Dallas—Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI) has partnered with the South African Flooring Industry Training Association (FiTA) to bring ongoing floor covering installation training classes and certification to professionals throughout the country and beyond.
Nearly 10 years ago, CFI began working with Belgotex Floorcoverings, a carpet manufacturer based in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa to help establish a formal training program and institute qualification guidelines for professional installers.
“At the time we entered this market there were no set standards and no rules governing flooring installation in the country,” said Robert Varden, vice president of CFI. “The lack of qualified installers in the flooring industry is a global issue. In 2013, The South African Flooring Industry Training Association was formed to address the installation crisis facing the flooring industry. Great strides have been made working with both trade and government officials to clearly define necessary schooling and hands on training requirements for installation professionals that will be overseen by the government and will be required to practice the trade.”
CFI, together with FiTA South Africa, will continue to facilitate installation training and accreditation through apprenticeship programs for entry-level flooring installers who undergo comprehensive hands-on and classroom training. ‘Prior Learning’ accreditation will be made available for installers who are already working and have experience.
To date, over 150 graduates have completed the 12-month training program and apprenticeship and now hold a National Certificate Installation of Floor Coverings. Through an additional regional partner, Belgotex Floorcoverings, CFI and FiTA have entered an arrangement with local youth endowment organizations to bring installation training to school children, grades 6-10. Upon completion, these students will have a floor laying skill, which will enable them to find jobs as entry-level flooring installers.
For more information visit the CFI website or call 816-231-4646.