The National Industrial Fastener Show/East is returning to Columbus, Ohio, where it began in 1981, for its 28th annual incarnation, “Make the Connection,” May 20–21 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

In addition to the one-day trade show, the event features a Gala Welcoming Reception May 20 at 5:30 p.m. and a pair of fastener seminars.

In “Fastener Specifications and Terminology,” presented by the Los Angeles Fastener Assn. May 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Bengt Blendulf of fastener industry consulting firm EduPro, and Carmen Vertullo of training/consulting firm Simply Better will explain the consensus standards governing the fastener industry, including the terms and definitions used in fastener specifications and how to identify and meet customer and industry requirements.

In “U.S./Asian Fastener Market Trends and Update,” presented by the Western Assn. of Fastener Distributors May 20 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., a panel of experts from the United States and Asian fastener markets led by Bruce Darling of Porteous Fastener Co. will provide an update on what is happening at home and abroad, and give insights on what the future might hold.

Show organizers anticipate 200 exhibitors at the trade show, which runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21.