As a working professional, there’s a never-ending opportunity to level up tangible skills and intelligence quotient (IQ). New Year’s resolutions usually have me on a path reading books and taking online or in-person courses that teach me how to do something new: level up marketing tactics, become a better writer or editor, improve strategy, increase creativity, etc. I’ve also been fortunate to have mentors throughout my career and volunteer work who have helped me level up skills and build the confidence to try new things. Not everyone is as fortunate to have that sort of mentor—or the means to take courses for professional development. 

In July of last year, I received an invitation from Scott Humphrey, CEO of The World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), to participate in a pilot of a groundbreaking leadership development program. The SEAL (Seeking Excellence As Leaders) Leadership Development and Certification Program is the first of its kind in the flooring industry and aims to foster leadership excellence that benefits both professional ambitions and personal growth.  

In a collaboration with Lead Every Day, an organization celebrated for its 30 years of cultivating influential leaders, the SEAL Academy is designed to arm professionals with the skills, mindset, and certification needed to lead with integrity and navigate the complexities of today's business world. 

The four-month course is a self-paced journey that provides structure and a flexible learning experience designed to accommodate the busy schedules of professionals, promoting deep learning and significant personal growth. More than 50 carefully curated modules, enhanced by weekly text interactions and monthly personal coaching sessions via Zoom, facilitate a hands-on learning environment under the guidance of experienced leaders. The curriculum is lead by the insights and experiences of business coaches Randy Gravitt and Mark Miller, whose backgrounds guarantee a rich, impactful learning experience. 

Yes, there are a lot of IQ takeaways from this course, but what struck me was the focus on emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management. The things that sometimes don’t come naturally and can be tough to teach. 

Participants of SEAL get the opportunity to earn an industry-wide recognized leadership certification, symbolizing their commitment and achievement in leadership excellence. For more information and to enroll, visit SEAL Academy. 

The certification is open to individuals at $299 annually or $29 monthly, and companies can engage up to 10 employees for $999 annually, ensuring leadership development is within reach for all scales of the flooring industry. In addition, WFCA is offering a 10% discount to WFCA Premium Plus Members.  

For an in-depth understanding of the program's potential and a personal invitation from Scott Humphrey, watch this special message.