Forney, Texas—The International Certified Flooring Installers Association (CFI) resumed its hands-on training after being sidelined since March due to the coronavirus pandemic. Held at the CFI training center here, the one-week basic hardwood, laminate and LVT course took place Oct. 26-30, 2020.
Conducted by CFI trainers Dave Garden (Miss.) and Efren Lamas Jr (Calif.), the sold-out training event supplied technical information and hands-on practice for attendees. The four-day course drew installers from across the country looking to start their installation career or to improve their craftsmanship.
According to the group, it was met by enthusiasm from the students. “We are thrilled to offer this on-site training again and have this kind of enthusiastic response,” said Robert Varden, CFI executive director. “Hands-on learning simply can’t be substituted. These installers leave with a different outlook. They not only receive the most comprehensive training available, but a desire to be the best in their field.”
When it became possible to open on-site training once again, CFI said it focused on assuring a safe learning environment based on the COVID-19 guidelines established by the Texas Department of Health Services (TDHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This includes training with mandatory social distancing, masks and daily sanitizing.
“We would especially like to thank our supportive partners that help make CFI training events possible including: Personna, Traxx, Taylor Adhesive, Uzin, Schonox, Mohawk, Tarkett, Congoleum, Pak-Lite, Gundlach and Tools4Floors,” said Varden. “This type of training is crucial to our success and the health of the industry.”