Chair’s Cut: All the Right Tools for Success

In the December/January Hardwood Floors magazine, we recognize the latest 40 Under 40 class. From those who were born into the wood flooring industry and are carrying on a family tradition, to those who found their way into it because of their love of working with their hands, you will find a wide variety of individuals represented in this year’s list. All who are recognized have a well-rounded impact on the industry and their communities. Their success is to be celebrated and should inspire all of us. Read their stories here.

This issue of the magazine also has a focus on tools. In the “At the Site” section, you will learn about some of the newest techniques with data loggers, nailers, and floor straps. The product focus section features the latest in tools, such as moisture meters, fasteners, and other supplies. Here, though, I would like to tell you about the tools NWFA has for anyone in the wood flooring industry to build a successful career – no matter what stage you are at.

One of the biggest ways to invest in yourself or your team is through education, a central part of the NWFA’s mission. From Basic Installation to Advanced classes, NWFA hosts around 50 hands-on classes annually throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Another way to enhance professional credibility, offer customers peace of mind, and generate new business is by becoming an NWFA Certified Professional. Available certifications include Certified Sales Advisor (CSA), Certified Installer (CI), Certified Sand & Finisher (CSF), and Certified Wood Flooring Inspector (CWFI).

Can’t break away for an in-person school? Hop online when it’s convenient for you and take one of the more than 250 courses NWFA University offers. The NWFAU is comprised of individual learning courses lasting 15 to 20 minutes, with an online testing component. Additionally, NWFA’s LiveEdge platform is home to free, easy-to-access videos to help you gain knowledge on the go. This professional development portal includes Tech Tuesdays, Webinar Wednesdays, and Product Theater Thursdays.

The NWFA also serves content in various other methods to help your career. You are reading one of them right now. Hardwood Floors magazine is the best way to stay updated on industry news, tricks of the trade, business best practices, and trends. The NWFA’s comprehensive guidelines and publications offer industry-accepted standards and detailed information to help guide you through situations you might encounter on the job. And the “Real Wood. Real Life.” marketing toolkit provides all the materials you need to share with customers about why they should choose real wood flooring and how to maintain it properly.

Finally, I am certain every person on this year’s 40 Under 40 list has risen to where they are today with the help of a mentor somewhere along the way. If you do not have a mentor, I highly recommend finding one. If you have years of industry knowledge to share, I invite you to connect with someone eager to learn. The NWFA provides numerous tools to network and build stronger relationships with colleagues and friends. Attending the NWFA Expo or becoming involved with the NWFA’s committees or social networks are great ways to tap into these opportunities.

These are only a few of the robust tools the NWFA has to offer. If you are not an NWFA member, take that first step and join today. If you are an NWFA member and are not taking advantage of all the organization offers, visit nwfa.org or call 800.422.4556 to learn more about the available tools to help you reach your career goals.

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