarks. To fund these initiatives, ISFA has initiated a fundraising campaign with the ambitious goal of securing $1 million to bolster the U.S. fabrication trade’s capabilities.
ISFA’s broader role as a 501(c)(6) nonprofit trade organisation extends beyond standard-setting and safety. It fosters a vibrant community of fabricators, installers, suppliers, and allied partners unified by a mission to advance the industry through safety, education, advocacy, and networking. The association offers members access to critical resources including comprehensive safety training programmes, such as those developed in partnership with Ving, which provide OSHA-compliant courses on vital topics like fall protection and silica dust prevention. These efforts reflect ISFA’s determination to equip fabricators with essential tools that enhance workplace safety and operational efficiency.
Further bolstering its safety credentials, ISFA collaborates with the Natural Stone Institute and academic partners like Yale School of Medicine to develop and disseminate medical surveillance guidance for silica exposure. This work not only aids employers and employees in health monitoring but also contributes valuable data-driven insights to inform regulatory agendas, with materials available in multiple languages to ensure inclusivity.
For surface fabricators seeking to stay abreast of industry developments, ISFA hosts exclusive Fabricator Forums, regional, two-day events packed with expert presentations, peer discussions, and facility tours, providing actionable business insights and networking opportunities that help industry leaders navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities.
ISFA’s strategic evolution is further supported by sponsorship programmes designed to promote its initiatives across community growth, safety, advocacy, education, and industry relations. These sponsorship packages offer tailored visibility and engagement opportunities for companies wishing to support and benefit from ISFA’s expanding influence.
In sum, ISFA’s 2026 Budget and Strategic Framework represent a comprehensive blueprint for advancing the countertop and surface fabrication industry. By prioritising safety, professional standards, workforce development, and unified advocacy, ISFA aims to shape a robust future for the trade, empowering fabricators and elevating the sector’s standing.