World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) announced the promotion of Steve Abernathy to chief operating officer (COO), effective January 1, 2023. In his new role as COO, Abernathy will be responsible for overseeing the execution of the strategic vision of the organization and its divisions, as well as leading forward-thinking operational strategy and performance. As COO, he will continue to report to WFCA's CEO, Scott Humphrey.

Abernathy has 39 years of senior leadership experience and a proven track record of accomplishments deploying a unique combination of skills, including business strategy and planning, financial and accounting expertise, technology experience, and marketing savvy to drive growth and improvement across a wide variety of functional disciplines. He joined the World Floor Covering Association in 2015 as vice president of finance and was subsequently promoted to chief financial officer later that year.

Prior to joining WFCA, Abernathy spent 28 years with Shaw Industries in various roles, including industrial engineer, director of retail operations, and director of marketing technology. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology from Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta, GA. Abernathy has served on the board of directors of the Floor Covering Education Foundation since its inception in 2019.

WFCA president Scott Humphrey said, "Steve is a well-respected leader at the WFCA and has been a vital part of our growth and success. With his elevated responsibilities spearheading CFI and a deep understanding of our business, Steve is uniquely suited for his role."