The median age of the construction labor force is 42 years old—one year older than a typical worker in the national labor force. However, there’s cause for optimism, as data shows that Gen Z (those born between 1997–2012) are more likely than Millennials (born between 1981–1996) to enter the construction industry when they were the youngest generation in the workforce. Surveys show that Gen Z workers are attracted to construction because of factors including high costs of college education, competitive construction wages, job security and potential for growth.*
WFB asked for insights from some of the younger workers in the wood flooring industry about their careers paths, their managers and how the industry can attract younger workers like them. Here are their stories.—K.M.W.
Joe Strohmeyer
Age: 21
Location: Green Bay, Wis.
Company: Green Bay Floor Restore & Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Title: Hardwood floor technician
Years in the Industry: 5
What’s your experience been like?
Fun. I like being able to see a project from start to finish whether it is a “turd” (as my dad and I call it) on refinishes sometimes or if it’s just someone looking to update a room and install new. I won’t lie, even being only 21 I can still feel the physical tolls the trade can bring; at times my back, knees or hips feel twice my age. But at the end of the day seeing the satisfaction and joy a skill I can offer brings someone feels worth it.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
My manager/boss is my dad. At times we may butt heads, but I feel that’s inevitable sometimes when working with family. I feel my father was a great teacher and mentor when I first started in this business, and has taught me lessons based on mistakes and stuff he’s learned through his years in this business. If I had advice for a manager I think it’d just be to have trust, trust in what you’ve taught your guys and the process you go through with a floor and to trust that they’re willing to put their name on that floor, not just the business.
What keeps you in the industry?
Satisfaction—seeing a project from start to finish and being able to offer someone my skills. But also freedom: I plan on taking over my father’s business when he retires. Being my own boss and setting my own schedule aligns with how I want to live my life.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
You ain’t talking to the right ones. I’ve got a lot of friends that I know who are in trades. I also feel my generation has taken a big shift in going away from four-year college and are pursuing two-year technical degrees and the trades.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
Do yoga and get a good set of knee pads, haha.
Noah Smith
Age: 22
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Company: Smith Hardwood
Title: Foreman
Years in the Industry: 7
How did you get into the industry?
It’s my dad’s company. I’ve been working with him since I was 3 years old.
What’s your experience been like?
Great! I’ve learned to work hard. Floor sanding isn’t easy, but it’s rewarding.
What’s your experience been like with managers? Advice for new managers?
Be patient. Becoming a good floor sander takes a lot of time. Also, lead by example. My dad is the hardest working human I know.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
I say that’s true. That’s why I’m gonna continue to work hard so that I can take advantage of all the opportunities coming my way. This industry has become so niche because it’s physical, detail-oriented, hard work. Most young people aren’t willing to do that when they can have an easier job.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
Be prepared to work hard.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Dust, sweat and sticky floor finish.
Max Losch
Age: 21
Location: Centre County, Pa.
Company: Nature’s Finest Floors LLC
Title: CEO
Years in the Industry: 4
How did you get into the industry?
A friend’s boss asked me if I wanted a job, and I never looked back.
What’s your experience been like?
A blessing. I’ve met some amazing people through this trade.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
My manager at my first floor job, Lawrence, saved my life. He taught me to put out my best effort in everything I did, even outside of work. If it wasn’t for him I’d be dead or in prison.
What keeps you in the industry?
I’m in the industry for customer satisfaction. I’ve found this job to be very rewarding, and I plan on sticking in the trade for as long as possible.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
I tell them it’s true. Most of my friends are 30 to 40 years old. It’s really hard to find help my age that doesn’t feel entitled to an experienced floor mechanic’s pay without putting in the time.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
There is nothing as rewarding as this trade. From the before-and-afters, to the awesome people you meet along the way, there’s nothing quite like it. With that being said, don’t treat your body like it’s bulletproof. PPE is very important for longevity in this trade.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Lack of job opportunities, low pay, lack of awareness, etc. Most kids my age are being told by guidance counselors to go to college, not to go to a trade school or to learn a trade.
Josh Vuletich
Age: 30
Location: Youngstown, Ohio
Company: Affordable Hardwood Flooring
Title: Foreman
Years in the Industry: 15
What has your experience been like as a young wood floor pro?
