Sports Construction and INSTALL Ohio Unite

Philadelphia, PA, April 19, 2007--As the nation continues to rapidly adopt synthetic field systems, installers skilled in the art of turf are essential to deliver quality systems, but are few and far between. Ohio-based sport field construction company Sports Construction Group and INSTALL Ohio, the flooring installation program of the Ohio and Vicinity Regional Council of Carpenters (OVRCC), are taking on the problem.

The two groups have launched a training and certification program specific to turf, available to installers through OVRCC’s Joint Apprenticeship Training Centers, which provide training for the floor covering industry.

“There’s been a lack of training in synthetic turf installation in recent years. As a result the industry has suffered,” said Mike Cahill, State Director of Organizing for the OVRCC. “SCG understands that. The company is taking it upon itself to produce quality products using the best trained people,” said Cahill.

Paul Franks, SCG President and CEO, said his organization has been frustrated with a lack of craftsmen versed in the art of synthetic turf installation. “By developing a training program with the OVRCC we know we – and the industry at large – will have access to skilled tradesmen. And as a result, better quality in the final product.”

He added that his company will rely on installers certified through the OVRCC’s INSTALL program, and he anticipates that some will travel with the company as it performs installations at various locations throughout the nation.

The new synthetic turf training program began operating earlier this year through the OVRCC’s four statewide training centers. The curriculum is designed in part by 15-year synthetic turf installation veteran and SCG director of operations Rich Splean. It addresses all aspects of synthetic turf installations, including proper surface preparation, working in the right conditions, safety, proper adhesives and use of them, sewing techniques and much more, according to Cahill.

“This industry is growing incredibly rapidly – we need this level of training to properly serve the market,” said Cahill. He added that OVRCC is proud to have “some of the finest training programs” in North America, covering carpet, sheet goods, wood floorings, you name it. “And now synthetic turf is a major part of it,” he added.