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Hoffmeyer attended the NWFA's Intermediate Installation, Sand and Finish school in Las Vegas on Sept. 26-28. There she completed the hands-on portion of certification, and afterwards she completed a written test. Out of 550 that have completed the Certified Installer program since NWFACP first offered it in 1999, Hoffmeyer is the first woman in the group.
"Because I am a female installer, more often than not, people will do a double-take when they notice me," Hoffmeyer said. "After 16 years on the job, I am still thrilled to be in the trade and am really honored to be the first woman NWFA Certified Installer."
Asked why she enjoys the wood flooring industry, Hoffmeyer responded, "I enjoy working with hardwoods because the industry is always evolving. No two jobs are ever the same, and the opportunity to create something uniquely beautiful in a customer's home is very rewarding."
The NWFA launched NWFA Certified Professionals Inc., a standalone corporation, in 2004 to carry forward its certification program. In addition to the installer designation, NWFACP also offers certifications for sand and finish, commercial inspection, residential inspection, and sales counseling. NWFACP says the certifications are a "means of differentiating yourself from the crowd. Certification is a way of validating your industry knowledge and expertise, a way of showing your customers that you're truly a recognized expert in your field, and that they can trust you to get the job done right."
To be eligible for the installation or sand and finish certifications, a person must have at least two years of working experience. After attaining the certification, a person must garner at least three continuing education units every year and pay a fee. Benefits of certification include use of NWFACP logos in promotional materials and a listing on the NWFA's website, which attracts more than 70,000 visitors per month, as well as other perks.
For more information about the certification program, contact NWFACP's Sharon Keller-Schaller at (866) 418-5408 or [email protected].
