Paul Treanor of Informa Markets is a key leader behind TISE, driving collaboration and innovation within the flooring, stone, and tile industries. His work ensures TISE remains the premier event for professionals to connect, learn, and grow.

Roland Thompson is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in flooring installation and consulting. As an active member of the Certified Flooring Installers (CFI) organization, Roland is dedicated to raising industry standards through training, mentorship, and advocacy for professional excellence.

Scott Humphrey, CEO of the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), is a passionate advocate for the flooring industry. Under his leadership, the WFCA empowers professionals through education, advocacy, and resources, driving innovation and uniting the industry to achieve greater success.

Reuben Potter, founder of Floors by Southern Boys, is a highly respected flooring professional and educator. Known for his dedication to craftsmanship and his passion for teaching, Reuben empowers installers through hands-on training, expert advice, and a commitment to raising standards across the flooring industry.

Catherine (CJ) Church serves as the Executive Director of the Flooring Contractors Association (FCICA), where she leads initiatives to support commercial flooring contractors through education, networking, and certification programs. Under her leadership, FCICA has expanded its Certified Installation Manager (CIM) program, enhancing professional development within the industry.

Jen Zurn is a Project Manager with the Certified Floorcovering Installers (CFI), bringing over 17 years of industry expertise to her role. Based in Dalton, Georgia, she works remotely to support CFI’s mission of raising standards and providing exceptional training opportunities for flooring professionals. With her hands-on experience as a hard surface installer and her dedication to education, Jen plays a vital role in empowering the next generation of flooring experts.

Crystal Sims of Preferred Flooring, is a dedicated professional with years of experience in the flooring industry. Known for her expertise in project management and her passion for installation, Crystal plays an integral role in ensuring Preferred Flooring delivers exceptional results. Her leadership and commitment to excellence make her a vital part of the team driving forward progress in the industry.

Description John Steier, owner of Steier Flooring in Algona, Iowa, is a seasoned flooring professional specializing in a wide range of products, including carpet, sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl plank, laminate, hardwood, and ceramic. Committed to staying current with industry advancements, John not only delivers exceptional value to his clients but also dedicates time to training and certifying fellow tradesmen, reflecting his passion for elevating the flooring profession.goes here

Kevin Keefe is the National Technical Sales Manager at QEP Roberts, where he has dedicated over six years to supporting the flooring industry with innovative tools and solutions. With a focus on technical expertise and customer success, Kevin works closely with professionals across the trade to ensure they have the resources and support needed to excel in their craft. His leadership and commitment make him a valued figure in the industry.

Jake Stefan serves as a Territory Manager at Shaw Industries, a leading global flooring provider. In his role, Jacob is responsible for overseeing sales and client relationships within his designated region, ensuring that customers receive exceptional service and support. His dedication to understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions has made him a valuable asset to Shaw Industries and its clientele.

With over 25 years in the flooring industry and 13 years of social media expertise, Shannon Vogel leads Reach Social, a professional social media company dedicated to representing businesses across key platforms. Her unique blend of industry knowledge and digital marketing skills empowers clients to build strong online presences that drive consumer confidence.

With over four decades of experience in the construction industry, Kathy Case founded Quantify North America in 2019 to provide comprehensive estimating services for commercial flooring contractors. Her extensive background encompasses roles as a ceramic tile installer, project manager, salesperson, and executive manager, equipping her with a deep understanding of the industry's intricacies. Under her leadership, Quantify delivers accurate takeoffs and near turn-key project management solutions, offering peak expertise from take-off to close-out.

Dave Garden serves as the Executive Director of Education for the International Certified Flooring Installers Association (CFI), a role he has held since May 2022. In this capacity, he oversees all educational programs, develops curricula, and manages a nationwide network of instructors, aiming to elevate the professionalism of the flooring installation trade.

Eduardo Martinez currently serves as a Site Supervisor at Schoenfelder Renovations, Inc., where he oversees on-site operations to ensure projects are completed with precision and quality. With extensive experience in the flooring and renovation industries, Eduardo is dedicated to fostering collaboration, maintaining high standards, and delivering exceptional results.

Daniel Moscovitch is the founder and owner of Flooring Pros Marketing, a digital marketing agency specializing in helping flooring companies enhance their online presence and generate qualified leads. With a diverse background in digital marketing, public relations, and content management, Daniel has been instrumental in driving growth for numerous flooring businesses. His expertise encompasses website design, SEO, Google Ads, and social media advertising, all tailored to the unique needs of the flooring industry.

