For the past 16 years, Mike Rowe—prominent cable TV show host and narrator—has been advocating the importance of trade and technical skill training. I remember attending a breakout session where he addressed a room full of flooring retailers concerning the installation crisis. As he walked out on stage, looking around the room, Rowe did what he does best—he made a simple, yet powerful statement: “There are approximately 350 million people who live in the U.S., and all walk on floors—and you have a problem? Why?”
The answer to “why” can become a debatable conversation, depending on
which segment of the industry you’re working in. Building awareness and creating
easily obtained pathways are imperative to the continued success and overall future of the floor covering industry.
The Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) has been singularly focused on building a strong pathway into the industry for new talent because it is crucial for fostering innovation, driving economic growth and addressing workforce shortages. By providing structured training programs, mentorship opportunities and clear career advancement pathways, the flooring industry can attract and retain top talent, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled professionals ready to contribute to their respective fields.
To date, FCEF has awarded 442 scholarships, disbursing more than $410,464 in scholarship funds and partnering with four industry training providers. FCEF is currently active in eight colleges and offers dual enrollment programs for high school students. Expanding the basic floor covering installation program to four additional colleges this year, FCEF’s impact continues to grow. However, continued support is essential to sustain and expand these vital initiatives.
Why is it important to be involved now? A notable shift is in the educational landscape, with more students opting for technical trade education over traditional four-year colleges. This change is driven by rising college tuition costs, a growing demand for skilled workers
in specialized fields and the recognition of the value of practical, hands-on training. As a result, more individuals are exploring alternative pathways to career success that offer better affordability and faster entry into the workforce.
National Skilled Trades Month, celebrated in May, serves as a tribute to the invaluable contributions made by skilled tradespeople across various industries. It is an opportunity to honor the dedication and hard work of individuals who keep our communities running smoothly.
By participating in National Skilled Trades Month and donating to FCEF, individuals and businesses directly contribute to empowering aspiring tradespeople, strengthening the workforce and fostering innovation within the industry. Moreover, supporting FCEF during National Skilled Trades Month raises awareness about the importance of skilled trades and vocational education.
In addition to financial contributions, there are various ways to get involved with FCEF, including: volunteering as a mentor; providing job shadowing opportunities; or promoting awareness about career opportunities in the flooring industry.
Together, let’s support future talent and ensure the continued success of the floor covering industry.
Kaye Whitener is director of operations for the Floor Covering Education Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting recruitment, training and retention of floor covering installers. For more information, email kwhitener@fcef.org.
