WIFI announces upcoming events, leadership programs and recognition opportunities
Women In the Floorcovering Industry is creating new opportunities for women across the flooring industry to connect, learn and grow through a series of virtual and in-person events this fall. From leadership discussions and professional development to networking and industry recognition, the upcoming programs offer ways for women at every career stage to get involved.
Upcoming WIFI events and opportunities include:
“Presence in Action: How Women Lead with Confidence in Every Room” | Oct. 27
Presented at the Greater Dalton Chamber of Commerce Fully You Women’s Summit at the Dalton Convention Center, the panel will feature moderator Emily Finkell, EF Floors & Design, and panelists Alexandra Bradford, Mohawk; Katelin Ahern, Engineered Floors; and Annie Cowart, Shaw Industries.
“Been There, Learned That” Power Hour | Nov. 6
This virtual conversation begins at noon ET and will be moderated by Amy Rush-Imber, Floor Covering Weekly. Panelists Brenda Knowles, Shaw Industries; Stephanie Owen, National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA); Alexandra Roberts, Roberts Fine Flooring; and Lauren Voit, Great
Western Flooring Co., will share career lessons, challenges and insights for women at every stage of their careers.
WIFI Book Club: “The Art of Gathering” | Nov. 12 and Dec. 3
Join WIFI for virtual book club discussions Nov. 12 and Dec. 3 at noon ET. Renee Littleton of Kährs Americas and Carlene Blanding will host the virtual book club. Participants will explore Priya Parker’s “The Art of Gathering” and share insights on creating more meaningful, intentional connections.
“What’s in Your Toolbox? Modern Hacks for Women in Flooring to Simplify Work & Life” | Nov. 12
Presented at 11 a.m. ET during the Certified Flooring Installers (CFI), Flooring Consultants Installation Training Services (FCITS) and Floor Covering Installation Contractors Association (FCICA) Synergy Convention in Chattanooga, Tennessee, this interactive session will feature Jackie Adams, Floor Coverings International; Andrea Blackbourn, Floor Covering Industry Foundation (FCIF) and WIFI; and Nichole Poindexter-Wilson, Poindexter Flooring. The panelists will share practical tools, apps and AI resources to simplify work and everyday life.
Mohawk Edge Summit | Dec. 1–3
WIFI will participate in the Mohawk Edge Summit in Dallas, Texas, with a booth Dec. 2–3, a networking brunch Dec. 3 at 10 a.m. CT and the “Women Who Lead: Insights, Inspiration & Impact” panel Dec. 3 at 3:30 p.m. CT. The panel will be moderated by Laura Bartley and Kelly Oberschlake, both of Mohawk Industries.
2027 Women of Distinction Award Nominations | Deadline Oct. 31
WIFI is accepting nominations for the 2027 Women of Distinction Award, recognizing exceptional women whose leadership, service and impact strengthen the flooring industry. Nominees must have at least 10 years of industry experience and demonstrate excellence in at least two areas: professional impact, service or personal characteristics.
To learn more, register for upcoming programs or submit an award nomination, visit www.womeninflooring.org.
About WIFI
Women In the Floorcovering Industry is a 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit organization dedicated to attracting, educating and empowering women in the flooring industry. Through scholarships, mentoring, leadership training and industry events, WIFI builds a supportive community and creates pathways for women to thrive. To explore programs or support WIFI’s mission, visit www.womeninflooring.org
Individuals and companies can also support WIFI’s mission by becoming Friends of WIFI at https://www.womeninflooring.org/friends