Special Events
Pre-Expo Educational Opportunities
April 15
Go the Distance by attending our exclusive pre-Expo sessions.
Dive into the latest developments of the NWFA's certification program and gain valuable insights into the unique properties of atypical wood flooring products from a panel of industry professionals, or learn about the importance of coordinating business succession plans.
- Pre-Expo Symposium
- Wood Identification Tips and Techniques: Know More, Guess Less
- The Science Behind Finish Failures
- Moisture Testing Wood Subfloors and Concrete Substrates
- How Will You Prepare Your Company for Succession?
Pre-Expo educational opportunities require additional registration. For more information on these educational sessions, please visit our Education page.
NWFA Certified Sales Advisor Session
April 15 | 8:30 - 3:30 pm
This course provides instruction about different types of wood and their technical attributes as flooring products, how to sell wood against “wood-look” floor coverings, and the benefits of real wood flooring. Also includes minimizing claims and call-backs, guiding the customer to the right species and floor type for their lifestyle, understanding appropriate installation methods and finishes for each project, and developing stronger customer relationships and loyalty throughout the selling process.
Participants will have the opportunity to take the written exam for the Sales Advisor Certification at the end of the course.
Additional registration required. For more information on registering for the NWFA Certified Sales Advisor Session, please visit our Rates and Registration page.
Go the Distance Opening Session
April 15 | 4:30 - 5:45 pm
Join the NWFA for our lively Opening Session, where we'll provide you with an industry update, showcase the NWFA Wood Floor of the Year Awards, and more.
NWFA's 40th Anniversary Reception
April 15 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Continue the celebration after the Opening Session at 40th Anniversary Reception. It's the perfect time to connect with fellow professionals, rekindle old friendships, and enjoy the fast-paced atmosphere of Charlotte.
Women Industry Network Event
April 16 | 8:45 - 10:15 am
The NWFA Women's Industry Network brings together women across the wood flooring supply chain, fostering connections, support, and shared learning experiences. You won't want to miss our annual women's breakfast and networking event.
Floor It and Pour It Happy Hour
April 16 | 4:00 - 5:00 pm
Grab a drink and network with hardwood floor industry peers on the trade show floor.
Distributor & Manufacturer Reception
April 16 | 5:00 - 6:00 pm
Build valuable new business relationships and expand your product reach by joining us at the Distributors & Manufacturers Reception. Network with industry leaders, manufacturers, and distributors at the Charlotte Convention Center. All distributors and manufacturers are warmly welcomed.
Emerging Leaders Reception
April 16 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Join us for the 8th annual NWFA Emerging Leaders Reception, where we celebrate and connect with the bright minds shaping the wood flooring industry's future. All attendees aged 40 and under are encouraged to attend.
Emerging Leaders Session - Mastering the Art of Networking: Evaluating and Expanding Your Professional Connections
April 17 | 8:30 - 10:15 am
Networking is more than making connections; it’s about optimizing relationships to drive career and business growth. This session will guide participants in evaluating the strengths and gaps in their professional networks, providing strategies to address deficiencies and build meaningful new connections. Attendees will explore practical techniques for strengthening existing relationships and learn how to confidently manage their networks for maximum impact. By the end of this session, participants will have actionable tools to expand their professional reach and unlock opportunities for growth.
Victory Lap Celebration
April 17 | 3:00 - 4:30 pm
The Victory Lap Celebration caps off another successful NWFA Expo. Let's come together to honor Charlotte with lively entertainment, appetizers, and a selection of beverages that capture the best Charlotte has to offer.