Airline & Aerospace Finishing (CAF) Classroom Course

Includes a Live In-Person Event on 06/01/2026 at 8:00 AM (CDT)

Take the Airline & Aerospace Finishing (CAF) live at SUR/FIN 2026 in Rosemont, Illinois.

2 Sessions, Monday, June 1-Thursday June 2, 2026 8:00 AM-5:00 PM CT. 

The Airline & Aerospace Surface Finishing (CAF) Classroom Course provides a comprehensive overview of metal finishing operations commonly used in the airline and aerospace industry.

Upon registration, learners will receive access to the full CAF eLearning course, which includes downloadable materials, recorded live instruction, knowledge-check questions, and additional resources. Participants are expected to review all eLearning materials prior to the start of the live classroom course.

The live classroom sessions will not cover all CAF content. Instead, instruction will focus on the most critical topics and allow time for interactive discussion and Q&A.

Instructors will also host office hours for live Q&A on June 3–4 at the NASF booth on the show floor. Attendees are encouraged to stop by for one-on-one time with an instructor. Cost of course includes access to show floor during SUR/FIN.

Course Description: This course will provide a broad range of information related to metal finishing operations that are ‎common in the Airline/Aerospace industry.‎

Learning Objectives: Those completing this course and/or earning the CAF certification are able to demonstrate

  • Expertise in each step of the surface finishing process related to the aerospace industry ‎from preparation & manufacturing to final inspection.‎
  • The ability to anticipate, recognize, diagnose, troubleshoot, and correct surface finishing ‎discrepancies, anomalies, or defects.‎
  • Competence in matching plating strategy to the end-use application and environment

Recommended Time and Experience: The CAF Prep Course and Exam covers advanced processes and techniques that require a strong ‎Foundation in chemistry and math only provided through work experience and/or specialized ‎training. The course and exam are structured for an individual who has at least 3 years’ experience in ‎the Aerospace or the Surface Finishing industry. A two-year degree or higher in a STEM related ‎program is helpful but not required.‎

Designed For: Individuals working in a facility following NADCAP standards. It is recommended, but not limited to ‎individuals in the following positions: Quality & Plating Management; Vendors and Suppliers of ‎Chemistry & Equipment on the commercial and technical level; Technical Specialists (R&D, Lab) ‎within Aerospace.

Course Content Level: Advanced (300 level)‎

Elective: Primary Elective for Master Surface Finishers (MSF) designation.‎


Key:

Complete
Failed
Available
Locked
SUR/FIN 2026 Classroom Course Information
06/01/2026 at 8:00 AM (CDT)   |  1 day, 9 hours
06/01/2026 at 8:00 AM (CDT)   |  1 day, 9 hours All SUR/FIN 2026 Classroom courses will be taken onsite in Rosemont, IL at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center on Monday, June 1st-Tuesday, June 2nd from 8:00 AM-5:00 PM CT. The Airline & Aerospace Surface Finishing (CAF) Classroom Course provides a comprehensive overview of metal finishing operations commonly used in the airline and aerospace industry. Upon registration, learners will receive access to the full CAF eLearning course, which includes downloadable materials, recorded live instruction, knowledge-check questions, and additional resources. Participants are expected to review all eLearning materials prior to the start of the live classroom course. The live classroom sessions will not cover all CAF content. Instead, instruction will focus on the most critical topics and allow time for interactive discussion and Q&A. Instructors will also host office hours for live Q&A on June 3–4 at the NASF booth on the show floor. Attendees are encouraged to stop by for one-on-one time with an instructor. Cost of course includes access to show floor during SUR/FIN More information, including room location, will be sent closer to SUR/FIN via email. If you have any questions, please email us at kkind@nasf.org
You must register to access.
Glossary of Industry Terms
Open to download resource.
Open to download resource. This glossary encompasses the majority of terms utilized in the industry, specifically focusing on those with specialized meanings relevant to surface finishing processes. Terms commonly used in the Foundation’s courses may not be reiterated here.
You must register to access.
Formula Worksheet
Open to download resource.
Open to download resource. This formula worksheet is designed to support the NASF Foundation Courses. We recommend downloading a copy for your records.
You must register to access.