CFI-WFCA Hold Workshop for Inspectors & Sales Reps

Kansas City, MO, May 16, 2007--Installation knowledge is a hot topic for those involved in the sales, claims, contracting and inspection fields. May 9-10, 36 attendees from 8 states and Canada gathered at the Ryman Hall in Dalton, GA for the annual installation workshop.

Jim Walker, CEO of the International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association explained the various types of installation techniques in detail. Assisted by Ed Braile, CFI Master-II and Director of Technical Services and Fred Chastain, CFI Master-II, Jim demonstrated how to identify if the carpet installation is correctly performed.

He also shared ideas for addressing the customer’s concerns and methods to resolve issues that will achieve customer satisfaction. “We never use the word, “problem;” customers only have “concerns,” Jim said as he illustrated ways to communicate with the customer. The stretch-in, direct-glue, double-glue and attached backing methods of installation were discussed.

CFI and the World Floor Covering Association co-sponsored another in the year-long partnership of delivering educational events for all sectors of the industry. Jim stressed the advantage of becoming a member of the WFCA to receive the many business benefits as well as available scholarship funds that pay 100% of the CFI-WFCA course fees.

Ed Foster, Mohawk Technical Services, “I recommend this course to others because of the installation knowledge that Jim shares.” Peter Eckert, Sani-Tech Services of British Columbia, Canada, “This is one of the best courses I have ever attended. Being active in the floor covering association of Victoria, I am suggesting we become more involved with CFI.” Bo Pendley, Installation Manager of Southeastern Commercial Flooring located in Woodstock, GA., “Jim addresses the difficulties faced by the conscientious flooring professionals. I believe as he does that working together, all sectors of this industry should become more involved with quality installation.”

Steven Johnson, IICRC Inspector from North Carolina, “It was great to learn more about installation techniques as related to providing a better inspection for our clients.” Bobby Reed of Beaulieu Technical Services, “A great program that shows the value our customers receive from quality installation.” Tony Lavicka of FCA in Sherwood, IL, “Our firm stresses installation training. Information that I received will benefit our programs.”

“I really appreciate the experience and advice Jim brings to the course with extremely valuable topics,” said Chris Hunt of Home Valu Interiors of Minnesota. Levi Nix of Soho Carpet and Rugs, “More cooperation between all industry parties will benefit everyone. I recommend this because of the valuable installation information that Jim shares.” Jared Warnack of C. W. Industries, “Great class for everyone to attend.” Jerry Timmons of Idaho who scored the highest on the written test, “The course is well presented and provides us with information that is not available in other inspection workshops.”

Successful completion of the written test earns the attendees the CFI Installation Inspector designation. Their names are included on the CFI Website, www.CFIinstallers.com and in the annual directory.

The course is taught at several locations annually. It is scheduled in Kansas City June 4-5 at the Fairfield Inn by the Airport. Later in the year, the CFI Chapter in Maryland will host the course. For information or to schedule an event, contact the CFI office at (816) 231.4646.

The CFI-WFCA Estimating Course is scheduled in Kansas City on June 25-26. For information concerning additional educational events, including the 14th CFI Convention held August 23-25 in Kansas City, MO, visit the CFI website. Events are open to the industry.

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