The International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI) Inc. is teaming with a group of Carpet One retailers for an installation-training program to be held in the Sacramento, Calif., area Oct. 21-22. The event is part of a new series of educational installation programs that enable installers to work in small groups concentrating on skills training. The installers work in teams based on years in the trade to address specific situations of interest. The cost is $290 per installer with registration and payment due prior to the event.

The training schedule includes sessions on cutting and seaming of carpet, power stretching and trimming techniques, pattern matching and correction of bow, skew and pattern elongation and stair upholstery using the glue-gun technique. All installers are invited to participate in the training including those who do not have the required two years of experience or who are not seeking immediate certification. At the conclusion of the program, those installers who are eligible can complete a written test to obtain the R-I and/or C-I CFI Certification. Registration forms are available at www.CFIinstallers.com or by contacting the CFI National Office at 816.231.4646. Registration is required. Installers are required to provide their own tools.

The training session will take place at:

Xpress Global Facility
11255 Pyrites Way
Gold River, California 95670

The Carpet One retailers sponsoring the event have opened it to all installers in the area. "Carpet One is excited about this opportunity to encourage the installers to attend." said Jeff Krekelberg, Owner of Gold River Floors Carpet One of Sacramento. "Working together, it is our goal to provide our customers in the area with the most proficient installation professionals. The Carpet One Regional Group is planning to train and certify installers on a regular basis. We see the value in education and the difference it can make for our installation teams."

Speaking at the recent Sacramento Valley Floor Covering Association meeting CFI's Jim Walker said, "Training is the most important opportunity that installers have to keep their skills and knowledge updated. Today's carpet backings and patterns require advanced knowledge. They cannot be installed using yesterday's methods. I commend your association for working together to sponsor an educational event that targets the installation community."