Flooring Futures Initiative – Investing in the Future of Wood Flooring Professionals
The wood flooring industry faces a critical challenge: the average age of a flooring installer in the U.S. is 56 years old. With many nearing retirement, we must act now to train and inspire the next generation. The National Wood Flooring Association Education & Research Foundation (NERF) proudly introduces the Flooring Futures Initiative, a $1.5 million, three-year campaign to attract, educate, and empower aspiring wood flooring professionals.
Our Mission
The Flooring Futures Initiative is designed to remove barriers that prevent individuals from pursuing a rewarding career in wood flooring. Beyond covering training costs, we address tangible challenges like travel, lodging, meals, and lost wages. By providing comprehensive support, we’re building a robust talent pipeline to meet industry demands for years to come.
Program Highlights
The Flooring Futures Initiative focuses on three key areas to support aspiring professionals:
- Basic Level Training: Full scholarships for 40 newcomers each year to attend a week-long program combining hands-on wood flooring training with business acumen.
- Next Level Training: Full scholarships for 40 industry professionals annually to advance their skills through a week of specialized hands-on training and business education.
- Multilingual Translation: Expanded access to in-person and online education through multilingual resources, ensuring inclusivity for diverse learners.
Why It Matters
- Industry Demand: Over 120,000 flooring jobs exist in the U.S., with a projected 5% growth rate.
- Untapped Potential: Each year, 10,000 veterans transition out of the military, many seeking careers in construction.
- Future-Proofing: By investing in training, we ensure the industry thrives for generations.
Benefits of Sponsorship
Supporting the Flooring Futures Initiative elevates your company and strengthens the industry:
- Future-Proof the Industry: Equip future generations with the skills to meet growing demand.
- Mission-Driven Impact: Showcase your commitment to industry advancement and social responsibility.
- Build a Talent Pipeline: Create a steady flow of skilled professionals for your workforce.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Join us in shaping the future of wood flooring. Choose from a range of sponsorship levels:
- Platinum: $1M
- Gold: $500K
- Silver: $250K
- Bronze: $100K
- Trade: $50K
- Program: $25K
- Training: $10K
- Student: $5K
Three-Year Commitment Benefits:
- Three-year sponsorship recognition
- Logo on prominent signage at NWFA Headquarters and Expo
- Branded swag bags or starter toolkits for students
- Branding on toolkits to attract young talent in communities and schools
All Commitment Benefits:
- Recognition on NWFA website, social media, and marketing materials
- Quarterly updates on student progress and program milestones
- Annual reports detailing impact, student evaluations, and instructor feedback
- Feature in Hardwood Floors Magazine
Act Now
The time to invest in our industry’s future is now. Your support will empower the next generation of wood flooring professionals and ensure our industry thrives for decades to come.
Make a Donation Today
Click here to make a donation to Flooring Futures today. To learn more, Contact Stephanie Owen and together, let’s build a stronger, more vibrant wood flooring industry.