Invest in professional growth in 2026
By Rebecca Lintow, CAE, Executive Director | TLT Headquarters Report November 2025
STLE is offering new and returning favorite events to keep industry professionals ahead of the curve in the coming months.
As we look ahead to early 2026, STLE is excited to offer several opportunities that bring together the very best in education, networking and professional growth. These events are more than just dates on a calendar—they are essential investments in your career and your organization’s success.
In today’s competitive environment, it’s not enough to rely on yesterday’s knowledge. New technologies, global market challenges and evolving sustainability goals are reshaping the tribology and lubrication engineering industry faster than ever. That’s why I encourage every professional—and every company in the industry—to make room in their budgets for continuing education. The return on investment is up-to-date skills, stronger technical knowledge and peer networks that benefit both you and your organization.
Here are three upcoming opportunities where budgeting for participation will pay dividends:
• STLE Interactive Lubrication Training Experience, Feb. 10-11, 2026, at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas: Registration is now open for this new two-day course, which will combine classroom and laboratory hands-on training. Designed for those who are new to the industry and those who want to solidify their skills, the classroom focus will be basics of lubrication, components used to formulate oils and greases, application and lubricant selection. The laboratory portion of the course will focus on lubricant testing. Visit www.stle.org/handsontraining for more information and to register today. Space is limited for this new training, so don’t miss out!
• STLE Metalworking Fluid Management Course, March 10-11, 2026, at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Ill.: This popular two-day education program is back for 2026, offering a solid overview of metalworking fluid management that is tailored to provide industry professionals with a comprehensive look at the latest techniques and practices that are sure to improve their metalworking fluid operation. This offering by STLE is unique and unlike anything else in the industry. Registration just opened, so you can be among the first to reserve your spot in this popular course. Visit www.stle.org/MWFManagement.
• The 2026 STLE Annual Meeting: Innovating Through Tribology & Lubrication, May 17-21, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans in New Orleans, La.: The Annual Meeting is STLE’s flagship event for a reason. It combines world-class technical sessions with unmatched networking opportunities. Whether you are presenting research, exploring the exhibit hall or meeting peers in your discipline, this is where the global lubrication and tribology community comes together. Organizations that budget for employees to attend ensure that their teams stay on the cutting edge. Individuals who attend not only sharpen their technical expertise but also build professional networks that fuel long-term success. Registration is set to open Dec. 1, so be sure to check www.stle.org/annualmeeting to follow along as we release program information in the coming weeks.
Budgeting for professional development is about more than attending an event; it’s about staying competitive in a rapidly changing industry. I encourage you to talk with your supervisors and colleagues about making these opportunities part of your 2026 plans. You can find pricing for all events at www.stle.org, and members receive discounted rates. Businesses who support their employees’ participation in professional development opportunities benefit through increased productivity and efficiency, and they also send a powerful message: we are committed to innovation, excellence and growth.
No matter your career stage, investing in STLE’s events is an investment in your future. I hope to see you at one or more of these exciting programs in the months ahead. Be sure to post on your favorite social media platforms about your experience attending using the #STLEConnect hashtag.
You can reach Certified Association Executive Rebecca Lintow at rlintow@stle.org.