Article Number : 2542 |
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| Date | 9/26/2007 1:37:45 PM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=2542 |
| Abstract | (Kansas City, MO) At the recent CFI Convention in Kansas City, MO, new programs that will enhance the value of certification were implemented... |
| Article | (Kansas City, MO) At the recent CFI Convention in Kansas City, MO, new programs that will enhance the value of certification were implemented. Jim Walker, CEO, “CFI has become the go-to source of flooring professionals that is used not only by the industry, but consumers who are more knowledgeable than ever concerning their desire for a quality flooring installation. To provide this and to ensure that our members are current on all the latest techniques, products, tools and backings, each certified installer will be offered the opportunity to attend an updated program in their area beginning January 1, 2008. Those who take advantage of this will be listed in the directory and on the Internet with the current date of attendance at an update program. This provides those who are searching for the most knowledgeable and skilled members of the trade, the opportunity to use their services. This is another way that CFI believes that education continues to be the driving force to enhance our membership.” Program Specifics 1. All CFI Certified Installers will be required to update every 3 years to maintain the credibility for the CFI organization and its members. 2. Installers will be charged a fee of $100.00 to update and must register in advance. 3. Installers who participate in the update process maintain their current level of Certification and may register for advancement if they choose, up to R-ll or C-ll, at a regular certification. Charges will apply according to number of levels. The update fee of $100.00 is waived and regular fees are administered. 4. This is considered a form of continuing education that is required for most professional careers. Today, it is more important when one has attended an update program than to state how many years of experience. Systems, products, tools and techniques change rapidly. 5. The CFI Directory and website will list the current update with the installer’s information. Recognition of Levels of Achievement Jon Namba, Executive Director explained that CFI flooring installers will also be recognized at various levels of achievement to coordinate with the current identifications. “The R-I (Residential) and C-I (Commercial) Installers will carry the Bronze Logo; the R-II, C-II, Master designations are identified with a Silver Logo; Master Updated is a Gold Logo, which signifies that the installers recently updated their skills and the Master-II is identified with a Platinum Logo. These designations make it easier for the consumers to understand the levels of certification. This will also be implemented January 1, 2008. After speaking with consumers, manufacturers and dealers who offered positive responses and did not thoroughly understand the requirements of the various levels of certification, the CFI Board of Directors concluded that this type of labeling is a universal understanding of achievement.” Requirements for Commercial-II Advancement “Also beginning in January 2008, successful completion of the CFI Patterned Carpet Workshop will be required to be awarded the C-II (Advanced) level of commercial installation,” stated Leon Harrison, President. “The commercial field desperately needs flooring professionals who are proficient in the installation of patterned carpet. Earning the C-II designation not only enhances the skills and knowledge of the installers, but makes them more marketable.” “As you can see, CFI has been extremely busy during this past year in anticipation of the new programs. We encourage all members of the industry to get involved. The days of “just supplying labor” are over. Customers demand professionals who are highly qualified and hold advanced communication skills and knowledge to install their flooring. CFI is meeting the need and the demand for talent has never been greater,” stated Namba. Maintaining CFI Membership He continued, “CFI installers who fall behind two years on their dues may retain the R-I and C-I Certification designation by paying $290.00. They lose any certification above these levels and are required to retest to regain the advanced categories. This is necessary due to the increased requirements of the testing program. It is critical that all installers at the advanced levels are skilled and knowledgeable with current information. The industry has come to expect CFI installers to perform at a level far above what is normally accepted in the field. The membership is proud of this and has initiated numerous programs to provide the highest form of professionalism available.” Partnership with FIANA The new partnership FIANA has opened doors to the distributor network that is sponsoring educational events and training sessions at their facilities. Information is posted at www.CFIinstallers.com. WFCA Membership Benefits All CFI training and certification programs benefit from the partnership with the World Floor Covering Association. Membership in the WFCA provides 100% reimbursement for CFI programs as well as the benefit of business training and knowledge. For more information, contact the CFI National Office at (816) 231.4646 or visit the website at www.CFIinstallers.com. |