By Jon Namba
I’ve been blessed with a career in the flooring installation industry full of friendships, networking, and the opportunity to meet new people every day, and now I have the opportunity to work again with familiar faces from ProInstaller magazine. I’m excited to be working with Jeff, Dan and Mike and providing you, the readers, with information that I hope will help you in your life and business.
For those who don’t know me, I’ve been in the industry since 1976, and during that time have earned certifications in all types of flooring, decorative concrete coatings and concrete moisture testing. I own and operate a family business in Salt Lake City where I consult, inspect, install and remodel as a licensed general contractor. I’m also deeply involved with several installation trade associations where I get the chance to train installers and contractors across the country.
The industry on the whole has had a pretty good run with the construction industry seeing major job opportunities, but with the changes we’ve all experienced in the past several years, the country has seen an overall decline in available work. Some areas have been hit harder than others. What we have seen in the past few years is the ability for skilled installers to raise their prices, understanding their knowledge and hands-on skills are in demand. If you find that you are in somewhat of a rut with fewer installs, 2024 is a great time to look at your business and see what changes you can make to improve. You know what has been working now look at where you feel you need to strengthen.
Also, know there are a range of flooring associations with your best interest in mind and training opportunities for both hands-on and business skills. Additionally, the Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) can assist new individuals looking to get into the flooring trades. Make sure to make an investment in your business to get through the ups and downs of the economy.
May 2024 bring you all health and success! Remember, “Don’t fear failure so much that you refuse to try new things. The saddest summary of a life contains three descriptions: could have, might have, and should have.” (Louis E. Boone)
About the Author:
Jon Namba has been in the floor covering industry since 1976. His experience includes installation and certifications of hardwood, carpet, resilient, ceramic tile, laminate, decorative concrete coatings and concrete moisture testing. He has experience in retail sales, retail management and commercial contract sales. He is active with installation associations promoting education and training for the flooring industry.
He is also actively involved in his business in Salt Lake City, where he owns and operates a family business doing consulting, inspections, training, installations and remodeling as a licensed general contractor.