Beth Miller began her journalistic journey in 2005 while working as a mechanic in her father's garage. Over the years, she has covered a diverse range of topics, from profiling artists to interviewing World War II veterans. In 2010, she transitioned into the healthcare sector, creating digital content for 11 years. Beth earned her master's degree in English from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. In 2017, she entered the flooring industry, where she has effectively combined her technical background and journalistic skills. As the managing editor for Floor Trends & Installation, Beth provides insights and best practices for selling, specifying, and installing floors in both residential and commercial spaces.

Jerry Lee serves as the National Sales Manager for Protect-All Flooring, a division of Oscoda Plastics, Inc. In this role, he leads the company's sales initiatives, focusing on delivering durable and slip-resistant commercial flooring solutions. Jerry has been instrumental in expanding product availability and introducing innovative installation systems, such as the Protect-All Rapid Weld, which reduces installation time and labor costs. His commitment to customer satisfaction and product excellence has significantly contributed to Protect-All's reputation in the commercial flooring industry.

With over 33 years in the floor covering industry, Sonny Callaham began his career as an installer, working with various flooring types in both commercial and residential settings. Currently, he serves as the Technical Director for Divergent Adhesives, where he specializes in forensic investigations related to floor debonding and contributes to product development and technical support. In addition to his role at Divergent Adhesives, Sonny is the co-founder and Chairman of the Board for the National Association of Floor Covering Technicians (NAFCT), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the craftsmanship and professionalism of the flooring industry through training and education.

Dana Canaday is a financial expert specializing in the commercial flooring industry. She has shared her expertise on platforms like The Huddle podcast, discussing topics such as payroll management and the benefits of employing W-2 installers. Her insights have been valuable to many in the industry, particularly those looking to optimize their financial operations.

Ken Ballin is the owner of Skyro Floors, a custom tile and luxury flooring company based in West Creek, New Jersey. He holds certifications as a Certified Tile Installer (CTI #1392) and a Certified Floorcovering Installer (CFI #13604), underscoring his commitment to quality and professionalism in the flooring industry. In addition to his work with Skyro Floors, Ken co-founded Ballin Knows Best, an AI-integrated online community and resource center designed to support flooring and tile installers. This platform offers installers access to expert advice, resources, and support, reflecting Ken's dedication to advancing the industry through innovation and education. Ken is also recognized for his contributions as a speaker, brand ambassador, and content creator, sharing his expertise to elevate industry standards and support fellow professionals. 

Emma Schlittenhardt is the founder and president of Hardt Studio, an award-winning interior design firm based in Wichita, Kansas. With a Master of Architecture degree, Emma specializes in crafting harmonious atmospheres that reflect clients' lifestyles and personalities. Since its inception in 2020, Hardt Studio has been recognized for its excellence, receiving accolades such as the Wichita Eagle’s Reader’s Choice Award for Best Interior Design Firm in 2021, 2022, and 2023. In 2023, Emma expanded her vision by co-founding Bocote, a design showroom at the Waterfront in Wichita, in collaboration with contractor Chad Smith. This venture provides clients with a comprehensive selection of finishes, tiles, and fixtures, enhancing the design experience. Emma's commitment to modern and transitional design, coupled with her proficiency in creating realistic 3D renderings, has distinguished her in the field. Her leadership continues to drive Hardt Studio's growth and reputation for delivering distinctive and memorable interiors.

Mike Newberry is a distinguished professional in the flooring industry, recognized for his leadership and commitment to advancing installation management standards. As a Certified Installation Manager (CIM), he has played a pivotal role in mentoring and training upcoming professionals, notably co-leading the "2 Days to CIM" program in Baltimore, which provided candidates with a supportive, in-person learning experience. Throughout his career, Mike has held significant positions within the Flooring Contractors Association (FCICA), including serving as Chairman. His tenure was marked by efforts to elevate professionalism among contractors and the successful implementation of programs like the CIM and Successors initiatives. Mike's dedication to education and industry advancement continues to influence best practices and professional development within the flooring community.

With over 20 years of experience in the construction industry and more than a decade specializing in commercial flooring management, Mike Kelly excels in delivering comprehensive solutions for commercial flooring projects and nationwide programs. As an Account Manager at Synergy Flooring, he is passionate about collaborating with both customers and team members, believing that clear communication and attention to detail are the keys to a successful project. In addition to his role at Synergy Flooring, Mike is a Certified Installation Manager (CIM) and has served as the Chair of the FCICA CIM Steering Committee, contributing to the advancement of industry standards and education. 

