Kansas City, Mo.—In less than a month,
installers from around the world will gather at the Westin Crown Center Hotel
here to help the International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association
(CFI) celebrate its 10th anniversary. The celebration is just one component of
the organization’s annual convention which gets under way Wednesday, Aug. 13
with the second annual CFI Chapter Conference and runs through Sunday, Aug. 17.
Based on the success of the inaugural chapter meeting—it drew a crowd almost too
large for the meeting room—this year promises to be even better as five more
chapters have been started since last convention.
Things really get going the next morning with
the annual Leadership Conference which is once again sponsored by the World
Floor Covering Association ( WFCA). This half-day program is where today’s CFI’s
leaders and future leaders get together to share their knowledge. At the 2001
Leadership Conference it was noted there was more than 1,000 years of
installation knowledge gathered in one room. The event is also designed for CFI
members to achieve WFCA’s Certified Flooring Professional (CFP) designation. At
the conclusion of the conference an optional written test will be available for
members wishing to take obtain CFP status. “WFCA sponsors this event to expose
future leaders to dynamic ideas and to contribute information that assists in
the success of the installation community,” said Chris Davis, CEO of the WFCA.
“It’s always an exciting and well-attended event.”
As for the CFP, Jim Walker, CEO of the CFI,
said, “Only floor covering professionals who demonstrate the desire to stand
out, the dedication to serve, and proven industry competence will be awarded
this designation of achievement. The certification designation is a symbol of
accomplishment and designed to be recognized with respect by other floor
covering industry individuals and customers throughout the world. “In this age
of increased competition” he added, “current and prospective customers alike are
seeking credentials that recognize knowledge and experience. Competitors know
this kind of designation gives the competitive edge.” Following the Leadership
Conference, CFI’s 10th annual convention, “The Race Of Success,” kicks into full
gear with more workshops and seminars than ever before.
In addition to the more than 30 seminars and
workshops that will be available on Saturday alone, Armstrong World Industries
will present a half-day program on Thursday afternoon for resilient installers
to test for the Armstrong Certified Installer designation. To encourage
participation, Armstrong has waived the $295 registration fee for CFI installers
attending the convention. “This year,” Walker explained, “speakers and seminars
are packed full of educational topics and timely information for the entire
industry. That’s why we invite all industry associates to take full advantage of
what CFI has prepared during our celebration of a decade of dedication to
installation excellence.”
All courses are taught by industry
professionals who are regarded as experts in their field. Some of the topics
scheduled for this year include classes on a variety of installations, featuring
carpet, ceramic, resilient and laminate; ways to improve your business including
computer use and public speaking; the latest on concrete, mold and testing
procedures, and more advanced installation techniques—from handsewing to
patterns to stairs. Along with the educational sessions, attendees will once
again have the chance to get first-hand knowledge of what CFI suppliers are
showcasing with the second CFI Racing Teams segment which takes place from 10
a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday.
“This addition was a huge success last year
and has been heavily requested by associates for 2003,” CFI stated. Members are
divided into teams with each one wearing a colored shirt bearing the name of a
CFI Jacket Sponsor. Team captains lead their group to each exhibit of an
associate sponsor of the 10th Anniversary Jacket, which will give a 20-minute
presentation. The time can be used for questions, a short demonstration or for
sharing product knowledge. Beyond all the educational opportunities offered at
this year’s convention, CFI has made sure attendees will have plenty of good
times and chances to interact with each other in a more relaxed, non-business
environment. Numerous prizes and gifts will be up for grabs through a myriad of
games and contests, such as the Skills Competition.
Some of the prizes being donated by suppliers
include trips to Germany, a Florida fishing trip, gift bonds from Cabela’s and a
$4,500 floor stripper, to name a few. New for this year, keys will be handed out
for installers to have a chance to unlock the grand prizes. Each installer will
receive a “Key to Success” upon arrival. Also, CFI will present its 10th
Anniversary Collector’s Jacket which features 47 sponsors, including Floor
Covering News which has supported and covered CFI since its inception. Speaking
of jackets, those installers who have been involved in at least 50
certifications will be presented their 50+ jackets.
Installers who have achieved Master II status
will also be honored as will members who have gone above and beyond the call of
duty with the annual Charlie Gress Award, named after one of the organization’s
most be-loved and respected members. During this morning reception on Saturday,
attendees will see a retrospective of highlights from CFI’s first 10 years. The
convention will conclude with a gala reception commemorating CFI’s 10 years of
existence. In addition to the food and entertainment the association is planning
“a great surprise” to round out the evening. For more information or to
register, call CFI at 816/ 231-4646.
