WIFI Board Meets at TISE to Recap 2024 and Plan for 2025
Las Vegas, NV. - Jan. 28, 2025 – The Women In the Floorcovering Industry (WIFI) board of directors met yesterday at The International Surface Event (TISE) to recap 2024 and plan for 2025.
Grab your TISE schedules and make room for these two can’t miss WIFI events! One day of the show, January 28th, from 2:15–3:00 PM PST, join WIFI for Necklaces and Net Zero in the TISE Women’s Lounge – Islander G - and made a DIY necklace or key chain out of recycled flooring donated by AHF products. On day two, January 29th, from 10:00–10:30 AM PST, be sure to stop by WIFI’s Toast to Women Who Floor the World for free breakfast in the Mohawk booth. Both events are free to attend. Register here.
The non-profit WIFI had a remarkable 2024, marked by growth and engagement that furthered its mission to attract, educate, and empower women in the flooring industry.
Professional Development & Leadership Growth
WIFI’s mentoring program saw outstanding success, with over 120 participants to date across three cohorts. The structured six-month program paired mentors and mentees through personalized matching and provided a structured framework for networking calls and guided discussion topics. The program is currently taking applications for a fourth cohort through mid-February. Additionally, the WIFI board participated in the SEAL Leadership Training & Certification program through WFCA and is expanding the partnership between the two organizations due to strong demand. WIFI is providing partial scholarships for 20 women in flooring for the SEAL leadership training in 2025.
Educational Impact & Scholarships
One of WIFI’s most impactful contributions was through scholarships. To date, WIFI has awarded $43,499 to 13 women who are pursuing education, certifications, and technical training. This investment helped women advance their careers and gain industry-recognized credentials.
Power Hour & Conferences
WIFI’s virtual Power Hour series thrived, covering topics such as leadership, AI, surface trends, coaching and networking, drawing over 700 participants, with some sessions exceeding 100 live attendees. The organization also hosted and participated in 16 in-person events across major industry conventions, including TISE, Coverings, NAFCD, and NeoCon, and held a co-branded conference with Shaw Industries’ WIN Group with over 400 attendees. WIFI hosted education sessions at conventions with Starnet, Alliance Flooring, Floor Coverings International, CFI – FCICA, and at the Mohawk Edge Summit, ensuring women had access to networking and professional development across the country. In 2025, WIFI looks forward to adding education sessions at the NWFA Expo and the Abbey Convention.
Fundraising & Financial Growth
WIFI secured $140,200 in donations, with the top contributions from Mohawk, Shaw, and Mannington, Floor Covering Weekly, and the World Floor Covering Association. Additional corporate donors included: Alliance Flooring, Beseda Flooring, Cali, Engineered Floors, Floor Coverings International, Fuse Alliance, IFC, The International Surface Event, Poindexter Flooring, Roesel-Heck, Tarkett, and Universal Fibers. Thank you to the many individuals who supported WIFI by joining the individual giving society as well!
The successful Tapas & Tile fundraising event held at Barnsley Gardens last September also generated significant funds for scholarships and programs. The event featured a tile art project from mosaic artist Mercedes Austin of Mosaic Candy Shop. Thanks to the board leadership and generous donors, WIFI is positioned for financial stability for future initiatives.
Marketing & Community Engagement
WIFI’s marketing efforts flourished, with increased blog posts, press releases, and social media presence. The team also worked to strengthen relationships with retail groups, trade associations, and corporate sponsors, enhancing the organization's long-term impact.
Looking Ahead
With solid financial backing, growing participation, and expanded educational programs, WIFI is poised for an even greater impact in 2025. The organization remains committed to empowering women and creating leadership opportunities in the floorcovering industry. Visit womeninflooring.org to join the movement!
About Women In the Floorcovering Industry (WIFI)
Women In the Floorcovering Industry (WIFI) is an educational non-profit organization dedicated to attracting, educating, and empowering women in the flooring industry. Through scholarships, professional development, mentoring, and educational events, WIFI fosters growth and community among its members. Learn more at womeninflooring.org.
For more information about WIFI’s events at TISE or to register, visit womeninflooring.org/gatherings