Do you love what you do? For a lot of us in the wood flooring industry, it is not just a job. We are passionate about creating a work of art that serves as the foundation on which people live their lives and make memories in their homes.
Angi’s recent Skilled Trades in America Report echoes that by stating 90 percent of tradespeople are satisfied with their careers. That is an extraordinary number. Professionals in the report cited finding meaning and value in their work, the overall compensation, and flexible work hours as some of the top reasons.
Meanwhile, the labor shortage continues for wood flooring companies. Hardwood Floors magazine’s 2025 NWFA Industry Outlook survey showed that 57 percent of members still struggle to fill critical positions. Nearly 80 percent of respondents said the challenge was about the same in 2024 as it was in 2023.
The same Skilled Trades in America Report found 70 percent of tradespeople view the labor shortage as problematic. And workers in the age group of 25 to 44 were more likely to say younger people are not joining the trades due to stigmas surrounding trade roles. They cited increasing involvement in high school trade prep programs and investing more in trade schools could help expose more young people to these career paths.
There are so many roads you can take in the wood flooring industry. Whether it is creating a custom inlay, grading lumber, marketing products, or creating tools to make the job easier, there truly is something for everyone. This is evident as you read through the profiles of those featured in Hardwood Floors magazine’s 40 Under 40 list.
While many of these young industry leaders were born into the industry, others fell into it and found the career of their dreams. Once you’re in, the possibilities are endless. My work with wood flooring has taken me places I never expected to be, provided a wonderful life for my family, and allowed me to build a generational business.
Whether you have been in the wood life for five or 50 years, we all should be sharing how much we love it and bringing others along for the ride. Some ways we can do this include participating in career fairs and visiting local high schools and trade schools. Additionally, NWFA has an approved Wood Flooring Specialist apprenticeship with the Department of Labor. This helps NWFA members attract and retain a qualified and skilled workforce, and also will provide a clear career path for those new to the trade. Opportunities exist for employer funding, while apprentices will be able to earn and learn on the job.
It’s a reminder that the best way to turn a job into a career is through education. The NWFA offers more than 350 online courses in the NWFA University and hands-on training events for all skill levels. Contact the NWFA today at 800.422.4556 or visit nwfa.org for details.
