On location at the second-annual joint 2024 CFI FCICA Convention in Orlando, Florida, leadership from the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA)—the parent organization for the Certified Flooring Installers (CFI)—and the Floor Covering Installation Contractors Association (FCICA) provide an update on membership, training and what installers have to look forward to in 2025. 

Reuben Potter, owner of Floors By Southern Boys in Manchester, Tennessee, is grabbing consumer attention through traditional marketing methods: billboards, vehicle signage, and sponsoring local groups and events. Listen as we discuss why self-promotion—and professionalism—are important for the independent flooring installer. 

Southwind Building Products celebrates its 30th anniversary during a transformative period marked by significant investments and strategic shifts. We recently spoke with Drew Hash, president and CEO of Southwind, to learn more about the company’s recent wins and what the future looks like as its owner, F9 Investments, looks for new partnerships.

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. 

Bob Peoples, executive director of Carpet America Recovery Effort, discusses the complexities of carpet recycling, technological advancements and California's AB 863 bill, which could significantly impact the flooring industry and carpet recycling efforts.

The International Certified Flooring Installers Association (CFI) recently acquired the Natural Fiber Installers Certification (NFIC), a specialized training and certification organization focused on natural fiber flooring products. NFIC Founder PJ Arthur and Steve Abernathy, COO of the World Floor Covering Association, share how the acquisition will make certification more accessible to installers and promote the craftsmanship of natural fiber installations. 

David Winkler, regional director of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 5, discusses the importance of training, provides insight into the inner workings and benefits of IUPAT, and dispels some common misconceptions about trade unions.