Mario Fernandez Sr., widely known as "FLORGOD," is the owner and operator of Fernandez Floor Covering based in Corona, California. With a career rooted in hands-on experience and a deep passion for the craft, Mario has become a respected figure in the flooring industry. Known for his dedication to excellence and his mission to uplift others in the trade, he embodies the motto, "We Rise By Lifting Others."

Mario’s influence extends beyond the job site, as he continues to inspire and connect with the flooring community through his engaging presence on platforms like TikTok (@florgod111), where he shares knowledge, insights, and a genuine love for the industry.

With over 30 years of experience in the flooring industry, Jason Ramsay is the owner and operator of California Flooring Service, based in Irvine, California. He holds C-15 and C-54 California State Contractor Licenses, specializing in flooring and tile installations. Jason is also an ICRI-certified moisture slab technician and a Certified Hard Surface Flooring and Tile Inspector through the Certified Flooring Inspectors University. His commitment to quality craftsmanship and continuous learning has established him as a trusted professional in the Orange County area.

Carlos Mongalo is the Program Director of the National Flooring Contractors Apprenticeship Program (NFCAP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing highly skilled flooring installers. As a second-generation flooring contractor, Carlos combines his industry expertise with a passion for education and community development. Under his leadership, NFCAP has partnered with organizations such as Job Corps to provide young adults with access to family-sustaining careers in the flooring industry. In recognition of his contributions, Carlos was honored with the Emerging Leader Award at the 2024 NWFA Expo.

Steve Abernathy served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) until his retirement on December 31, 2024. He joined WFCA in 2015 as Vice President of Finance, was promoted to Chief Financial Officer later that year, and became COO in 2023. With nearly four decades of leadership experience in the flooring industry, including 28 years at Shaw Industries, Steve significantly contributed to WFCA's growth and the advancement of the flooring industry. In recognition of his dedication, he received the Tom Jennings Award for Excellence during a ceremony at The International Surface Event (TISE) on January 28, 2025.

Paul Pleshek is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the National Association of Floor Covering Technicians (NAFCT), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the craftsmanship and professionalism of the flooring industry through accessible and affordable training and certification programs. With extensive experience in the flooring sector, Paul has served as President of the National Institute of Floor Covering Inspectors and has been a member of the Board of Directors for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). He has also contributed to various committees within the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), Floor Covering Leadership Council (FCLC), Floor Educational Guild (FEG), and the National Institute of Certified Floorcovering Inspectors (NICFI). Through his leadership at NAFCT, Paul aims to address the industry's installation challenges by partnering with experts, manufacturers, and associations to provide advanced hands-on training and certification opportunities for flooring professionals.

Scott Banda is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Floorcloud, a technology company dedicated to enhancing jobsite quality control in the construction industry. With over 26 years of experience in the construction sector, Scott has a deep understanding of the critical importance of maintaining optimal interior climate conditions during installations. Prior to establishing Floorcloud, Scott served as the North American Director of Marketing & Business Development for Bostik, a global leader in installation solutions for the construction industry. During his 16-year tenure at Bostik, he led new product ideation and commercialization efforts, founded the consumer products group, and played a key role in strategic acquisitions. Through his leadership at Floorcloud, Scott aims to revolutionize the construction industry by providing real-time monitoring solutions that help contractors detect and prevent installation failures, ultimately saving time and resources.

Jon Namba has been a prominent figure in the floor covering industry since 1976, bringing extensive experience across various flooring types, including hardwood, carpet, resilient, ceramic tile, laminate, and decorative concrete coatings. He is the owner of Namba Services Inc., based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Throughout his career, Jon has held significant roles such as Director of Technical Services at the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) and Executive Director of the International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI). He also served as President of the National Wood Flooring Association Certified Professionals (NWFA CP). Currently, Jon is an independent industry consultant, trainer, and speaker, contributing his expertise to various industry publications and events. He serves as the Editorial Director for Floor Covering Installer magazine and has been involved with the Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) as a board member, focusing on addressing the skilled labor shortage in the flooring industry. 

Jesus Garcia is the owner and operator of Cristino Flooring LLC, a flooring company based in Porter, Texas. Established in 2019, the company specializes in floor covering installations, serving both residential and commercial clients. Under Jesus's leadership, Cristino Flooring has built a reputation for quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.

