Just like that, another International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (WFCT) is done. The colors of the show floor, the electric energy of the competitions, and the opportunities at sponsor booths now exist only in our memories.

And what a memorable event it was. That’s especially true for the competition winners, whose names will go down in window film history, and the hall-of-fame inductees, Chris Brooks and Erik Devash.

WFCT 2026 already holds a special place in my memory, too. I got to meet many of the people I’ve been corresponding with, like Brooks, Devash, Mike Burke of Sun Stoppers, Gabe Fletcher of Detailing Growth, Darrell Smith of the International Window Film Association (IWFA) and Christina Horsley, Smith’s successor as executive director.

Another memory involves the sudden thunderstorm that hit San Antonio on the evening of Aug. 28. Like many others, I was caught outside in the storm. Unlike most people, though, my colleagues and I decided to brave the elements and keep walking rather than taking shelter in a storefront. We started to regret that decision after several blocks of wind-blown rain and flooded streets, but we stayed in high spirits the whole time.

Like most WFCT attendees, I am back to my daily work. Competitors are either relishing their victories or strategizing for next year, and sponsors are following up on leads. Many of us are also preparing for the next big thing: the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.

Many members of the window film, paint protection film and wraps industries will pack their bags once more and head to Las Vegas for that expo. We all have a little time to breathe, though. The SEMA show will take place Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, giving everyone a full eight weeks to prepare and break in their best walking shoes.

Window Film magazine will be there right alongside the rest of the industry – drop by West Hall booth 5105 to say hello.