Synergy Convention Honors Flooring Installers and Inspectors

Chattanooga, TN, November 12, 2026—Flooring installers, inspectors and companies were recognized at the annual Synergy Awards Luncheon, held on the final day of the 2026 Synergy Convention & Expo at the Chattanooga Marriott Downtown. 

Certified Flooring Installers (CFI), the Flooring Contractors Association (FCICA) and Flooring Consultants and Inspectors Training Services (FCITS) hosted the three-day event.

CFI presented its Chris Davis Award to Phillip Gladden and Bruce Gentry and inducted Michael Hetts into the CFI Hall of Fame. Ardex Americas and Synergy Flooring received the CIM Champion Awards.

Carlos Salamanca received the Next Generation Award, Jeanne Sadler received the FCITS Tim Smith Award, PJ Arthur received the NFIC Founders Award and Jesus Garcia received the Churchill Kick-Ass Installer Award.

FCITS also recognized inspectors for years of service:

• 10 years: Jim Burns
• 11 years: David Bradshaw, Stefan Falk, Dennis Matranga and Josh Meyer
• 12 years: John Fleischer
• 14 years: Justin Faulknor
• 15 years: Jeanne Sadler
• 18 years: Daniel Hatchnett
• 26 years: LeVante Carrington
• 32 years: Steve Tincher
• 37 years: Jim Coleman

Floor Focus and CFI also presented the inaugural Jim Walker Flooring Installer Award to Roy Allen Lewis, whose selection as grand-prize winner was announced in September. Lewis, a certified flooring installer based in Salem, Alabama, was selected from five finalists drawn from approximately 50 nominations. He is a three-time winner of TISE’s National Installer of the Year competition and a Floor Covering Education Foundation-certified instructor. The award recognizes the craftsmanship, professionalism and commitment to the trade that Walker championed.

You can listen to our interview with Lewis below.