Rod Von Busch serves as the Vice President of Operations at CDI Floors, where he oversees the company's operational strategies and project executions. With a career spanning several decades in the flooring industry, Rod has developed a reputation for his leadership and commitment to excellence. In April 2024, Rod was appointed as the Board Chair of the Certified Flooring Installers (CFI), succeeding Don Styka. Prior to this role, he served as the Vice Chair and was a longstanding member of the CFI Advisory Board. His extensive experience and dedication to the industry have been instrumental in shaping CFI's programs and initiatives. Throughout his career, Rod has been an advocate for professional development and education within the flooring sector. His leadership at both CDI Floors and CFI reflects his commitment to advancing industry standards and supporting the growth of flooring professionals.

With over 40 years of experience in the flooring industry, Robert Varden is a renowned expert in floor covering installation and education. He is the founder and CEO of UNITE, the International Floor Covering Training Alliance, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the recruitment, education, and professionalism of floor installers. Robert also owns Advanced Flooring Technology (AFT), where he develops comprehensive training programs for flooring installers. In 2023, AFT launched a Three-Phase Installer Course designed to advance inexperienced team members to certified carpet and luxury vinyl plank installers efficiently.

Previously, Robert served as the Executive Director of the International Certified Flooring Installers Association (CFI) from 2012 until his departure in 2022. During his tenure, he significantly contributed to the organization's growth and the advancement of installation training programs. In recognition of his expertise, Robert was appointed to the Board of Advisors for Floorcloud™ in 2023, contributing his extensive knowledge to the development of innovative flooring technologies. 

Scott Bohaker is the co-owner and lead installer at BoMont Flooring, a flooring installation and inspection company based in Calhoun, Georgia. With over three decades of experience in both residential and commercial floor covering, Scott holds CFI C2/R2 certification and is a master flooring inspector. His extensive expertise ensures that each project is executed with precision and excellence. Originally from Nova Scotia, Canada, Scott relocated to Georgia in 2007 after a brief period in Puerto Rico. Together with his wife, Tammy, a Georgia native with a BBA in Business Management and 17 years in the floor covering industry, they established BoMont Flooring in 2015. Their combined experience and dedication have built a reputation for quality workmanship and integrity. Scott's commitment to the flooring profession is evident through his continuous pursuit of advanced certifications and active participation in industry training programs. His leadership at BoMont Flooring reflects a dedication to delivering exceptional flooring solutions and fostering strong relationships with clients.

Kyle Hedin is the owner of Illustrious Hardwoods, a flooring installation company based in Mesa, Arizona. Transitioning from a background in digital filmmaking and video production, Kyle entered the flooring industry in 2015, driven by a passion for woodworking and craftsmanship. By 2017, he had established his own business, focusing on delivering high-quality hardwood flooring solutions. Recognizing a gap in business education within the trades, Kyle launched the Floor Academy Podcast in 2019. The podcast aims to assist flooring, tile, and stone contractors in transforming their operations from merely owning a job to owning a sustainable asset. Through discussions on management, entrepreneurship, and networking, Kyle provides valuable insights to help contractors build successful businesses. In addition to the podcast, Kyle facilitates the Floor Academy Business Masterclass, offering flooring business owners opportunities to enhance their knowledge through educational sessions and peer discussions. His commitment to professional development and industry advancement has made him a respected figure in the flooring community

Thomas Jachulski is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Throughout his career, he has provided a variety of services to individuals and groups coping with acute behavioral health challenges, including suicide prevention and crisis intervention, counseling in substance abuse rehabilitation, and trauma-informed care in both residential and outpatient settings. His therapeutic approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), focusing on collaborating with clients to uncover and identify core beliefs and values, and helping them understand the relationship between their thoughts and feelings to achieve healthier, value-driven behaviors. Thomas specializes in treating anxiety disorders, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD/ADD), childhood behavioral problems, depression, family, parent, and child issues, grief and loss, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and PTSD, trauma, and abuse. He works with individuals and families, including adults and adolescents aged 13 and older. His treatment modalities include motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based stress reduction, trauma-informed care, positive youth development models, CBT, and ACT. Thomas is committed to guiding his clients to challenge unhelpful thoughts and behavioral patterns, fostering increased awareness to improve their overall quality of life. He believes that when behaviors are viewed as changeable and manageable, individuals are no longer limited to past patterns and cycles, but gain the potential to bring balance and control to their reactions, and ultimately, to their lives. 