I started working part time when I was 15. I didn’t really want to work but I needed money for a car and doing things with friends. If I got in trouble, my dad would make me edge floors on the weekend as punishment (of course he would still pay me). I started enjoying it more and more. After college I realized I really loved it; it was something I could see and touch after every job. My dad taught me everything I know—it was really special being able to work with him every day. It’s been a great career, and it never gets old. Every job has its different challenges, which I love.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
I’ve had managers when I was younger that would always leave all the grunt work to the people under them—tasks like edging, water-popping, corners and emptying vacuums. I didn’t mind that, but I could see other employees quickly getting irritated. I became a manager at a young age, so I was in charge of employees who were almost always older than me. I think it’s important to try and jump in from time to time and do the grunt-work tasks.
What keeps you in the industry?
I plan to work till the day I die (God willing). No matter how big or small the job is, the satisfaction from a job well-done is an amazing feeling. I love doing custom work and thinking, “I wonder what’s next?”
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
It does annoy me when older generations rag on the younger generation. I know there are younger people who don’t want to work, but I think that has been the case for every generation. I always say, sure but I want to work, and I do a great job. So does our other employee, Gunner, who is 19 and has been working his butt off for us for over a year now. There are plenty of young guys with a great work ethic.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Really just the lack of understanding of the profession. Most kids don’t even know this can be a career. They don’t know how cool hardwood floors can look.
Victoria Alford
Age: 33
Location: Oxford, Miss.
Company: Vic’s Custom Trim & Hardwood Floors
Title: Hardwood floor specialist
Years in the Industry: 8
How did you get into the industry?
My father and brother, Vic and Cody Alford, introduced me to it!
What’s your experience been like?
It’s been the best life-changing job! I’ve learned so much about life and responsibilities being in this industry.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
I’ve had two of the best teachers/managers anybody could ask for. But the best teacher, in my experience, has been the floor. It teaches you all you need to know. Patience, confidence and consistency is the key!
What keeps you in the industry?
Being able to see the homeowners when we get done with the job is the best part. I will absolutely stay in this industry.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
We need to help them and expose them more into these trades, in my opinion.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
DO IT!!! It’s the best decision you’ll ever make! And work your butt off to prove everybody wrong!
Miah Kelly
Age: 26
Location: Savannah, Ga.
Company: KG Wood Floors
Title: Co-owner
Years in the Industry: 4.5
How did you get into the industry?
I started helping my now-husband and ended up just sticking with it and growing a love for flooring.
What’s your experience been like as a young wood floor pro?
With flooring, you tackle the challenge one day at a time, sometimes with brute strength and other times finesse. You really have to be ready to get down and dirty to get the job done, but the end result on a job well done is always worth it!
What keeps you in the industry?
Over the years I’ve grown a love for the industry. Taking something that seems like it’s at the end of its road and turning it into something people can look at and say, “Wow, I didn’t know they could look this good again!” has kept me going. We plan on going until we’re able to retire.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
I say they’re correct, but there’s still a few of us out there who enjoy the work and take the craftsmanship seriously. I’ve met quite a few young ones who have the drive and love to keep going in this industry.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
Wear knee pads and take ear protection seriously. Respect the equipment and take care of it, and it’ll take care of you for years to come. It’s a rough industry, but if you have the drive, the satisfaction this job gives never ends.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
It’s an intimidating and hard job. And a lot of young people want fast money with minimal effort.
Alex Smith
Age: 30
Location: Aliceville, Ala.
Company: Buchanan Hardwoods
Title: Sales representative
Years in the Industry: 2.5
How did you get into the industry?
I spent over seven years working in a hospital in physical therapy and also spent nine months on the COVID floors during the height of the pandemic. That experience pushed me to reflect on my long-term career goals. Around that time, my stepfather, the CEO of Buchanan Hardwood Flooring, was seeking a sales representative. I took a leap of faith and accepted the role. What began as a major career change quickly grew into a passion for the products, the people and the craftsmanship.
What’s your experience been like?
Both challenging and rewarding. This is an industry where experience matters, so I came in eager to learn and willing to listen. Being younger has also allowed me to bring a fresh perspective, especially in communication, education and relationship-building. Once people see your commitment and consistency, age becomes far less important.
What’s your experience been like with managers? Advice for managers?
The best managers I’ve worked with listen, trust you to do your job and invest in your growth. They encourage independence while still offering guidance. My advice is to treat young pros like partners, value their ideas and foster a collaborative environment rather than a top-down one.
What keeps you in the industry?
