Flooring installers, retailers and distributors from all over the country gathered at this year’s International Certified Installers (CFI) Convention in Orlando, Florida, to compete in the Southeast Regional Installation competition, participate in education sessions, demo new products and connect with others in the industry. If you attend flooring shows and events, you have most likely noticed that each one has a certain feeling or connection that keeps attendees coming back…or not. I would categorize the vibe of the convention as an “eager willingness”—a willingness to support the next generation of flooring installers by any means necessary. 

During the installation competition, competitors installed either wood flooring or carpet based on a specific set of instructions, and the installations were judged based on how closely each competitor followed these instructions. Some were returning competitors, and some were newcomers. While the installers worked diligently to make the cutoff time, industry greats, event sponsors and family and friends were there to support the competitors.