People making a difference in the flooring industry are not all top-level executives. Some hold more modest positions but are as valuable to the success of the enterprise as any high-ranking leader.
What they share in common is being able to improve a situation or provide solutions. They may have taken different routes to get there, but in the end their efforts benefited their company, association or the flooring industry at large.
FCNews’ annual “People Making a Difference” special section is a tribute to those who go about their daily business lives striving to make a positive impact.
Kaye Whitener:
A potent force behind the future of flooring’s labor pool
By David Chambers
As executive director of the Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF), Kaye Whitener has emerged as one of the most impactful leaders addressing the flooring industry’s most urgent challenge: workforce development.
Kaye’s leadership is defined by her ability to translate industry consensus into measurable outcomes. Under her direction, FCEF has strengthened and expanded industry recognized installation training programs by building scalable partnerships with colleges, workforce agencies, manufacturers, retailers and labor organizations nationwide. These efforts are not theoretical—they result in real people entering the trade with the skills, credentials and support necessary to build lasting careers.
What sets Kaye apart is her disciplined, system-level approach. She understands that solving the workforce challenge requires more than isolated training programs; it requires alignment, credibility and sustained collaboration. By positioning FCEF as a neutral, national platform, she has helped unite diverse stakeholders around a shared goal: strengthening the installer pipeline while elevating professionalism across the industry.
Kaye is also a relentless advocate for outcomes. Placement, retention and long-term career viability are central to how FCEF measures success, ensuring that efforts remain focused on real world impact rather than activity alone.
At a time when the flooring industry’s future growth depends on its ability to attract and develop skilled talent, Kaye Whitener’s leadership at FCEF is making a tangible difference.
David Chambers is the current chair of the FCEF
Dana Cole:
Hardwood’s ardent advocate in Washington, D.C.
By Stephanie Owen
Dana Cole, executive director of the Hardwood Federation, is a driving force behind the hardwood industry’s voice in Washington, D.C., and a deserving honoree among FCNews’ 2026 People Making a Difference.
Dana’s leadership ensures the hardwood sector is not only represented but also understood at the highest levels of government. She advocates on behalf of manufacturers, distributors and contractors during important conversations involving tariffs, trade policy, environmental regulation and workforce development. Her ability to communicate the realities of the industry has helped position the Hardwood Federation as a trusted resource on Capitol Hill.
For the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) and its members, Dana’s work has been impactful and timely. During periods of economic uncertainty and regulatory change, she has helped ensure the hardwood industry’s perspective is included in decisions that directly affect business operations and long-term growth. Through initiatives like the annual Hardwood Federation Fly-In, she creates opportunities for members to meet directly with policymakers and understand the importance of advocacy and engagement firsthand.
On a personal note, it is especially meaningful to have another strong female leader and fellow redhead in this industry to partner with. Dana leads with authenticity and a genuine commitment to the hardwood community. Her work continues to make a lasting impact on the industry and the people it supports.
Stephanie Owen is president and CEO of the National Wood Flooring Association
Brandon Shidlowski:
Constantly seeking to improve
By Reid Waxman
Brandon Shidlowski didn’t join Roomvo to maintain momentum. He joined to build it from the ground up. As the first person on the dealer team nearly six years ago, he helped shape what has become a core pillar of the business and now serves as vice president of revenue, where his influence spans far beyond any single team.
What makes Brandon exceptional is his ability to connect strategy with execution without ever losing sight of the people on the other side of it. He leads with a steady intensity and a deep sense of responsibility to customers and teammates alike.
Brandon is principled in how he works, guided by Kaizen and a “Measure twice, cut once” mindset. Kaizen shows up in his constant drive to refine and improve, never satisfied with “good enough” if something can be better. And while he moves with urgency, he is deliberate in his approach, taking the time to think through decisions so execution lands right the first time.
At the center of everything he does are “wow moments.” Brandon is obsessed with ensuring customers feel supported in ways they don’t expect, and that they in turn create those same moments for their own clients. It’s a philosophy that has shaped how teams think, build and serve.
Today, Brandon is widely respected across the industry. This nomination reflects what many already know—his impact is both significant and lasting.
Reid Waxman is director of dealer operations at Roomvo by Leap Tools
Christine Zampaglione:
Driving momentum when it matters most
By Jamann Stepp
Christine has played an instrumental role in helping shape and elevate the Stanton brand during a transformative period for our organization. As vice president of marketing, she has brought a clear strategic vision, creativity and an unwavering commitment to innovation that has strengthened Stanton’s position within the flooring industry.