The relationships, not just with customers, but with other business owners, salespeople and professionals who guide, advise and inspire me. This industry is full of good people, and you can learn so much from them, often beyond flooring itself. I also love the product, beautifully crafted floors that tell a story for families and generations to come. Much like physical therapy, I get to help people in a meaningful way by making sure they get the best flooring possible for their homes and lives. I absolutely plan to stay.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
The idea that younger people lack drive is overstated. When someone seems unmotivated, it’s usually not generational, it often comes from being told success is handed to you rather than earned.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Lack of exposure is a major factor. Many young people aren’t aware of the career opportunities or assume the industry is limited to manual labor. In reality, it is a skilled, technical field with strong earning potential and long-term growth. Increased visibility, education and mentorship would go a long way in attracting the next generation.
Damien Gunn
Age: 38
Location: Denver
Company: HGH Flooring
Title: Owner
Years in the Industry: 18
How did you get into the industry?
My first job as an adult was at Denver Hardwood. I branched off and started working for the floor guys on the weekend, eventually breaking off and going full time with a small three-man company.
What’s your experience been like as a young wood floor pro?
My experience has been a mixture of hard learned mistakes, success and yearning to improve on every floor.
What’s your experience been like with managers? Advice for new managers?
I’ve learned a lot from some true tradesmen. If you’re open-minded and willing to try new techniques, you will find yourself constantly improving your craft and becoming more valuable overall.
What keeps you in the industry?
The satisfaction of completing a project married with the beautiful results keeps me in the industry… and the pay isn’t bad, either!
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
Find a way to become passionate about your results, and the work will find you.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Hard work, plain and simple.
John Booth
Age: 39
Location: Shepherdsville, Kent.
Company: Louisville’s Best Choice Flooring
Title: Owner/operator
Years in the Industry: 19
What’s your experience been like with managers? Advice for new managers?
I’ve only worked under one boss starting out. I learned how to install, sand and refinish floors with just enough knowledge to start my own company. My advice would be: Don’t be afraid to step out and create your own vision.
What keeps you in the industry?
My passion and artistic talent, and I plan to continue creating the most unique floors and designs.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
Kids will work if they are taught responsibility and motivation with opportunities to expand their learning.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
The flooring industry is an art and can be a very successful business.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Lack of knowledge and understanding of trade work and hard labor.
Catalina Sandu
Age: 36
Location: Brentwood, Tenn.
Company: NDM Floors Distributor Tennessee
Title: Store manager
Years in the Industry: 7
How did you get into the industry?
I was just looking for a job and I found out from a friend that NDM Floors was looking to hire a sales associate position. It was something new for me, but I have always liked challenges, so I took their offer. After more than seven years, I ended up being the store manager for our Tennessee location. It was the best decision I made. Almost every day is a challenge, helping our customers and providing the best customer service.
What’s your experience been like as a young wood floor pro?
Pretty challenging. In this industry and for me personally, my colleagues and clients always come first. We are a young team—ages between 22 to 29 years old. But sometimes young is better, because all of the members from my crew try to learn from each other and are willing to help each other grow. Sometimes there are conflicts, but we manage to come to an agreement and sometimes new ideas are born on how we can improve ourselves and what can we do better in order to provide the best customer service for our clients.
As for our customers, I try to provide them our best customer service. There is no good or bad customer—each customer that walks through the door is my best customer. Also, as a manager, I have always done my best to have a good collaboration with all the companies we work with, and of course with all the sales representatives. I am thankful to all of them for being patient with me, and I have gained a lot of knowledge from them.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
The key for success is being a good leader, not a boss. And I have always appreciated that with the owners of NDM Floors. They really make us feel like a family, listening to our problems, doing their best in helping us out and coming up with new ideas on how to improve ourselves.
As a young professional, how do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
They do want to work, you just need to find the right way to motivate them. They just need to be challenged.
Matthew Szyszka
Age: 35
Location: Crystal Lake, Ill.
Company: Floor Master Company
Title: Owner/operator
Years in the Industry: 17
How did you get into the industry?
Back in 2009, I was working a variety of jobs, ranging from making burgers to renting DVDs and even working at a hair salon. One day, a friend of mine who was employed at a hardwood flooring company called to inform me that they were hiring. Our former boss had secured a large contract to manufacture and install 15,000 square feet of engineered flooring. He rented a shop, purchased unfinished engineered flooring, and we were tasked with hand-scraping it, applying a custom pitch-black stain, and coating it with a water-based finish. Then we delivered the prefinished material to the job site to install it. Arthur quickly recognized my attention to detail and offered me a full-time position. The rest is history.
