Washington, D.C. —INSTALL has expanded recognition of its apprenticeship and workforce training programs across the western U.S. as contractors seek more skilled flooring installers.
Recent approvals in Seattle and reciprocity agreements in Oregon and Montana expand the program’s reach. The additions build on statewide apprenticeship recognition INSTALL received in California in 2024.
The United Brotherhood of Carpenters has launched the apprenticeship programs as workforce needs continue to grow throughout the region.
“Our continuing approvals throughout the West demonstrate our commitment to doing the work necessary to attract new contractors and apprentices while maintaining the highest standards of our trade,” said David Gross, INSTALL executive director. “Expanding INSTALL’s apprenticeship reach is a critical part of achieving our broader goals of training the next generation of installers and establishing performance assurance through installer qualifications that become part of the procurement process.”
Gross said Nevada is also experiencing strong growth. The Las Vegas area has recorded sustained increases in apprentice work hours and contractor demand for INSTALL-trained installers.
Expanding installer training
INSTALL provides apprentices with hands-on training and technical instruction at its training centers. Veteran instructors lead the training.
The Carpenters International Training Fund develops the curriculum with input from manufacturers and industry leaders. The organization regularly reviews the program to address emerging flooring trends, technologies and installation techniques.
The curriculum centers on nine areas: standard skills, carpet, resilient flooring, resinous flooring, hardwood flooring, concrete polishing, safety, productivity and green building awareness.
The program also incorporates manufacturer-specific methods. INSTALL works with an alliance of more than 130 mills and manufacturers to help inform that training.
INSTALL standards outline the competencies apprentices must demonstrate to complete the program.
The U.S. Department of Labor and Canadian provincial labor departments regularly review the standards. INSTALL said the structure helps workers develop the technical knowledge and practical experience needed to meet industry standards and changing jobsite demands.
More information about INSTALL’s apprenticeship program is available at installfloors.org.