On June 12, 2023, DeGraaf Interiors kicked off the first retailer-led, five-week International Certified Flooring Installers (CFI) training in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Five students received scholarships through the Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) with the other half of the tuition covered by DeGraaf and another area retailer.
Deb DeGraaf, president and owner, DeGraaf Interiors, and chair, FCEF, announced the partnership with FCEF in February, during The International Surface Event (TISE). The five-week course is being taught by Alania Lagatore, assistant manager, Lagatore’s Carpet Inc. and CFI #15417.