From leading key rebranding initiatives to enhancing our product storytelling, digital presence and overall customer experience, Christine has helped modernize how Stanton connects with both consumers and retail partners. Her ability to align marketing strategy with business objectives has driven greater brand awareness, stronger market engagement and meaningful growth across multiple product categories.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Christine is a collaborative and inspiring leader who consistently brings energy, passion and accountability to the organization. She has made a lasting impact not only on Stanton, but also within the flooring industry through her forward-thinking approach and dedication to excellence.
Christine’s recognition as a “Person Making a Difference” is both well-earned and reflective of the tremendous value she brings to our company and industry every day.
Jamann Stepp is the senior vice president of hard surface at Stanton
Jean-Philippe Dumas & Sébastien Mercier:
Inspiring change while honoring tradition
By Wade Bondrowski
Sébastien and Jean-Philippe embody both continuity and change within Mercier Wood Flooring. I’ve been working with the company for over 20 years, and what I appreciate about these two guys is that they’re fearless. Ever since they purchased the business from their parents, they’ve shown openness to new segments and a willingness to invest in machinery that can take us to new heights. They know things evolve and want to keep up and even innovate.
Both have a background in accounting, they learn quickly and they don’t hesitate to surround themselves with a strong team that brings complementary expertise.
On a more personal note, they’ve preserved the human side and these same family values that inspire people to stay with the company for the long term. Sébastien and Jean-Philippe are very passionate about what they do, dedicated to their customers and they have a bright future, that is excellent news for Mercier Wood Flooring and all their employees!
Wade Bondrowski is director of sales, USA, Mercier Wood Flooring
Tressa Samdal:
Elevating standards and inspiring innovation
By Leonardo Pesce
Tressa brings a revitalizing spirit to Florida Tile, infusing fresh ideas, strong professionalism and energy that drives meaningful change. Since joining our leadership team, she has made a significant impact through her vision, creativity and strategic approach to marketing and product development.
She strengthens and elevates our brand positioning, introduces new ways of thinking and fosters greater alignment between product innovation and market opportunities. Tressa excels in analyzing market trends and consumer preferences, enabling us to stay ahead of the competition.
Not only does Tressa lead our marketing and product strategy, but she also actively shapes the future direction of the company. Her efforts reinforce that direction, drive momentum and solidify our position in the industry.
Most importantly, Tressa’s enthusiasm and commitment inspire those around her, while her professionalism and leadership continue to raise our standards across the organization.
Leonardo Pesce is CEO of Panariagroup USA/Florida Tile
Doug Jackson:
Leading with authenticity
By Jay Flynn
As CEO of Cali, Doug Jackson is a people-first leader who recognizes that our brand’s strength comes from the talent, dedication and collaboration of the people behind the product. He doesn’t just manage from the top—he connects with each segment of our business, from product development and marketing to sales and operations. That engagement shows up in everything we deliver to our customers.
Doug’s career in flooring spans decades, and he’s competed and excelled at every level. He has run diverse teams of varying sizes, and through it all, he’s stayed focused on the fundamentals: quality products, strong partnerships and authenticity.
Those fundamentals bolster another of Doug’s strengths—his ability to make thoughtful calls quickly. In an industry where speed matters, Doug moves with clarity and confidence. That combination of solid fundamentals and decisiveness allows Cali to differentiate ourselves and stay ahead in a competitive market. It’s also what enables our team to execute with confidence.
Beyond strategy and operations, Doug is passionate about protecting the unique brand and culture that defines Cali. He’s built a company where people are proud to work, where innovation matters and where we stand behind what we sell. That’s leadership, and that’s Doug Jackson.
Jay Flynn is senior vice president, sales, Cali
Jimmy Tuley:
Leadership when it counts the most
By Tom Pendley
Since joining Mannington in 2012 as director of operations for the Salem, N.J., site, Jimmy Tuley has played an integral role in the success of the Mannington Residential business. Over the years, he has served in several leadership roles, including vice president of residential LVT and senior vice president of sales, before being named president of Mannington Residential in 2023. Throughout his career, Jimmy’s leadership, drive to succeed and commitment to Mannington’s values have consistently helped move the business forward.
As a former place kicker at the University of Alabama and the son of a football coach, Jimmy brings both strong leadership and a true team-first mentality to his role. He is focused on the goal of making the residential business—and the people who work within it—the best it can be, and luckily for us, he’s better at hitting those goals than the ones in Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Jimmy’s commitment to Mannington’s culture and values has been especially important as the residential flooring industry has faced significant external challenges in recent years. He has helped his team stay focused on what they can control, while fostering trust, collaboration and resilience across the organization.
