The Women in the Floorcovering Industry (WIFI) board of directors met at The International Surface Event (TISE) to recap 2024 and plan for 2025.
Professional Development & Leadership Growth
WIFI’s mentoring program had more than 120 participants across three cohorts. The program is currently taking applications for a fourth cohort through mid-February. Additionally, the WIFI board participated in the SEAL Leadership Training & Certification program through WFCA and is expanding the partnership between the two organizations due to strong demand. WIFI is providing partial scholarships for 20 women in flooring for the SEAL leadership training in 2025.
Educational Impact & Scholarships
To date, WIFI has awarded $43,499 to 13 women who are pursuing education, certifications, and technical training. This investment helped women advance their careers and gain industry-recognized credentials.
Power Hour & Conferences
WIFI’s virtual Power Hour series drew more than 700 participants. The organization also hosted and participated in 16 in-person events across major industry conventions, including TISE, Coverings, NAFCD, and NeoCon, and held a co-branded conference with Shaw Industries’ WIN Group with more than 400 attendees. WIFI hosted education sessions at conventions with Starnet, Alliance Flooring, Floor Coverings International, CFI – FCICA, and at the Mohawk Edge Summit, ensuring women had access to networking and professional development across the country. In 2025, WIFI looks forward to adding sessions at the NWFA Expo and the Abbey Convention.
Fundraising & Financial Growth
WIFI secured $140,200 in donations, with the top contributions from Mohawk, Shaw, Mannington, Floor Covering Weekly, and the World Floor Covering Association. Additional corporate donors included: Alliance Flooring, Beseda Flooring, Cali, Engineered Floors, Floor Coverings International, Fuse Alliance, IFC, The International Surface Event, Poindexter Flooring, Roesel-Heck, Tarkett, and Universal Fibers.
Marketing & Community Engagement
WIFI’s marketing efforts flourished, with increased blog posts, press releases, and social media presence. The team also worked to strengthen relationships with retail groups, trade associations, and corporate sponsors, enhancing the organization’s long-term impact.
Looking Ahead
With solid financial backing, growing participation, and expanded educational programs, WIFI is poised for an even greater impact in 2025. Visit womeninflooring.org to join.