The CCAI and AR Iron
As the nation’s largest professional organization devoted to powder coating, the CCAI has a long history of supporting the people and businesses that offer industrial finishing services. Below is a look at the history of the CCAI and the specific ways AR Iron and the CCAI work together to continually improve powder coating services in Las Vegas and across America.
What is the CCAI?
“CCAI works to raise the standards of finishing operations through educational meetings and seminars, training manuals, certification programs, and outreach programs with colleges and universities.” – CCAI
CCAI refers to the Chemical Coaters Association International. Categorized as a technical and professional organization, the CCAI is dedicated to improving the quality of powder coating and industrial finishing services through technology and education. Through paid membership in the CCAI, individuals and corporations enjoy an extensive array of training and educational resources designed to enhance service delivery.
AR Iron is proud to be a custom coater member of the CCAI. By coordinating programs and events, AR Iron’s General Manager, Tony Sclafani plays a key role on local and national levels.
Why was the CCAI established?
The CCAI was established over 50 years ago to provide powder coating providers and other industrial finishing specialists with support, guidance, and resources. CCAI helps their members improve their businesses and learn about new technology by offering the following:
- An Annual Meeting during which members network, listen to feature speakers, and engage in open discussions about the latest technology
- A Calendar of Events that features design symposiums, golf outings, tours, and seminars during which members share tips and experiences
- A Help Line that members can call for technical assistance and information about powder coatings
While the CCAI is known for its “family-like” atmosphere that encourages engagement between members, the CCAI also encourages members to venture outside their comfort zones and learn the latest finishing techniques. Learning and development are continually stressed, with the association’s ultimate goal to serve as the finishing industry’s premier resource for education and networking.
How does the CCAI gives back to the community?
“Education is a key pillar of the Chemical Coaters Association International’s (CCAI) mission. This led to formation of the Chemical Coaters Association International Finishing Education Foundation (CCAIFEF) which was established as a 501 (c)(3) tax exempt charitable organization in November 2018.” – CCAI and CCAIFEF
CCAI members are passionate about providing cost-effective educational and training opportunities to people interested in entering the industrial finishing and coatings industry. Over the years, the CCAI has formed partnerships and secured funding to develop the following initiatives:
- The CCAI scholarship program: CCAI has awarded over $100,000 to students who pursue advanced education in finishing technologies.
- Workshops for Warriors: This state-licensed 501(c)(3) nonprofit school trains veterans and service members to enter the manufacturing field.
- Online educational programs: CCAI continually develops programs that enable trainees to complete course requirements from home.
- Women in Finishing: CCAI offers professional development activities to women pursuing careers within the industrial finishing industry.
In addition to these initiatives, CCAI facilitates internships for students and even helps to match prospective employees with regional finishing companies. There is even a CCAI website devoted to students who are interested in learning more about powder coating.
How is the CCAI structured?
There are currently fifteen chapters of the CCAI. Each chapter has a President, Secretary, and Board who provide direction on a regional level. As President of the Las Vegas Chapter and Treasurer of the National Board of Directors, AR Iron’s Tony Sclafani plays a key role in the association’s operations. In addition to an annual meeting and other national events, each chapter offers a variety of regional events and resources such as the following:
- A photo gallery that displays images taken during regional plant tours, seminars, and membership outings
- A group directory that lists the names of individual and corporate members in each chapter
- A blog that features articles and posts pertaining to powder coating and metal refinishing
Increasing membership in the CCAI is important to the long-term success of the industrial metal finishing industry. New members are actively recruited and welcomed on the CCAI website upon joining the association. The CCAI also offers guest website registration to prospective members who are interested in learning about activities and events sponsored by their local chapters. Many prospects end up becoming paying members of the CCAI.
What lies ahead for the CCAI and AR Iron?
“Through CCAI’s Finishing Education Foundation, we will expand our reach into educating the industry, and work to recruit the next generation of employees.” – Anne Goyer, CCAI Executive Director
The powder coating industry is expected to grow significantly over the next several years, with analysts predicting the industry to grow 5.4% per year and become a $15 billion industry by 2026. As the industry’s premier resource for professional development, the CCAI will continue to educate its members about the latest cutting-edge powder coating techniques. Recruitment will also be a top priority as the CCAI prepares for the future.
The AR Iron team will continue to play a prominent role in CCAI activities, going beyond their Corporate membership to actively educate people who are new to the industry while engaging with the community about the benefits of powder coating.
What should you do if you are interested in learning more about powder coating?
Clearly, there are many reasons to learn more about powder coating. Whether you are a student seeking an internship or a Las Vegas business owner in need of powder coating services, it is important to seek the guidance of an industry expert.
If you are interested in finding out more about powder coating, contact us at AR Iron. Our team of metal finishing specialists welcomes the opportunity to connect with you and help you achieve your goals. Whether you are exploring employment opportunities or looking to restore outdoor patio furnishings at your apartment complex, Tony Sclafani and the rest of the AR Iron team are here to help you. We look forward to helping you learn more about powder coating!
