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THE WFCA INDUSTRY AWARDS RECIPIENTS
The Tom Jennings Champion Award
In January, the WFCA’s 2023 co-recipients of this award were given to Michael Faust (posthumously) and Chad Ogden at Surfaces in Las Vegas for outstanding achievements in exceptional service, positive attitude, and commitment to customers and community.
Chad Ogden
Chad Ogden, the visionary founder of QFloors, established the prominent flooring software company in 1999, propelling it to the forefront of the industry. The software’s first installation in an Ogden store marked the beginning of QFloors’ journey as a transformative tool in the flooring industry.
Ogden, recognized as a beacon of integrity and a role model for leaders, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to living and teaching correct principles. His leadership style cultivates a culture of ownership, accountability, empowered stewardship, responsibility, inclusion, and alignment, inspiring confidence throughout the organization.
Ogden’s dedication to customer service is not just a philosophy; it’s a daily practice. From answering customer calls during peak times to working tirelessly to resolve technical issues, his hands-on approach resonates with customers and employees.
Today, QFloors’ success is guided by Odgen’s principle: ”It’s making other people and other businesses successful; that’s what we’re all about, and I think that defines our success.”
Mike Faust
With over 45 years dedicated to the industry, Faust, founder of Carpeting by Mike, has left an enduring impact on customers, communities, and the flooring profession. Faust’s infectious smile and laughter became synonymous with his approach to business and life.
Guided by a set of core beliefs encompassing humility, honesty, ethics, continuous learning, and a steadfast commitment to doing what is right, Faust devoted his entire life to aiding others globally.
Following his passing, his daughter Typhannie Harker took on the responsibility of continuing her father’s legacy as the new owner of Carpeting by Mike in 2018.
“Carpeting by Mike is one of the stellar retailers in our industry, and it has been an honor and a privilege to partner with them through the past four decades,” remarked Jeff Lorberbaum, Mohawk Chairman and CEO.
Faust is being recognized for his contributions to the flooring industry and the indomitable spirit and values that shaped his remarkable journey.
Luminary Award
WFCA’s Luminary Award honors individuals’ excellence and inspirational actions in their careers and communities for their mentorship, leadership, and contributions to advancing the floor covering industry.
Kathy Young, the former Vice President of Marketing Services at Shaw Industries, received the esteemed Luminary Award in January for her exceptional contributions and remarkable 45-year career in the floor covering industry at Surfaces in Las Vegas.
Young exhibited exceptional resilience, accountability, and reliability, persevering during a male-dominated era in the industry. She played a crucial role in Shaw’s growth, overseeing retail licensing programs for prominent brands like Kathy Ireland, Martha Stewart, and HGTV. Young significantly contributed to women’s inclusion in the residential flooring market.
Young exhibited exceptional resilience, accountability, and reliability, persevering during a male-dominated era in the industry. She played a crucial role in Shaw’s growth, overseeing retail licensing programs for prominent brands like Kathy Ireland, Martha Stewart, and HGTV. Young significantly contributed to women’s inclusion in the residential flooring market.
Her leadership exceeded beyond corporate success, as Young spearheaded Shaw’s efforts, making the company the top sponsor for St. Jude Marathon fundraising, raising over $700,000.
Kathy’s unwavering commitment, innovative spirit, and transformative leadership have shaped companies and left a lasting impact on the floor covering industry.