Thanks to Jimmy’s leadership and dedication, Mannington Residential has continued to be successful during some challenging times. He truly exemplifies what it means to make a difference at Mannington.
Tom Pendley is president and CEO, Mannington Mills
Julian Dossche:
Building something that lasts
By Greg Wrenn
Before Julian Dossche was my business partner, he was my running buddy. We logged a lot of miles together starting in 2018, and somewhere between the hills and the hard conversations, I realized I was running alongside someone who thinks differently than most people in this industry.
The Dossche name carries real weight in flooring that is synonymous with innovation and relationships. Julian grew up inside that legacy but is building something entirely his own. Where the family helped define what flooring could be as a product, Julian is working to innovate everything around it: go-to-market strategy, supply chain, technology, company culture. Canopy Flex, our self-adhering hard surface line that eliminates glue in an industry striving for installation labor solutions, is that thinking applied to a problem that actually keeps retailers up at night.
Julian’s vision isn’t always measured in what we say yes to but rather in what we don’t. No to stripping quality to hit a price point. No to oversaturated markets. No to the deal that benefits us internally but at a partner’s expense. That discipline is the strategy.
The team that he has built reflects the same values. Julian knows his employees, their families and their stories at all levels of the company. Around the office we jokingly call him “The Mayor,” and it fits with his involvement in United Way, North GA Soccer Academy, Dalton State and more. That same investment in people shows up in a culture built on performers who care about the work, the customer and each other.
Julian has the vision and patience to leave this industry better than he found it.
Greg Wrenn is VP, product and brand at International Flooring Company
Jordan Biasetti McDonald:
Creating connections across the industry
By Melissa Stocks
In an industry built on relationships, few people understand the art of connection quite like Jordan Biasetti McDonald. She has a natural gift for making people feel seen and supported. Nearly a decade into her career at Mohawk, that enthusiasm for the work and the people has never wavered.
Jordan started in digital communications, where she built her reputation as someone who could translate strategy into action and bring people along with her. Now a member of the Customer Loyalty and Rewards team, she is passionate about working one on one with Mohawk’s Edge retail partners to help them maximize their benefits and be as profitable as possible. Her genuine curiosity about what motivates each retailer and what they need to succeed is what sets her apart, and it shows. The relationships she has built run deep, earned one conversation and one solved problem at a time.
She also plays an instrumental role in shaping Mohawk’s 25-year corporate partnership with Susan G. Komen. Jordan bleeds ‘pink,’ and that dedication is contagious. She has energized leadership, rallied the sales team and inspired retailers to get more involved in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Series than ever before.
For Jordan, every interaction is a collaboration. She loves what she does, and everyone she works with can feel it.
Melissa Stocks is Mohawk’s director of public relations and communications
Jean-Pierre Thabet:
Honoring the past, shaping the future
By Anne-Marie Quirion
Jean-Pierre Thabet has embodied a leadership style that is both deeply rooted and forward thinking. Long before his official appointment as president, his influence was already evident through thoughtful decision-making, a deep understanding of the business and a genuine connection with the people who drive it forward. Having grown alongside the company founded by his father, Pierre Thabet, Jean-Pierre embodies the very DNA of Mirage—its heritage, its know-how and its ambition.
His leadership is grounded in the values that define us: respect, integrity, engagement and innovation. Respect is reflected in his deeply human approach, recognizing that Mirage’s greatest strength lies in those who bring it to life every day. Integrity guides his decisions, ensuring continuity, trust and unwavering standards. Through active engagement, he brings people together around a shared vision, fostering pride, collaboration and long-term commitment.
Innovation remains his compass. Under Jean-Pierre’s leadership, Mirage continues to evolve, responding to market realities while remaining true to its expertise and its promise of quality, design and sustainability. Supporting customers, empowering partners and shaping the future of our industry define his sense of progress.
We acknowledge Jean-Pierre Thabet not only for the role he holds, but for the impact he has made and continues to make by leading with conviction, honoring our values and guiding Mirage with passion.
Anne-Marie Quirion is marketing communications manager at Mirage
Celine Quervel:
Vision and passion in equal doses
By Derek Welbourn
Celine Quervel, managing director, Classen Group, stands out as one of the top influencers in 2026 for how she’s blending heritage with innovation. As a third-generation leader of Classen—one of Germany’s flooring pioneers—she’s bringing fresh energy to a company over six decades old. Classen, once known for its global laminate dominance, has now expanded into cutting-edge PVC-free flooring (Ceramin), and Celine is leading this evolution. Under 30, she’s already making waves—traveling worldwide and infusing the business with forward-looking strategies. She’s not only preserving Classen’s legacy but pushing it further—championing sustainability, diversity and a global outlook. From marketing to style, she’s guiding Classen into a modern era, ensuring it remains both relevant and bold on the international stage.
