Hardwood Floors December 2024/January 2025

15. Michael Howick Owner Maverick Hardwood Floors OMAHA, NE

17. Mike Kinney Logistics Coordinator Derr Flooring Co. OLYPHANT, PA

Though Michael Howick had been a steel worker, when the recession hit, he quickly found his plans to be a welder had gone by the wayside. He eventually found a job working on floors and fell in love with the trade. With more than a decade of experience in the field, Howick has founded a successful small business, providing high-quality flooring services to the

community. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence have made a significant impact. He has shown a deep dedication to the profession’s future by establishing an apprenticeship program for hardwood flooring in Omaha, Nebraska. This program has not only provided valuable training and mentorship to aspiring professionals, but also has helped ensure the flooring industry’s continued growth and development. Howick is an actively involved church member and has six kids, which he says ensures he never has a dull moment.

Derr Flooring Co. opened its doors more than 100 years ago. Since then, the flooring distribution company has grown significantly, with seven warehouses across four states. It remains a family business, with Mike Kinney as part of the fifth generation operating Derr Flooring today. Since joining the company in 2014, Kinney has become a jack of all trades, contributing in various capacities within the business. His roles have included working inside the office, serving as a delivery driver, and operating in the warehouse. His versatility and dedication exemplify the family’s dedication to maintaining and growing Derr Flooring's legacy. Kinney recently assisted in building a U.S. Veterans Memorial in Greenfield Township, Pennsylvania. The memorial features the names of past and present veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice. His dedication to this project reflects his commitment to supporting the community and honoring our nation’s heroes.

16. Jon Jarvis Director of Operations Footprints Floors GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO

Jon Jarvis has been pivotal in Footprints Floors’ nationwide growth and expansion. Serving as the initial point of contact for new franchisees, he has successfully onboarded and facilitated the training of more than 100 individuals. A key achievement in his career has been the creation of

Footprints University, a training program developed in partnership with the NWFA and NTCA. This program ensures that every new franchisee receives comprehensive and rigorous training before launching their business. Additionally, he oversees and facilitates ongoing education for Footprints Floors members, enabling them to obtain advanced certifications and continuously enhance their skills. Jarvis has been the driving force behind First Fruits, the charitable wing of Footprints Floors, and coordinates monetary donations and volunteer efforts. Under his leadership, First Fruits has established partnerships with various non-profit organizations, including Hope's Promise, which focuses on adoption, orphan and foster care, and Open Door Ministries, which addresses poverty and community building in Denver.

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