Certified Flooring Installers (CFI), a division of the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) and a leading certification organization, has appointed Ralph Falavinha as its new executive vice president, effective Jan. 1. Falavinha succeeds WFCA COO Steve Abernathy, who has served as interim executive director.
Falavinha’s career touches on nearly every facet of the flooring industry, according to CFI. He began as a young installation apprentice under his father’s guidance and expanded into all flooring categories during his 20s. In 2006, he first managed a successful workroom for a national home center. Over time, he oversaw multiple installation crews and later operated a thriving retail store.
After a decade in retail, Falavinha transitioned to a prominent flooring manufacturer in the sundry/accessory segment, further broadening his skill set in product management, process creation and strategic business development. These experiences have shaped his comprehensive understanding of the trade and laid the groundwork for his commitment to training, education and supporting the next generation of flooring professionals, CFI said.
Falavinha is a certified flooring installer in three product categories. He also holds IICRC certifications in Water Restoration (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD). Currently, he is pursuing certification as an Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT). A Dalton, Ga., resident, Falavinha is fluent in Portuguese and English and proficient in Spanish.
“Ralph brings a depth of experience and a genuine passion for the flooring trade that aligns perfectly with CFI’s goals,” said Abernathy. “His proven track record in installation, retail management and industry training, combined with his CFI certification and linguistic skills, makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead CFI into its next era of growth and influence.”
As executive vice president, Falavinha will broaden CFI’s educational outreach, form key industry partnerships and provide accessible training tools. “I’m honored to join CFI and contribute to an industry that has shaped my career,” he stated. “By expanding our resources, strengthening mentorship and increasing certification opportunities, we’ll ensure today’s installers—and the next generation—have the skills, credentials and support needed to thrive.”