Derek Welbourn is CEO, Inhaus
Allison Rea:
Servant leadership in action
By Max Holland
For more than two decades, Allison Rea has been a driving force behind the success of FEI Group members and a true example of servant leadership in action. Joining FEI Group in 2001 as marketing manager, Allison built the marketing function from the ground up, serving for many years as a one-person division before growing and leading a talented team today as vice president of marketing.
What makes Allison special is her unwavering commitment to the independent contractor. She approaches every initiative through the lens of member needs, always asking how FEI Group can better help members thrive on their own terms. Long before digital marketing became essential in the flooring industry, Allison recognized the importance of technology and championed world-class websites and digital solutions for FEI Group members. Allison is known internally as one of the hardest working people on the team, living by the philosophy that “the harder I work, the luckier I get.” She combines intelligence, creativity and a relentless drive for excellence with an exceptional level of emotional intelligence. A lifelong learner and passionate leader, Allison embodies FEI Group’s core values of commitment, servant leadership, pursue what’s next and walk the talk.
Max Holland is executive vice president, FEI Group
Seth Arnold:
The ‘change agent’
By Carolyn Haicl
Seth Arnold is the kind of leader whose character reveals itself long before you look at his résumé. He tells a story about being a young man in Texas, driving a school bus to put himself through college. He’ll tell you his favorite passengers were the middle schoolers because he saw their potential and wanted to help them find their footing. That instinct to see what individuals and teams are truly capable of—and to drive them toward their best—has defined his leadership style ever since.
Seth brings humor, strategic acumen and a strong work ethic to every challenge. Colleagues describe him as a “change agent.” His years of experience in the flooring industry have given him a command of market dynamics, while his creative approach ensures he never stops looking for a better way forward.
What sets Seth apart is how he combines consumer-driven thinking with deep passion for and knowledge of the independent retailer. He brings that outside-in perspective to everything from product conversations to go-to-market strategy, connecting what consumers are looking for to how brands and retail partners can show up for them.
Seth has a gift for crafting a vision that’s ambitious enough to inspire and clear enough that people can see themselves in it and see the path to get there. It’s the kind of leadership that doesn’t just set direction but brings people along.
Carolyn Haicl is senior vice president of marketing & brands, Shaw Residential
Andrea Blackburn:
The heartbeat of FCIF
By Charlie Dilks
Andrea Blackburn has a unique superpower in our industry: she somehow manages to be the calmest person in the room while simultaneously getting more done than the rest of us combined.
As executive director of the Floor Covering Industry Foundation, Andrea has become the heartbeat of FCIF. When someone in our industry is facing a catastrophic illness, financial hardship or life-changing crisis, Andrea is often the first voice they hear and the steady hand guiding them through it.
What makes Andrea special is that none of this feels transactional to her. She remembers names, stories, spouses, children and circumstances. She follows up long after others might move on. In an industry known for hard work and strong relationships, Andrea embodies the very best of both.
She also possesses a rare ability to balance compassion with relentless execution. And she does it all with grace, humor and an energy level that, frankly, makes the rest of us look lazy. The flooring industry is stronger, kinder and more connected because Andrea Blackburn is part of it.
Charlie Dilks is chief product officer of CCA Global and board chair of the Floor Covering Industry Foundation
Lauren Voit:
Decisive and determined
By Scott Humphrey
It has been my pleasure to admire Lauren’s leadership for over 10 years. Her journey in the flooring industry has been nothing short of inspiring.
In January 2026, she stepped into the role of chairperson of the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), becoming the youngest chairperson in the organization’s history. As president of Great Western Flooring Company in Naperville, Ill., Lauren has made a significant impact since taking on the role of president in 2015. Under her leadership and that of her sister, Dana Park, they achieved remarkable success.
Lauren joined the WFCA in 2018 and swiftly rose through the ranks. She is passionate about the industry and the people who rely on it for their livelihood.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lauren prioritizes her family life. She is a dedicated wife and mother to two children. Balancing a thriving career with family responsibilities, Lauren exemplifies the essence of a true leader.
Her decisiveness and determination are key traits; when Lauren sets her mind to something, it gets done. If you want to see where the future of flooring is headed, follow Lauren Voit. Her vision and leadership will surely shape the industry in the years to come.
Scott Humphrey is CEO of the World Floor Covering Association
