Article Number : 1198 |
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| Date | 7/17/2006 5:52:17 PM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=1198 |
| Abstract | Anaheim, Calif.—The International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI) recently held its second Japanese-American Goodwill Installation competition at the World Floor Covering Association’s (WFCA) facility, here... |
| Article | Anaheim, Calif.—The International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI) recently held its second Japanese-American Goodwill Installation competition at the World Floor Covering Association’s (WFCA) facility, here. Jon Namba, WFCA’s director of technical services, along with Hiroshi Tsujio, president of Banzai Trading Co. and Japanese group leader, and Isamu Iijima of the Interior Decorators Association, organized the three-day event. “This type of competition is beneficial for everyone to learn new techniques and admire the qualities of craftsmanship which are evident in both countries,” explained Jim Walker, CFI’s CEO/executive director. “And, even though we have a language barrier, we all speak carpet, we speak vinyl; we speak flooring. Pride is a component that brings everyone together and it was evident that both groups exhibited an abundance of this.” “This was a very enjoyable, rewarding experience for all parties and should be done more often,” noted Tim Provence of Armstrong. He also helped judged the contest. “From what I observed, the installers certainly meet the qualifications for the skills requirements of the Armstrong Certified Installer Program for residential products. At this time, we do not have the test and information about the program available in Japanese. However, Hiroshi and I are working on this project.” The contest involved both resilient and carpet installation. Competition modules were constructed by Ed Braile, Leon Harrison, Kelly Huddleston, John McHale, Jason Namba, Jon and Suzy Namba, Bobby Schurman and Walker. Modules were built for the individual installers to create their presentations which followed the specifications guidelines, noted Jon Namba. “Japanese installers always place high in the European competition and their skills reflect this,” said Walker. “They were surprised to see the numerous new and effective tools used by our American teams.” When questioned why Japanese installers continue to use scissors and knives to cut carpet instead of the cushion-back cutter, one installer commented, “Sure, you can cut it clean, fast and easy if you use a tool but I am a professional and I don’t rely on tools. I have pride in being a professional. I do it the way my boss taught me.” “The cultural differences involved in installation exist throughout the world,” said Chris Davis, president and CEO of the WFCA. “It was a great learning experience for all who participated and we look forward to the next Goodwill Installation Competition.” “This type of event would be impossible without the support of our manufacturing community who graciously donated an abundance of products, tools and prizes for the contestants,” concluded Jon Namba. For more information on CFI, call 816/231-4646. —Kathlene Vercellino |