Flooring Consultants and Inspection Training Services (FCITS) has taken a bold step forward in its mission to elevate industry standards by convening its first broad industry Advisory Board. Expanding beyond inspectors to include installers and manufacturers, the board reflects FCITS's commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement. It unites respected leaders to strengthen the industry’s future.

Led by FCITS Director Beth Sorrell, the inaugural meeting brought together six professionals representing a diverse range of perspectives. Rod Von Busch, chair of both the Certified Flooring Installers (CFI) and World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) Boards, also participated to underscore the importance of industry-wide collaboration.

“This board shows our belief that diverse input is not just valuable—it’s essential,” said Sorrell. “By bringing together voices from different parts of the industry, we’re building something bigger than ourselves. We want advice, accountability, and ideas to better serve our industry and ensure our inspectors are equipped to meet real-world demands.”

The Advisory Board will meet quarterly to provide strategic insight into emerging trends, workforce needs, and training opportunities, helping FCITS strengthen resources and elevate industry standards.

The board will also guide FCITS in exploring ways to enhance the thoroughness, consistency, and credibility of inspection processes. As products and technologies evolve, inspectors must keep pace with them. A transparent process for ongoing certification will ensure FCITS-trained professionals remain the industry's most trusted experts—reinforcing FCITS's reputation for rigorous, respected training. 

The FCITS Advisory Board includes:

• Nick Carter, Field Services Technical Manager, Shaw Floors
• Nabrasson Carrell, Field Tech Services Manager, Engineered Floors
• Dave Garden, CFI Master II Certified Installer and Instructor, FCITS Certified Inspector and Lead Instructor
• Bruce Gentry, Commercial Field Service Manager, Mohawk Group
• Tony Hojnacki, FCITS Inspector, Owner at Failsafe Inspection Solutions LLC
• Brian Stevens, CFI Master Installer, FCITS Certified Inspector, Owner Stevens Installation Company
• Roland Thompson, CFI Master Certified Installer, CFI Chapter Committee Chairman, CFI Instructor, FCITS Instructor

Together, FCITS and its Advisory Board are setting a higher bar for inspections and collaboration to keep the industry strong, credible, and future-ready.

For more information about FCITS, visit fcits.org.