What’s your experience been like as a young wood floor pro?
It’s been both challenging and rewarding. Starting out, I was exposed to every aspect of the trade, from manufacturing and finishing to installation and problem-solving in the field. Being younger in a skilled trade meant I had to work hard to earn trust and prove my attention to detail, reliability and commitment to quality.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
My experience with managers has been best when they lead by example and communicate openly. I’ve really appreciated managers who are knowledgeable, fair and willing to teach, especially early on in my career. Having someone who values quality work and respects their team makes a big difference.
What keeps you in the industry? Do you plan to stay in it?
What keeps me is the opportunity to work on high-end properties, meet new people and consistently deliver custom, high-quality work. I enjoy the challenge of creating something unique for each project. Most importantly, this industry allows me to do what I’m truly passionate about: designing and building custom installations and art floors.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
I understand why some older generations feel that way, and in today’s world, there’s a bit of truth to it. With technology and AI advancing rapidly, many young people are drawn to tech careers rather than hands-on work in trades. That said, for those of us who are passionate about craftsmanship, working with our hands and creating something tangible, the drive and dedication are very much alive.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
Don’t be afraid and be ready to take risks. Don’t listen to people who doubt you or try to bring you down—stay focused on your goals. As my father used to say, “Surround yourself with people who are better than you; that way, you’ll keep improving.” If you stay determined, keep learning and challenge yourself, this industry can be incredibly rewarding.
Matt Parker
Age: 42
Location: Baltimore
Company: Matt’s Professional Flooring
Title: Owner
Years in the Industry: 24
How did you get into the industry?
I learned how to do hardwood floor refinishing and installation with my dad.
What’s your experience been like with managers? Advice for new managers?
My advice is too trust your team and have patience. Act as a team player, not just a manager. Make sure your team knows and understands that they are appreciated.
What keeps you in the industry?
It’s really a passion of mine; there are always new things to learn. I love to meet new people—I’ve come across some unique individuals. When you love what you do, it never feels like work. I do plan to stay in the industry—I’m just getting started.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
It’s not for everyone. It’s hard physical work, but you have to love it. Your body will adjust to it and love it, too.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
Don’t take things too personally. Always do your best and be honest. You’ll have a lot of fun along the journey.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Not having the right contacts, networking and mentors. Not finding a solid team they can rely on that can help them learn quickly—where they can keep moving up as they learn different skillsets so they aren’t just doing one task.
Antonio Salas
Age: 26
Location: Dallas, Texas
Company: Ridgewood Flooring
Title: Owner
Years in the Industry: 10
How did you get into the industry?
My dad has been installing hardwood floors since 1990, and I still remember him taking me to job sites when I was just a kid. As I got older, he brought me to work during my summer breaks, and that’s when I truly fell in love with the craft.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
A real leader doesn’t just stand on the sidelines—they work shoulder-to-shoulder with their team. They take time to understand each person’s background, strengths and story. When a leader connects with their people on that level, the job stops feeling like a checklist and turns into a mission everyone wants to be part of. That’s the kind of leadership that inspires, pushes you to grow and brings out the best in everyone
What keeps you in the industry? Do you plan to stay in it?
The passion for turning people’s dream floors into a reality. But more than that, the relationships we build along the way. As we grow, so do the connections, the trust and the impact we leave in every home we touch.
As a young professional, how do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
Honestly, they’re right. But I see it as both a blessing and a curse. A blessing because if you have real work ethic and a solid foundation, it’s easier to rise, stand out and get ahead. But it’s also a curse, because finding someone with that same drive is getting harder.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
My advice is simple: Build mental strength and resilience. There will be tough days, but keep showing up. Stay consistent, stay hungry and take it one day at a time. Master the basics, be open to learning and never forget that growth comes from discipline and dedication. If you stay focused, this industry can take you further than you ever imagined.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
The lack of accountability, honesty and integrity. Many are afraid of being judged, afraid of failing or simply scared of the hard work it takes to grow in this trade. The real rewards—the skills, the confidence, the pride in your craft—only come from showing up, working hard and pushing past your comfort zone.
Zach Branco
Age: 33
Location: Greenland, N.H.
Company: Northern Floor Co.
Title: Owner
Years in the Industry: 10
How did you get into the industry?
