PFIA Frequently Asked Questions
The PFIA Organization

1. What is the PFIA?
The Professional Flooring Installers Association (PFIA) is the premier professional flooring organization in the industry. Our members are reliable contractors and flooring specialists who employ skilled union installers and adhere to the highest quality and safety standards. They are INSTALL certified.

We promote skilled and professional union labor in the workplace and are committed to the advancement of the flooring industry. We establish and maintain an effective working relationship with organized labor and emphasize quality workmanship, safety training and the continued education of our labor force.

2. How much does it cost to join the PFIA?
The cost of membership is $100, which is payable and renewed annually.

3. I've been in this business for 20 years without being a member of the PFIA How will joining the PFIA benefit my company?
Joining the PFIA means you will be further investing in the long-term profitability of your company. Our organization has a history of successful negotiations with the union on behalf of members. You can expect to receive greater exposure for your company. You'll also have ongoing opportunities to learn from – and interact with – the industry's leading experts in business, professional development and safety.

4. How do I join the PFIA? What can I expect as a new member?
You can join the PFIA by completing and submitting the member application form included in this package.

Once you become a member, you will be introduced to the PFIA membership at a monthly PFIA meeting. You will receive access to a customizable and comprehensive PFIA safety program that meets and exceeds industry standards. You also will be invited to attend PFIA meetings.

Qualifying members also receive the opportunity for their children and those of their employees to apply for the PFIA Jack Karp Scholarship.

5. What types of organizations, and how many of these organizations, belong to the PFIA?
The PFIA membership is made up of more than 40 local and national flooring businesses.

6. How many levels of membership are there?
There are four levels of membership:

1.) Member - A flooring contractor who employs union labor.

2.) Associate Member - A flooring maintenance contractor who employs union labor.

3.) Vendor Partner - Either a flooring contractor who does not employ their own labor, or a flooring supplier or manufacturer.

4.) Honorary Member - A member who has had membership bestowed upon them by the PFIA, such as a retired member.

 

7. What type of programs does the PFIA offer?
PFIA offers two types of programs:

1.) Ongoing Safety Training
Safety training in the workplace remains a key issue for the PFIA. Our training assures that workers stay up-to-date on current OSHA regulations, as well as the proper use of chemicals, tools and equipment. This comprehensive training program, which is continuously updated, can be customized to fit each member's location or company needs.

2.) PFIA Monthly Member Meetings
The PFIA meetings foster open communication and provide helpful and relevant information. We aim to make our members "Experts through Education" during these meetings, which are held on the last Wednesday of the month. A wide variety of industry suppliers are invited to present the latest products and industry developments.

8. How can I benefit from the PFIA's relationship with the Union?
One of the benefits of PFIA membership is our organization's 25 years of successful union negotiation experience. Our accomplished members often serve as representatives in negotiating contract agreements and can serve as liaisons in union matters.

9. Who are the organization's officers? Who is on the board of directors?
Please visit Officers & Committees for a complete list of current officers, directors and committees.

10. How is the board of directors (including its president) elected?
Each year in October or November, the standing president appoints a nominating committee that submits a slate of officers to the membership for a vote.  Nominations are always welcome from the floor.

The board of directors is made up of the current officers, the chair of the Joint Labor/Management Committee, the treasurer of the Trust Fund, and the past president.

11. What level of involvement can I expect to have in the PFIA organization?
We value our member's expertise and therefore encourage of all them to be involved in the organization. We have more than seven committees and invite you to join an existing committee or submit your idea on starting a new one. Please visit Officers & Committees for a complete list of current officers, directors and committees.

We also encourage our members to submit their ideas and insights for our PFIA newsletter and monthly meetings.

PFIA Member Meetings

1. How often are member meetings held?
During the months of January through October, PFIA meetings are held on the last Wednesday of each month. Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, the November meeting is held on the 2nd or 3rd Wednesday of the month. We do not hold a December meeting due to our annual holiday party.

2. How are topics for the meetings chosen?
Topics for the monthly meetings are gathered from several resources including the PFIA program committee, member suggestions, and current industry hot topics.

3. What are some of the topics/items addressed at previous meetings?
In our aim to make our members industry and business experts through ongoing education, our past meetings have included relevant flooring and enterprise-enhancing topics such as Job Cost Accounting, the latest on Moisture Testing Equipment and Digitized Estimating Equipment.

Please visit the Meeting Archives page for details about past meetings.

4. Where are the member meetings held?
The meetings are held at various locations throughout the city of Chicago and surrounding suburbs.

 

5. How much are the meetings? Who can attend?
The cost to attend the PFIA meetings is $50 per attendee. All PFIA members and their staff are invited. We also invite other organizations and business in our industry in an effort to encourage their joining and involvement in our organization.

Dinner is included in every meeting, which provides additional networking and idea-exchange opportunities for our members.

6. What are the topics of future member meetings?
Please visit Upcoming Events Calendar for information about future meetings and events.

7. Can I participate in a meeting? If so, how?
We encourage your active participation in our member meetings! Please complete the application form.