The Certified Flooring Installers (CFI) and the Floor Covering Installation Contractors Association (FCICA) announce their continued partnership for the second annual joint convention and trade show, themed "Elevate: Take Your Career to the Next Level."

The event offers opportunities for professional growth through educational seminars, networking, and cutting-edge product showcases. The convention is scheduled for October 1-3, 2024, at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Florida.

Building on the success of last year's event, which saw participation from installers, contractors, and over 50 exhibitors, attendees will engage in sessions that provide practical strategies and spark innovative ideas.  

The trade show floor will showcase the latest products and tools from leading suppliers, offering attendees the chance to interact directly and gain practical insights. This hands-on experience ensures participants have the knowledge and resources to excel in their roles and meet industry challenges head-on. Beyond learning, the convention fosters high-energy networking opportunities for professionals to exchange ideas and forge partnerships. 

"Everything here is about individuals learning and connecting with others—it's really about building the individual," said Steve Abernathy, executive director of CFI and COO of the World Floor Covering Association.

Abernathy said the long-term benefits of attending, noting that it enhances professional visibility and credibility among industry peers. The collaboration between CFI and FCICA brings flooring installers and commercial contractors together, emphasizing unity and industry growth. Unlike larger events, this convention offers a personal atmosphere conducive to meaningful interactions and focused discussions. 

Show Highlights

Tuesday, October 1: The convention starts with an optional golf tournament at the Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Club, followed by registration and a silent auction. In the afternoon, attendees can also participate in an optional tour and educational sessions by CFI, concluding with a welcome reception in the evening.

Wednesday, October 2: The day starts with breakfast, registration, and a silent auction. Events include a keynote address, industry update sessions, various educational sessions, product demonstrations, and networking breaks. Attendees can explore the tradeshow and enjoy a reception dinner in the evening.

Thursday, October 3: The final day starts with breakfast and registration, followed by a closing industry panel discussion. The schedule includes educational sessions, product demonstrations, and networking breaks. The event concludes with an awards lunch and an evening reception dinner filled with entertainment and celebration.

Sponsors

Mohawk and Totalworx are proud platinum sponsors, with MAPEI Corporation sponsoring the opening keynote speaker and Sika Corporation sponsoring the closing speaker. Golf sponsors include Traxx, who is supporting four par-three hole-in-one competitions with a top prize of $25,000; Federated Insurance, backing the longest drive; and Synergy Flooring, sponsoring the closest to the pin challenge. Hole sponsors are Maxxon, Novalis, and Titebond. Their dedication underscores the importance of this convention in advancing the flooring installation industry. For sponsorship inquiries, please contact John McHale at (816) 231-4646.

Installer Giveaway

The International Surface Event (TISE) offers a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to TISE in Las Vegas, January 28-30, 2025. The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations, seminars, and expo access. Stop by the TISE booth to register for your chance to win.

Trade Show Exhibitors

Platinum Sponsors

• Mohawk / Performance Accessories 
• Shaw / Totalworx

Keynote Speaker Sponsors

• MAPEI Corporation
• Sika Corporation

 Other Exhibitors

• Advance Adhesive Technologies  
• Ardex Americas
• Beno J Gundlach Company
• Bostik
• Crain Cutter Company
• Crossville
• Divergent Adhesives
• Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF)
• Federated Insurance
• Fortress Stabilization / Crack Stitch
• Go Carerra
• Hank's Specialties / www.FloorToolStore.com
• HMTX Commercial / Teknoflor
• i4F Patents & Technologies
• International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT)
• Laticrete
• Maxxon
• Milliken & Company
• Novalis Innovative Flooring
• Orcon
• ProKnee Corporation
• Proflex Products, Inc.
• Protect-All Flooring
• QEP
• Quantify North America
• Roberts
• Schönox, HPS North America Inc.
• Sunbelt Rentals Flooring Solutions
• StaufUSA Adhesives
• Tarkett
• Taylor Tools
• TEC / H.B. Fuller
• Titebond
• Traxx Corporation 
• The Matworks LLC
• Uzin Utz
• Versatrim
• Wagner Meters
• WFCA
• Wolff Tools

Registration 

Registration is now open to both members and nonmembers. Attendees can choose from full-event or single-day passes. Take advantage of discounted room rates at Rosen Shingle Creek, which are available for a limited time with a secured room block. For more details on registration, accommodation, sponsorship opportunities, exhibitor information, and the event schedule, please visit the official convention website.