CFI 17th ANNUAL CONVENTION
CFI Celebrates 17 Years of Success!
“If it is to be, it is up to ME!” Star-Studded Recognition of All CFI Members!
CFI announces the 17th anniversary celebration in Kansas City, Missouri August 19-21, 2010.
Education! Training! Learning opportunities abound at the CFI Convention. There is something for everyone from carpet, tile, laminate, wood, resilient and business topics. The associate seminars provide an opportunity for everyone to know the latest about new products, tools and technical information.
On Thursday evening at 5:30, the WFCA-sponsored Leadership Conference kicks off the CFI Convention. This is additional opportunity for attendees to become highly motivated to manage their careers in a manner that brings rewards and enjoyment.
Seminars are scheduled to enhance installation techniques, business and presentation skills. The installation workshops feature “hands-on” participation in different flooring surfaces, best business practices, the commercial installation marketplace, finished concrete flooring, laminate workshop, woven workshop, the compatibility of wood with concrete, National Association of the Self Employed seminar, insurance and bonding information and the consequences associated with moisture and alkalinity.
The motivating speakers, networking with industry associates, meeting with friends and the opportunity to be involved in the always-exciting CFI Associate FUN event are just a few of the many things awaiting the attendees.
According to Jim Walker, CEO, “Nowhere is the impact of the accomplishments of the CFI members as visible as it is at the Convention. It is rewarding to be involved in the achievements of the individual members and the enthusiasm they have for being at the top of their careers. It’s impossible to attend this event and not witness how flooring installation could be represented to the consumers if everyone shared this enthusiasm and attitude. The CFI Convention is the place to be for everyone in this industry and especially, for the flooring installers.”
“The Associate Seminars presented in small group sessions provide information that will improve the bottom line, as well as introduce the members to a variety of products, tools and installation supplies. The information, demonstrations, new tools and techniques offer attendees an opportunity to share current information with others unable to attend. This part of our Convention is appreciated because we leave knowing that we are on the cutting edge of everything new and beneficial for our trade,” Bob Gillespie, Past President.
CONVENTION #17 EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS
“The Leadership Conference sponsored by the World Floor Covering Association under the direction of Christopher Davis begins on Thursday evening this year at 5:30,” said Roy Davison, CFI President. “CFI members always look forward to this event as the grand beginning of an educational-packed three days. We go to be motivated and we are never disappointed. Following the WFCA Leadership Conference, the time is filled with skills workshops and seminars that provide us with the knowledge to achieve our goals. The annual Convention Jacket made possible by the CFI Associates is a collector’s item that is visible nationwide throughout the year. During the 2½ days, which races by quickly, we meet new friends, enjoy reminiscing with those we see once a year, learn so much and then it is time to return home to share all of this with those who were unable to attend.”
“Everyone enthusiastically anticipates the Associates’ Sponsored Fun Event knowing it will be an evening to display our competitive spirits and assist the associate we represent in obtaining the CFI Annual Advertising Award,” said Robert Varden, CFI Vice-President. “We have grown from a group that took time to make its impact felt in the industry to an impressive organization that is recognized and associated with worldwide. The CFI logo is seen on many continents today. Following the standards set by the National Wood Flooring Association, the North American Laminate Flooring Association, Ceramic Tile Education Foundation, and working closely with manufacturers, dealers and distributors, the CFI Proven Methods in all flooring surfaces have reached well over 40,000 people.”
“There is nowhere that a flooring installer can go to be involved in the abundance of seminars and workshops to obtain the latest knowledge and update skills that compares with the CFI Convention. The CFI focus is education and while we always have time for fun, the emphasis of the short time we spend together is to become more equipped for the future of our individual business involvement. This year, we have the opportunity to be updated on the latest technology and backing systems for carpet led by a panel of manufacturing experts. This event is a must for anyone involved in the installation of carpet,” Alan Ellis, CFI Secretary.
Bob Wagner, President of L. Fishman, “As an associate member firm, we strongly support CFI’s commitment to installation excellence and through the Pat Fell Chapter Achievement Award; we pay tribute to the memory of an outstanding employee and encourage his dream of education and knowledge through the local chapter. For the 6th year, L. Fishman will donate $1,000.00 to assist CFI Chapters in promoting installation excellence through the L. Fishman Chapter Achievement Award, given in honor of Patrick Fell. It is awarded annually to the chapters that are influential in their communities to improve the quality of flooring installation through education. We are aware of the impact this award has in carrying on the tradition of installation excellence and are pleased to be a part of making a difference.”
Tony Buckhardt, Chairman of the CFI Certification Committee, “The Certification Committee holds its annual meeting to review plans for the coming year. Having grown from carpet training and education to encompass all flooring surfaces, CFI has developed training curriculum that encourages installers to diversify and work more proficiently. In partnership with associate members and trade organizations, CFI programs reach more people every year. We also provide time to take the Master-II written test in preparation for the three-day skill test that is scheduled for November 4-6 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.”
CEO, Jim Walker, “We have always stressed that CFI is a tool. When used properly, everyone benefits. The installers become more proficient in their work and business dealings, possess finer people skills and are sincerely proud of the profession they have chosen. Every dealer should experience the satisfaction of engaging the services of CFI installers. Young installers who are entering the trade should attend the Convention and become mentored by those who are proud of their accomplishments. In difficult economic times, the CFI Convention is a “must!” We invite the entire flooring community to join us in August.”
CFI CONVENTION RETURNS TO KANSAS CITY – the founding home of CFI
The Kansas City Airport Expo Convention Center and attached Holiday Inn Airport Hotel are close to the Kansas City International Airport. The facilities are located within miles of many family fun attractions. Complimentary airport shuttle service is provided and for those who drive parking is free. Reservations can be made by calling (816) 801-8400 for the reduced $89.00 CFI rate.
WFCA MEMBERSHIP is a MUST!
The World Floor Covering Association is the largest sponsor of CFI training and education. Throughout the year, CFI is afforded an abundance of opportunities to provide flooring installation training because of WFCA’s investment in education. While making the travel arrangements, hotel reservations and planning for the vacation time, don’t forget to join the WFCA. Don’t miss the valuable information that helps your business to operate smoothly and profitable. WFCA holds the key to opportunities that are rewards of membership. Joining the WFCA also provides you with a $500.00 scholarship for education, because all CFI training fees are 100% covered by your investment. Join through CFI and receive $500.00 in return; another exciting opportunity for CFI members and guests. Contact the CFI office for assistance at (816) 231.4646 or read more details at www.CFIinstallers.com.