The opening general session of the 2013 NWFA Wood Flooring Expo was focused on on the show's theme-Think Big-as the economy and the industry both recover from lean years.
NWFA Chairman Rick Holden opened the session with some highlights of the past year and the direction the NWFA is taking in 2013. Throughout the session videos of member companies that have dared to "Think Big" were aired. Those profiled were Archetypal Imagery, C & R Flooring, Maxwell Hardwood Floors and Derr Flooring Company.
NWFA Certified Professionals Kevin Mullany of Benchmark Wood Floors described the changes being made to the NWFACP program to make it more efficient, more rigorous and more beneficial for customers, for the more than 30 manufacturers who recommend use of NWFACP installers, and for the industry professionals receiving the certifications.
Mullany said the new program requires inspectors to have more hours of experience with wood flooring and has a more streamlined complaint process, along with revised tests, which will be posted shortly after the Expo. The NWFACP is partnering with more manufacturers on dual certifications so that training is more economical for installers.
Mullany also awarded plaques to industry veterans Neil Moss and Don Conner for the service to NWFACP, and he presented Honorary Vanguard degrees to Tom Peotter and Galen Fitzel; read the full article about them here.
Finally, NWFA Chairman Michael Martin took the stage, speaking about collaboration. He expressed pride in the members of NWFA who put aside competition to make the industry better, such as manufacturers who donate products to schools led by competitors because they see the importance of education.
"It is this spirit of collaboration that started the NWFA nearly 30 years ago. We should be very proud of how this industry has set aside competitive issues and realized that if we come together for the purpose of education, that the tide of the entire industry rises," Martin said. Martin spoke briefly about each of the partners NWFA is collaborating with to grow the market for wood flooring and other wood products.
Also during the general session, the members voted in the new NWFA board of directors; read the complete details here.
