The International Surface Event (TISE): SURFACES | StonExpo | TileExpo is dedicated to serving the industries' needs. One major need everyone is very aware of is the shortage of labor in the industry. For the past three years, TISE has been working with industry associations, as well as key players from industry manufacturers, to try to bring awareness, events, and solutions to assist with this key issue.
In order to raise awareness of the installation career, The International Surface Event, in conjunction with CFI, have produced several types of events and competitions. Some of the events are highlighting the great work being produced by current installers in the industry, while other events are bringing awareness to students who are the future flooring professionals.
The International Surface Event participated in and/or hosted two installation crisis summits in 2016 and 2017 to hear from each segment of the industry, how this issue is affecting their businesses, and brainstorm solutions to solving the issue.
Installation Crisis Summit | Dallas TX | July 2016
Installation Crisis Summit | CFI Event, Orlando, FL | August 2017
The Floor Covering Leadership Council (FCLC) commissioned a comprehensive, independent, multi-phase study to fully understand and quantify the business and financial impact the shortage of qualified installation labor is having on the floor covering industry. This presentation will present the results of that study, along with actions being taken to address the problem.
The research study results, as well as some action plans, were presented in a session at TISE 2019. Watch for future updates.
The Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) exists to lead a network of industry and educational partners to support the recruitment of new talent, scholarship their trade education, and place these new artisans into floor covering industry careers.
Below are some great interviews and news coverage discussing all the different perspectives and thoughts towards solutions for the installation crisis. Our industry is talking, being creative, and is motivated to find answers.
>> Talk Floor Interview: Mohawk's Tom Lape Solutions to the Installation Situation | April 2019