Experience the NWFA Leadership Development Summit at the exceptional Live! by Loews – Ballpark Village, a premier venue located in the heart of St. Louis. This state-of-the-art location offers a vibrant and dynamic setting, perfect for networking, learning, and connecting with industry peers. With its modern amenities, convenient access to local attractions, and stunning views of the city, Live! by Loews ensures an unforgettable experience for all attendees. Join us at this fantastic venue to enhance your professional journey in an inspiring and lively atmosphere.
Event Information
October 10-12, 2024
Live! by Loews – Ballpark Village
799 Clark Avenue
St. Louis, 63102
Leadership Development Summit
Event Lineup
Opening Reception
Thursday, October 10, 2024 | 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Join us for an exclusive Joint Hospitality Reception on Thursday evening, bringing together the NWFA Board of Directors, the NWFA Certified Professionals Board of Directors, the NWFA Education & Research Foundation Board of Directors, the Emerging Leaders Council, and attendees of the Manufacturer’s Assembly and Real Answers Small Business Workshop. This event is a prime opportunity to connect with industry decision-makers, share insights, and build lasting professional relationships.
Wood Flooring Manufacturers Assembly
Friday, October 11, 2024 | 7:30 am – 1:30 pm
This industry forum, geared towards solid and engineered wood flooring manufacturers, will feature timely presentations by: Robert Dietz, Chief Economist for the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB). Santo Torcivia, President of Market Insights and publisher of the US & Canadian FLOOReport. Dana Cole, Executive Director of the Hardwood Federation. There will also be an interactive panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities in the wood flooring industry with a special focus on leadership. Panelists include: Brian Carson, President & CEO of AHF. Adam McCombs, CEO of Somerset. Renee Tester, Marketing Director of Kährs. Chris Sy, President of Carlisle. John Hammel, Senior Director Hardwood & Laminate of Mannington.
Real Answers Small Business Workshop
Friday, October 11, 2024 | 7:30 am – 4:30 pm
Designed for NWFA contractors and retailers, this workshop will feature networking opportunities with industry leaders and training sessions developed by NWFA and the Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA will lead sessions on finance, marketing, and operations. In addition, Doug Howard of Growth Team Strategies will emcee a panel of successful contractors, including Chris Zizza of C&R Flooring, Steve Brattin of SVB Floors, Kevin Mullany of Benchmark Wood Floors, and Sprigg Lynn of Universal Floors, who will share best practices to help shape the future of your company and the industry.
Open House
Friday, October 11, 2024 | 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
The week will culminate with an Open House for all NWFA members, providing an exclusive opportunity to tour our brand-new headquarters. This event is designed to offer an in-depth look at our state-of-the-art facilities, which will serve as the central hub for NWFA’s technical training, industry events, and member activities.
Golf Tournament
Saturday, October 12, 2024 | 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Join us for the first annual NWFA Education & Research Foundation Golf Tournament, right next to our new headquarters. Registration for a foursome is $600, and sponsorship opportunities are available. This tournament kicks off the first-ever NERF campaign to raise funds for student attendance at our quarterly Introduction to Wood Flooring event.
Don’t miss this chance to engage more deeply with the NWFA community, build lasting relationships, and advance your career. We look forward to welcoming you to our new headquarters and seeing you at NWFA Leadership Development Summit!