The CFA is immensely proud to announce that the final three apprentices have been selected by our panel of judges. This annual award, has become a cornerstone of the flooring industry calendar, highlighting the remarkable achievements of apprentices while providing a platform to display the valuable skills they have gained through their training.
For participating employers, it is a chance to demonstrate their commitment to workforce development, investment in the next generation of skilled flooring installers, as well as of course by association their businesses.
Each year, we are impressed by the tremendous support for this initiative, from the quality of entries submitted by apprentices to the generous prizes donated by its sponsors. This year was no different with over thirty entries received from all over the UK. The competition shines a spotlight on the industry’s future, underlining the huge benefits of high-quality training. It also emphasises the critical role apprenticeships play in developing skilled installers and is an essential tool for inspiring the next wave of floorlayers.
But who are the finalists?
Jack Evans – Bakers Flooring Ltd
Jack is based in Wolverhampton and is an apprentice with CFA Members, Baker Flooring Ltd. Jack attends off the job training at the FITA Training Centre in Loughborough with the support of Webs Training Ltd, a leading training provider from the East Midlands.
The judges felt the overall submission was strong, with clear and detailed explanations of each stage and positive feedback from his employer and tutor. Jack was delighted to find out he had reached the final three and had the following to say.
“Making the final three is a surreal and incredibly proud moment for me. Being part of my family’s business makes this achievement even more meaningful, as it is not only a reflection of my own hard work, but also something that my family and grandparents are especially proud of. To be recognised as one of the final three is an amazing accomplishment, and the possibility of winning the award would be a rewarding recognition of all the time, dedication, and effort I have invested throughout my journey. It would also be a celebration of everyone who has supported, encouraged, and believed in me along the way, helping me reach the stage I am at today.”
Jay Howard – MacGregor Flooring Company Ltd
Jay is an apprentice with longstanding CFA Members MacGregor Flooring Company Ltd. Jay attends the CITB National Construction College in Inchinnan.
The judges were impressed by the quality of Jay’s case study, particularly the preparation and installation work evidenced, and they noted strong, positive feedback from your employer and tutor. When we informed Jay, he had made the final three he said.
“Being named as a finalist in the Flooring Apprentice of the Year is an incredible feeling and something I’m extremely proud of. To make the final three is a huge achievement and reflects the hard work, long hours, and dedication I’ve put into developing my skills and learning the trade. Competing alongside such talented apprentices makes the experience even more rewarding. Winning the title would mean everything to me, not only as recognition for the effort and passion I bring to flooring every day, but also as a massive step forward for my career and confidence within the industry. It would be an honour to represent the next generation of flooring installers and show what can be achieved through commitment, hard work, and a genuine love for the trade.”
Sam Shetliffe – Capital Flooring and Blinds
Sam is no stranger to the competition after entering last year and finishing a commendable second. Sam entered the competition again this year and has once again reached the final three. Sam has recently completed his apprenticeship with FITA and Webs Training Ltd and continues to learn and develop with his employer Capital Flooring and Blinds.
The judges note that Sam displayed a very high standard of workmanship, reflecting care and precision and professionalism in his work. His case study highlighted effective communication skills and positive engagement with colleagues on site. Sam had the following to say when he learnt he has made the final three.
“Winning Flooring Apprentice of the Year would mean a great deal to me as it would recognise the hard work, commitment, and passion I’ve put into developing my skills throughout my apprenticeship. I’ve worked hard to improve my knowledge, fitting ability, and customer service, always aiming to complete every job to a high standard. Receiving this award would make me proud of how far I’ve come, while also motivating me to continue progressing and building a successful career within the flooring industry.”
The competition is backed by superb support from our sponsors. The 1st place winner will receive a prize list that was valued at over £10,000 including cash donations, shopping vouchers and thousands of pounds worth of high-quality products, training days, tools, and equipment. 2nd and 3rd place apprentices will also receive prizes courtesy of sponsors too.
The winning apprentice will have the honour of attending the CFJ Flooring Industry Awards in September 2026, officially receiving recognition for their achievement alongside all other illustrious winners in front of an audience made up of the industry’s top flooring contractors, manufacturers, and distributors.
Once again there will be a live announcement of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prize-winners at the InstallerSHOW 2026 Exhibition on Wednesday 24th June, where the live reveal and prize giving will take place from the CFA & FITA stand, 4F37, at 1pm.
Shaun Wadsworth
CFA Training Manager
