This week on The Huddle, Paul, Daniel, and Jose take on a topic that affects every installer, business, and organization in the trade — training, certification, and standards. With more programs, credentials, and expectations than ever before, the question becomes: who decides what actually counts? In This Episode: The role certifications play in today’s flooring industry Where training adds value — and where it falls short Who sets industry standards (and why it matters) The balance between real-world experience and formal education What “qualified” should actually mean for installers and businesses Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about having credentials, it’s about proving your capability where it counts. Why This Episode Matters: At The Huddle Podcast, we believe Forward Progress comes from raising the standard — not just talking about it. ⬇️ Don’t miss our sponsors who help make The Huddle possible: 🔧 ShagTools.com Your go-to source for professional flooring tools, supplies, and accessories. 🛒 Use code HUDDLE10 for 10% off your first order! 👉 Shop ShagTools.com 🚀 Go Carrera Build your profile, prove your skills, and connect with contractors—all in one place. 👉 Learn more at GoCarrera.com 🛠️ Stubbi Tools by Preferred Flooring Installer-designed tools that work as hard as you do. 👉 Check out Stubbi Tools NAFCT NAFCT is a leading provider of flooring solutions, offering top-quality training, certifications, and support to elevate the industry. 👉 Learn more: https://www.nafct.com 🔹 Divergent Adhesives Innovative adhesive solutions crafted for performance and reliability in the flooring industry. 👉 Check them out: https://www.divergentadhesives.com 🔗 Meet all our sponsors & partners: https://thehuddle.team/sponsors Stay Connected & Join the Conversation! The Huddle Podcast is where the flooring industry comes together to connect, learn, and thrive! Recognized as the #1 podcast in the flooring community, we provide an unmatched platform for professionals to discuss everything from installation techniques to industry trends. At The Huddle, we’re all about driving Forward Progress—empowering seasoned installers, contractors, and flooring enthusiasts to grow, innovate, and lead in their craft. Whether you’re looking for real conversations, actionable insights, or inspiration to take your career to the next level, The Huddle is your home for real discussions that matter. Want to be a guest on The Huddle? Email forwardprogress@thehuddle.team We want to send a special shoutout to our sponsors! FloorCloudFloorCloud revolutionizes jobsite management with its cutting-edge platform, allowing contractors to remotely monitor ambient conditions like temperature and humidity in real-time. Paired with rugged sensors and instant mobile alerts, their technology ensures installations meet manufacturer specifications, reducing liability and enhancing quality control. Learn more at https://floorcloud.com Go CarreraCreate your FREE Installer profile at https://gocarrera.com and become part of the future of the industry TODAY!GET TRAINED! Find a list of training dates here: https://gocarrera.com/resources/training/ Preferred FlooringPreferred Flooring proudly introduces Stubbi Flooring Tools—designed by installers for installers. Stubbi tools are crafted for precision, durability, and ease of use, helping flooring professionals tackle any project with confidence. Explore the full Stubbi line at https://preferredflooringmi.com/stubbi Please visit our new website! https://thehuddle.team