Shaun Wadsworth, Training Manager at the Contract Flooring Association (CFA), recently joined us on the UK Flooring Podcast to discuss his journey from being an upholsterer to becoming a key player in the flooring industry.
**Background and Transition:**
Shaun's story is a classic tale of seizing opportunities when life takes unexpected turns. Failing his A Levels led him to explore the world of trade. He started in the furniture industry in the East Midlands but eventually transitioned to the flooring sector in 2018.
**Contract Flooring Association (CFA):**
Shaun's role at the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) involves managing training for the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA). The CFA is a not-for-profit trade association that provides essential support to the commercial flooring sector, including contract flooring companies.
**Support for Smaller Players:**
For flooring retailers and smaller contractors, the National Institute of Carpet and Floor Layers (NICF) offers support such as insurances, technical guidance, and local representation. Even though there isn't a specific accreditation for wood floor sanding, there's a wide range of training available to improve skills in different aspects of flooring.
**Training with FITA:**
FITA, the Flooring Industry Training Association, is a not-for-profit training organisation co-founded by the CFA and NICF. It offers a diverse range of training courses for floor layers, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
**Localised Apprenticeship Provision:**
The "Future Fitter" initiative by CFA is set to expand localised apprenticeship provision. It aims to bring training closer to where aspiring floor layers live, reducing the need for long-distance travel.
**Challenges and Solutions:**
The biggest challenge in the flooring industry right now is increasing the number of skilled floor layers. "Future Fitter" is addressing this challenge by expanding training opportunities and providing more support to those entering the industry.
Shaun's story serves as an inspiration for those looking to pivot their careers and explore new opportunities in the world of flooring. The industry is evolving, and initiatives like "Future Fitter" are making it more accessible to aspiring floor layers.
Listen to the episode in full to discover many more informational nuggets.
For more insightful episodes on flooring and training, visit the [UK Flooring Podcast](https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/).
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