Articles Tagged with ''Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF)''

In this eye-opening conversation, WFCA President Scott Humphrey and Board Chairman Sam O'Krent pull back the curtain on the flooring industry's biggest challenges. From a revelation about inspector training to innovative funding solutions that could transform the trade, they share candid insights about what's really happening on showroom floors across America. Plus, learn their take on immigration reform and why the next economic upturn could spell trouble for unprepared retailers.

The Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) announced new partnerships and funding initiatives at TISE 2025, including industry-supported "Penny Programs" to address installer shortages. The foundation needs $1.3 million to maintain current scholarship and training programs while expanding workforce development efforts.

In just three years, the Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) has emerged as a powerful force in addressing the flooring industry's critical labor shortage. But for Executive Director Jim Aaron and Director of Operations Kaye Whitener, this is just the beginning.

The World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) announces the retirement of Chief Operating Officer (COO) Steve Abernathy. He will receive the Tom Jennings Award for Excellence during a ceremony at the WFCA booth (2413) at The International Surface Event (TISE).

Leadership change at Floor Covering Education Foundation: Jim Aaron steps down as FCEF's Executive Director after establishing groundbreaking programs across 14 states. Kaye Whitener, former operations director, takes helm to continue addressing industry's workforce challenges.

The Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF), in partnership with the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center, Drake State Community College, and the Industry Task Force, announced the completion of its first pilot cohort for the Flooring Installation Technicians course.

The industry is preparing for 2025 with a focus on improving installation processes and attracting new talent. Initiatives include Mohawk's CFI certification for product development teams, IFC's partnership with FCEF for workforce development, and various educational programs. 

A group of Georgia and Tennessee flooring retailers recently met with students enrolled in the Basic Floor Covering Installation program at Chattanooga State Community College, highlighting the industry's efforts to address a critical shortage of qualified installers. 

Leaders at the Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) offer an update on the organization’s progress in increasing awareness and recruiting people to flooring installation, how they are connecting individuals to quality flooring installation in the industry, and how they are providing scholarships for training.