Amanda Hentsch serves as the Director of Membership at the Grand Rapids Chamber, where she leads the membership team and oversees strategic engagement with current and prospective members. In this role, she collaborates closely with the community, supporting businesses and leaders throughout the West Michigan area. With a background in Nonprofit Administration, Amanda is deeply passionate about serving the community, fostering connections, and giving back. She actively contributes to several organizations, including the Junior Achievement Associate Leadership Board, the Gilda’s Club Laughfest Cabinet, and the Hotel District Business Association. In her free time, Amanda enjoys shopping local, dining at local restaurants, spending time outdoors, traveling, and cooking. Amanda was once voted “Most likely to be friends with Members” due to the significant amount of time she spends with members both inside and outside of business hours. Her favorite Chamber events are the West Michigan CEO Summit and the Annual Meeting: State of Business, where she finds inspiration in hearing impactful stories from leaders and learning about the amazing developments happening in the community.

Brooke Davis serves as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Mental Health Services at Kenowa Hills Public Schools in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In this role, she focuses on creating inclusive educational environments that support the well-being and success of all students. Brooke emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance, recognizing that mental health is deeply connected to feeling connected within the school community. Before assuming her current position, Brooke dedicated over five years as a social worker at Zinser Elementary within the same district. Her extensive experience in social work has equipped her with a deep understanding of the diverse needs of students and the significance of addressing both mental health and equity in education.  In her role, Brooke has been instrumental in implementing initiatives such as Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to promote positive behaviors and provide targeted support to students. She also emphasizes the importance of restorative practices and social-emotional learning to create a holistic approach to student well-being. Brooke's dedication to diversity, equity, and mental health is evident in her efforts to engage with the community and provide resources that address the unique challenges faced by students. She believes that by fostering an environment where students can thrive by being their true selves, the foundation for success is established.

Dylan Erickson serves as a Ecommerce Product Manager at Floortoolstore.com, a leading distributor of flooring materials and supplies. In this role, he oversees operations and customer relations, ensuring that clients receive high-quality products and exceptional service. Hank's Specialties operates the Floor Tool Store, an online platform offering a comprehensive selection of flooring tools and materials to customers nationwide. The store provides a variety of products, including tile removal tools, installation supplies, and more, catering to the diverse needs of flooring professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Under Dylan's management, the branch has contributed to the company's reputation as a premier source for flooring installation tools in the United States. His commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has been instrumental in serving the flooring needs of clients across the country.

Jared Lockwood serves as a UZIN Technical Sales Representative at UFloor Systems, Inc., a leading manufacturer of flooring installation systems. Based in Corunna, Indiana, Jared specializes in providing technical support and sales expertise for UZIN products, assisting clients in selecting and applying the appropriate flooring solutions for their projects. With over 17 years of experience in the flooring industry, Jared has collaborated with business owners, architects, general contractors, and flooring installers, bringing a versatile skill set to the UZIN team. His extensive background encompasses both distribution and manufacturing, allowing him to effectively address the diverse needs of flooring professionals. In his role, Jared focuses on the Midwest region, particularly Michigan and Northwest Ohio, where he engages with key accounts, contractors, and UZIN's distributor partner, Blakely Products Co. His commitment to providing exceptional service and technical guidance has been instrumental in supporting the success of flooring installations throughout the region.

With over two decades of experience in the flooring industry, Tom Cockerill is the Co-Founder and Sales Director of Cockerill & Co, a consultancy dedicated to empowering flooring professionals across the UK. Alongside his wife, Sarah, Tom leverages his expertise in sales and marketing to help businesses implement effective strategies, fostering growth and profitability. In 2022, Tom and Sarah launched The UK Flooring Podcast, the nation's first podcast dedicated exclusively to the flooring sector. Through engaging discussions with industry experts, the podcast aims to connect various facets of the industry, from retailers and contractors to manufacturers and distributors, providing valuable insights and fostering a sense of community. Tom's journey in the flooring industry began nearly 20 years ago, during which he successfully built a company with a strong reputation through hard work, trial and error, and tenacity. His experiences have equipped him with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the industry, enabling him to guide others toward success. Through his work at Cockerill & Co and The UK Flooring Podcast, Tom continues to make a positive impact on the lives and businesses of flooring professionals, helping them create structure and profit in their operations.