Spoiler alert: This article will not be reflective of my own personal thoughts, ideas or experiences. In recognition of May being “National Skilled Trades month,” I thought it would be more appropriate to provide a few quotes directly from some of our industry’s finest installers. These are the individuals who dedicate their time and energy to help make our industry better and promote quality training and education.
So, without further ado…
“I learned how to install in 1983 with the purpose to know firsthand the process and challenges in the field as well as to gain credibility when leading installers. The flooring industry is where great talent comes together to build beauty out of a blank canvas.”
—Kathy Case, Quantify
“What I love most about working with wood floors is that I am blessed to be able to highlight and show off the natural beauty of real wood in a way that allows future generations to appreciate them.”
—Brett Miller, VP technical standards, NWFA
“What was supposed to be a temporary job turned into a career that has allowed me to become a business owner and provide for my family and pass the torch to my son.”
—Jon Namba, Namba Services, NWFA instructor
“Installing ceramic tile and stone is participating in the creation of a geometrically complex product with permanence. Few may see or understand the magnitude of the many little obstacles faced, but many appreciate the details of a finely crafted installation.”
—Brad Denny, executive director, CTEF
“I chose to leave a career in law enforcement and continue work in floor covering because the goals that I have in life align more with running my own business than working for somebody else. I am at a point in my career now that I can be picky on the jobs I wish to take on. I have the ability to have way more free time to live life and not to be stuck behind the desk working for the man.”
—John Steier, owner, Steier Flooring
“Floor installation was a family trade; my husband was a second-generation hard surface installer. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands. There are so many things I love about my career, the most important is I’m beyond grateful for the lifestyle it has provided for my family.”
—Jen Zurn, project manager, CFI
“What started out as simply renovating a new house for my family turned into a career doing something I love. The flooring industry has brought me all over the country to meet all sorts of amazing people, given me the chance to work on a few TV shows and be featured in and write a few articles for trade publications. Moreover, it allowed me the privilege to help others in ways I didn’t think possible. I’m so thankful to all my flooring friends and family for the life they’ve helped me achieve.”
—Ken Ballin, owner,Skyro Floors
“I chose flooring, tile specifically, due to the earning potential it offers. I stayed and loved opening my tile business because I’m able to be an independent, single woman as well as full flourishing mother.”
—Megan Renk, owner, Mosaix Tile Installation