My father and grandfather were both flooring contractors and owned Branco Flooring together. They were mostly involved in sales. When I decided to give flooring a shot, I went to work for a different company and really learned the install/sanding process.
What’s your experience been like with managers? Advice for new managers?
Being able to watch my father and grandfather growing up, I was able to get an outside perspective of how they managed their crew from a business standpoint. Prior to starting my own company, I worked for Scott, the owner, who sent a novice 22-year-old to install/sanding schools for certifications and skill training; Ryan, the mentor, who was another young professional who could work circles around me and challenged me to become better at my craft; and Stacy, the old timer, who corrected all my mistakes but was the kind of coworker who tells new guys to find the board stretcher. As someone who manages people now, I try to keep the healthy balance I had.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
I can understand this perspective, because when I started in this trade, I did not want to work hard physically for entry-level. I think my generation all bought into the “go to college and get a degree/high-paying job” route. I tried it, and it wasn’t for me, but the idea of owning my own business and the freedom that comes along with it was more appealing. I think we’ll see more young people who feel that way.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
My advice is to be patient. I think the appreciation of the type of work we do comes after the countless hours of perfecting the little things (vacuuming, scraping corners, racking out, fetching and organizing tools, edging, cleaning after other trades). When you put that amount of effort into something, you’ll start to take pride in the work it takes to transform someone’s home.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
The lack of introduction to the industry. It’s not as popular as becoming an electrician, plumber or getting into construction in general.
Ricardo Barona
Age: 30
Location: Houston, Texas
Company: Imperial Wood & Epoxy Flooring
Title: Co-owner and project manager
Years in the Industry: 16
How did you get into the industry?
I would help my dad on the weekends up to I was 18, when I left for college. When I came back I started working full time as a technician with my dad.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
Thankfully we’ve been growing steadily to have a crew that I manage. It is quite different from working physically on the job, but having that background really helps out on understanding the crew and being able to schedule projects without burning them out. Definitely taking care of the crew is key in leaving a good job for the customer. Learning how to speak to clients and setting expectations is also a good thing a manager should have.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
I’m not a kid anymore, but when I was a kid, working was the only way that got me what I wanted.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
To learn the basics, get used to the work. Start learning different species of wood and the art form of sanding and finishing.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Many young people don’t have an idea this trade exists. LVP and laminate is what a lot of them think of when wood floors are mentioned.
Grant Lahman
Age: 22
Location: Dayton, Ohio
Company: Dayton Hardwood Floor Co.
Title: Installer/refinisher
Years in the Industry: 6
How did you get into the industry?
Unintentionally: I took woodworking classes during my first two years of high school. Unfortunately, the program was shut down after that. If it weren’t for that class, I’m not sure I would have discovered my passion for woodworking. I eventually got into the industry when a local flooring contractor offered me a summer job.
What’s your experience been like with managers? Advice for new managers?
I’ve worked under some impatient supervisors who flat out told me, “We’ll see how long you last here.” Hearing comments like that made me want to work harder and prove I was willing to learn and earn respect. My advice to managers is simple: Be patient. Taking a few extra minutes to teach instead of yelling negative comments goes a long way.
What keeps you in the industry?
A retired flooring superintendent once told me, “We get paid twice in this industry.” What he meant is that we get to create something beautiful and see the finished product at the end of a job—and we get paid to do it.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
I usually laugh. I think that statement couldn’t be further from the truth. There have always been lazy people in every generation. But the reality is that the world and the economy are changing rapidly. The cost of living has skyrocketed while wages haven’t kept up. My generation doesn’t want to work hard when work doesn’t work for them in return. What Gen Z is looking for is a clear and realistic pathway to success in a career.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
One major barrier is a lack of information about the trades. For a long time, most kids were told that a four-year college degree was the only path to success. While that mindset is starting to change, many young people are just now realizing there are other options. The trades can provide a solid living if you’re willing to put in the work.
Tiago Dias
Age: 29
Location: North Charleston, S.C.
Company: TRD Floor Supplies
Title: Owner
Years in the Industry: 12
How did you get into the industry?
I helped friends with sanding and installation during spring breaks and any other time I had off from school. After finishing school, I took my first full-time job in sales at a flooring store. Later on, my father partnered with someone to open a flooring business, and I spent five years working there. During that time, I gained the hands-on experience and support I needed, which ultimately gave me the confidence and foundation to open my own business.
What’s your experience been like as a young wood floor pro?
