Filtering End-of-Year Reflections

As 2023 comes to a close, I am reflecting on this year and the past few years – and now, a busy 2024 ahead. I am grateful to have met so many amazing people in this industry since taking on the Chief Content Officer role at International Filtration News I have been to many of the trade shows around the world, and am in awe at the solutions this industry offers to societal and industrial filtration and separation needs.

In years prior, filtration considerations in my world consisted of keeping our home water cooler stocked so we could avoid drinking tap water (as a preference), and keeping the filter in the HVAC changed to avoid a service call for a clogged drain (more of a financial decision than about air quality). I’ve always had my oil and other filters changed to extend the life of my vehicles (which I drive until they die). And changing the refrigerator filter is a must, or else out the ice goes out of service. During COVID-19, my awareness as to risks of airborne germs rose, but being able to work from home, I just basically didn’t leave the house as a remedy.

Fast forward to today.

I am delving into the science of the industry, and working with our expert writers to share thought leadership and expertise with the readers to educate, inform and inspire. My vocabulary has dramatically changed. I understand in depth more of the industry’s issues and the world’s needs, along with products, services and applications that make a difference to meet them.

Overall, my hope is that we encourage you to think outside the box. We strive for smart, educated content that moves the needle and represents the important work that you do collectively as an industry. We hope that our bird’s eye view when approaching a subject provides perspective on how the pieces can all work together towards solutions that drive change.

This issue presents innovation that illustrates the best of filtration. Each year, we strive for it to be the best source of inspiration in the industry. This year’s entries start on page 10.

During one show this year, I had the opportunity to tour the AAF International Clean AIR Center. This impressive facility is cutting edge. Nikki Sasher presented one lab where research was conducted during COVID-19, and it was fascinating. The story on the lab’s history and work is on page 20.

In Tech Talk on page 38, Matt O’Sickey, Director of Education & Technical Affairs, INDA, walks us through 2023 and peers into 2024. He perfectly sums up where we are and what lies ahead. It is worthy of a good read.

Happy holidays and, as always, thanks for reading!

Caryn Smith

Chief Content Officer & Publisher, INDA Media, IFN