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MASTER INSTALLER QUALIFICATION MAKES RELOCATION EASY
The Quick-Step Master Installer programme is at the heart of the Academy for Excellence in Flooring’s efforts to boost standards in the industry, providing experienced installers with a manufacturer-backed lifetime workmanship guarantee.
Having been in the flooring industry for over 30 years, Steve Whitburn is one such installer who is now enjoying the benefits of Master Installer status for wood, laminate and LVT flooring. Working in almost every part of the trade, from his start as a domestic fitter to national contract firms and private domestic work; Steve is certainly among one of the industry’s most experienced installers.
Recently relocating from Birmingham to a new home in Torquay, Devon, Steve saw the Master Installer badge as an opportunity to promote the wood and laminate side of his fitting work to secure work with companies in his new local area.
Steve Whitburn said: “I knew that I had to be able to back up my experience with a qualification that would be recognised by local companies.
“The Quick-Step brand is well- established and trusted, so the Master Installer programme looked like the right choice. In fact, it proved so successful in establishing the business in my new locality that I returned to the Academy six months later to complete the LVT Master Installer course.
“To be honest, I was quite surprised by all the technical and background information – you don’t realise how much actually goes into product development. We were shown a range of core practical skills, such as how to fit stairs properly, but it was the tweaks, tips and tricks to
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make things easier and quicker that have made a real difference.”
Taking forward his newly-acquired skills into domestic work throughout the Torquay region, Steve has also seen further benefits to being a Master Installer badge holder.
“The recognition of the Quick-Step brand among consumers, combined with the lifetime guarantee, gives you an edge on closing work. It’s certainly helped me to establish myself in the area. I also get a regular flow of enquiries from the Quick-Step website, where I’m listed as a Master Installer operating in the Torquay area. Support from the Academy has also been flawless, with the social media platforms connected to the Academy really helpful when you’re onsite and in a bit of a pickle!
“Training is definitely the way forward in
the trade. It’s great that the Academy covers things such as subfloor preparation in-depth and highlights that this crucial element is often a reason for failing floors. It should be at the top of the agenda for all courses. I’d recommend the Master Installer programme for anyone looking to improve their skills and enhance their reputation in their local community,” continued Steve.
The Academy for Excellence in Flooring currently has availability for the three- day training and certification scheme. The programme includes a mixture of discussions, presentations, one-to-one mentoring throughout the course and up to five practical installations in dedicated training bays. At the end of the course, there will be a pass or fail assessment for the Master Installer status.
www.quick-step-academy.co.uk www.tomorrowsretailfloors.com
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