Age can sometimes trigger doubt, but overall I feel that the flooring industry welcomes younger people very well when they see that you’re serious about what you’re doing.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
Honestly, I understand that perspective, but at the same time there are many young professionals who don’t fit that category. I have employees under 25 who take their work seriously, and their work ethic is unquestionable.
What advice would you give a young person thinking about getting into the industry?
It’s an amazing industry with many good people who are willing to help and share as much advice as possible. You just have to find the right ones and put in the work to earn your name.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
Unless you grow up around the trade, most people don’t see what modern wood flooring really looks like—high-end installs, refinishing systems, dust containment, design work or business ownership. Without exposure, it’s easy to overlook.
Hunter Nalley
Age: 26
Location: Morganfield, Ky.
Company: Hunter’s Hardwood Floors
Title: Owner/operator
Years in the Industry: 7
How did you get into the industry?
I started working for a guy who later became my best friend. He was an awesome mentor and friend. He was a very skilled craftsman and he took a chance on me. I had prior experience in installs but was eager to learn the sand-and-finishing side. He was a great teacher and took the time showing me what he knew and how to do it.
What’s your experience been like with managers?
My mentor was great. Having someone who is willing to show you the right way to do things and also willing to work alongside you is great. Building relationships in this industry is the greatest thing you can do from what I’ve learned. Having trust built with a manager is the biggest win a company could have. Trust and quality work is a win for anyone.
What keeps you in the industry? Do you plan to stay in it?
This industry is what I love to do. I’m hoping to pass on my knowledge to my son once he is old enough. Being able to have the vision for the final outcome of a project and being the one putting the work in to complete it is my favorite thing to do. One day I would love to be full time in this business. My current schedule is booked until September of 2026 full of installs and refinishes. I am beyond blessed. I owe all of my success to my wife and family. She’s my biggest supporter. Knowing one day that my son could be running this business keeps me focused on the future!
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
Usually the only time I hear people say that is after they tell me, “Wow, in a world of kids who don’t want to work anymore, you’re not scared of any work!” Most people around here know I don’t do just hardwood floors. I work 12-hour swing shifts in a factory, then spend my off days doing floors. My main response is this: It’s up to my generation to break that curse of kids not wanting to work. The work is out there. And it’s plentiful. It just takes drive. And that’s exactly what younger generations need to be taught.
Tommy O’Reilly
Age: 27
Location: Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.
Company: Four Leaf Flooring Co.
Title: Owner
Years in the Industry: 7
How did you get into the industry?
I didn’t choose this industry so much as I grew into it. Working with my hands taught me that floors are not merely surfaces, but the ground on which daily life unfolds. As craftsmanship gave way to synthetic shortcuts, I began to recognize a broader pattern. The way we build reflects the same values shaping our food, our environments and even our attention—an increasing preference for speed, convenience and control over patience, nourishment and care. We now spend most of our lives indoors, yet rarely pause to consider how these spaces shape us in return. That awareness drew me from the field into curating flooring rooted in natural materials and longevity—spaces designed not just to perform, but to support the human body and restore a sense of balance.
What’s your experience been like as a young wood floor pro?
Challenging, but defining. Being young in a traditional trade means earning trust while questioning shortcuts that have become normalized. It’s forced me to be more disciplined, more educated and more intentional about the standards I stand behind.
What keeps you in the industry?
What keeps me here is connection—to people who care, to real materials and to the places they come from. I love wood, trees, and forests and I care about how they’re managed, just as I care about the health of the homes we live in. This trade has carried me coast to coast and across Europe, shaping friendships and mentorships along the way. Wood is honest, alive and grounding. I’m not going anywhere.
How do you respond when older generations say, “Kids don’t want to work anymore”?
When I hear, “Kids don’t want to work anymore,” I hear a deeper failure being named out loud. Human beings will sacrifice their bodies, their time, even their lives for something they believe has meaning. Take meaning away, and what looks like laziness is often refusal. A generation doesn’t disengage because it’s weak—it disengages because it recognizes emptiness. Purpose animates the human spirit. Remove it, and work becomes decay.
What do you think prevents more young people from entering the wood flooring industry?
A lack of visibility, mentorship and patience in the culture at large. There isn’t always a clear path showing how the trade can grow into a long-term, meaningful career. At the same time, society constantly pushes instant gratification—quick wins, fast money, minimal effort—which works against a craft that rewards time, discipline and repetition.
