Women in Flooring

F. Ball’s most recent ‘Women in Flooring’ course has been given enthusiastic reviews by female flooring professionals keen to develop their experience and knowledge of floorcovering installation while networking with other women in the sector, dispelling any notion that a career in the industry is just for men.

The two-day course covered both subfloor preparation and adhesive selection. Held at the F. Ball Centre of Excellence, it provided delegates with hands-on experience using a range of the company’s products, with both theory and practical elements taking place in the state of the art, F. Ball Centre of Excellence.

Attendees also received a guided tour of F. Ball’s production and laboratory facilities, which provides the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the research and development involved in manufacturing the company’s products.

The course was presented by F. Ball head of training, Tim Green, along with development chemists, Janine Day and Laura Humphries, Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) Manager, Jenny Barnett, and Marketing Communications Manager, Lisa Shirley. Participants came from various areas within the flooring sector, with roles ranging from installers to sales team members.

Those who attended the course commented on how much they learned and how it has helped them connect with other professionals in the industry. Ruth Took, office manager at Beyond Flooring, said: “It’s been absolutely fantastic. Apart from being very informative, it’s also been great to meet other women in the flooring industry and to learn all about their companies and experiences. It’s great to learn about the company at F. Ball, as well and how much of a family business they are and how they all work together really well.”

Tim Green, added: “While women can, and are encouraged to, attend any training course, the purpose of the Women in Flooring course is to give women the opportunity to network with female professionals, alongside developing their understanding of subfloor preparation and floorcovering installation. The course received excellent feedback, all of the delegates got stuck into the practical sessions, and we were really pleased with the turnout.”

The F. Ball Centre of Excellence offers free training for all flooring professionals, including specialist courses for both apprentices and seasoned professionals, which are led by experts from the company’s technical department. The courses cover a variety of topics that are taught through practical demonstrations and exercises using a range of F. Ball products.