Welcome to Hardwood Floors magazine’s “Women in the Industry” edition. This is the fourth year in a row that the February/March issue has been dedicated to celebrating women in the wood flooring industry. This magazine highlights and shares the stories of some of our industry’s many amazing women. Click here to read about how their careers began, what they enjoy about working in wood flooring, and how they contribute to improving the trade and their communities.
In this issue, you also will read about the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) Women’s Industry Network (WIN). WIN was established to unite women throughout the wood flooring supply chain, while developing programs and resources to further opportunities for women in the industry.
The first WIN event was held during last year’s NWFA Wood Flooring Expo. It was an inspiring occasion, where many women talked about their career paths, experiences, and how to get more women to join the industry. I couldn’t help but notice that many of the attendees shared they found their way into the industry through a generational family business, husband, or partner. There are many doors that lead into our industry for women. Once they open that door, the NWFA can play a part in furthering their careers.
I value the relationships I have made with people in all segments of the industry and the better understanding of the industry as a whole in which I work. I have been fortunate to have participated in NWFA training, committees, Expos, and the board of directors throughout my career.
Each of those experiences through NWFA has helped me be a better leader in my company.
At first glance, it can be easy to see the NWFA as strictly an installation or sand-and-finish training organization, but it offers a lot more than that to a diverse group of individuals in companies ranging from contractors to manufacturers to designers. If you are looking for a place to start stepping up your industry involvement, check out the NWFA University and the online education opportunities that are available when it is convenient for you.
Women’s Industry Network Breakfast
Thursday, May 4, 2023
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
NWFA Expo
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Additionally, join us May 2-4 in Milwaukee for the 2023 NWFA Wood Flooring Expo to meet colleagues and soon-to-be lifelong friends from around the world. Surrounding yourself with professionals who believe in the power of education and networking will help you to elevate your own experience.
If anyone ever opened a door of opportunity for you, be sure to hold that door open for others to walk through. Whether it is an entrance into the world of wood flooring, or helping someone move their career to the next level, we all can return the favor. And to any women who are new to the wood flooring industry, my advice is to enjoy this wonderful industry, which is filled with great, passionate people. I hope to meet you at the WIN breakfast in Milwaukee.