From manufacturing to retail to distribution, we’ve named 40 women in flooring who are at the top of their field. They are accomplishing incredible things in the industry and provide inspiration to other women looking to enter the industry.
Maryanne Adams president/CEO, Avalon Flooring
With over 30 years of experience in the flooring industry, Maryanne Adams became the president and CEO of Avalon Flooring in 2008. She built Avalon Flooring to be the ninth-largest retailer in the U.S. with her dynamic can-do attitude and loyal employees by her side. As an employee-owned organization, Adams has been instrumental in leading the growth of the company into 17 retail locations across Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. Leading with a culture that focuses on employee’s first and a leadership style focused on not being afraid of change and finding non-typical solutions when issues arise, she has molded Avalon Flooring into what it is today. Adams is devoted to Avalon Flooring and to mentoring the next generation of industry leaders. She is a champion for women and an example of fearless leadership.
Cheryl Acierno owner, Acierno & Company
Cheryl Acierno has been engaged in the floor covering industry for her entire career, owning Acierno & Company for the past 21 years. As a Starnet member since 2002, she has served on the board of directors, becoming the first woman ever elected to the board, where she also served as board secretary and was eventually appointed to board chairman. In addition to the commercial business, which is still the core of the company, Acierno & Company has also established both residential and maintenance divisions. The company has grown from a two-person office to a staff of more than 20. Acierno attributes much of the success of her company to her ability to attract and retain top talent, and the company boasts an exceptional team of dedicated individuals committed to her vision. Up until the pandemic, the company has experienced double-digit growth annually since its inception and expects to finish 2021 at pre-pandemic levels.
Betsy Amoroso chief of staff, office of the CEO, Mannington Mills
Betsy Amoroso’s approach to her work is to lead by example and to do it with a smile. Amoroso joined Mannington in 2002 as public relations manager and, over the years, has been promoted through a variety of roles—including director of residential marketing—before landing in her current position. During that time, she was instrumental in the initial launch of several product lines and managed Mannington’s Surfaces presence for over eight years. She has served on the board of trustees for companies like Meals on Wheels of Salem County, the United Way of Delaware, Stand Up for Salem and has been instrumental in Mannington’s partnership development efforts with Habitat for Humanity and the Gary Sinise R.I.S.E. Foundation.
Erin Appleman president retail, marketing and merchandising, Rite Rug
Erin Appleman has helped steer the ship of one of the largest independent flooring leaders in the country for more than three and a half decades. She has climbed the ladder since 1990 to reach her current position of president retail, marketing and merchandising, and has done more for the independent retail channel than many others can claim. She is a steadfast leader that many in her field would do well to look up to.
Laura Bartley vice president of customer loyalty and rewards, Mohawk Flooring
Laura Bartley leads strategies that strengthen customer engagement, drive brand loyalty and create meaningful connections between Mohawk and its retail partners. With a career built on strategic marketing, communications, public relations, events and customer experience, Bartley is known for transforming ideas into programs that deliver measurable business results while reinforcing long-term relationships. She is passionate about helping customers succeed and believes that listening, innovation and collaboration are the foundation of lasting growth. She has also championed partnerships with organizations such as Susan G. Komen and Tunnel to Towers.
Andrea Blackbourn executive director, FCIF
Helping flooring employees through their darkest days—that is what Andrea Blackbourn focuses on each day. Blessed with an amazing combination of boundless energy, non-profit expertise and limitless passion, she has taken the reins of the Floor Covering Industry Foundation and made a dramatic difference. Since being appointed as executive director in 2016, she has elevated the organization’s relevance and more than increased the non-profit’s revenue and impact to individuals exponentially. Her 17-year career in philanthropy and marketing includes previous roles at United Way. A cancer survivor herself, Blackbourn is especially enthusiastic about FCIF’s mission to help flooring families who are battling catastrophic illnesses, disabilities and injuries.
Dori Blitzstein vice president, Roesel-Heck Co.
Dori Blitzstein and her husband, Rob, are owner-operators of their Maryland-based distributorship Roesel-Heck and involved in every aspect of the company. Dori travels with her sales team to see customers, goes on the road with her specifications rep to meet architects and designers, pulls inventory and picks up the phone to take orders. She has even learned how to drive a forklift. Her and Rob’s philosophy is simple: Cultivate relationships and effectively manage expectations with suppliers/vendors while going above and beyond to service clients. Dori is also a former president of NAFCD and current board member for Women in the Floorcovering Industry.
Lisa Browning executive director, National Floorcovering Alliance
Lisa Browning grew up just outside of Dalton. Her floor covering career started as the credit and claims manager at Interloom Mills located there. Her roles continued to grow from there, including a stop at Abbey Carpet and Floor, until in 2006 Browning joined the National Floorcovering Alliance (NFA) as executive director, where she remains today. Browning has said the best part of her job is working with NFA members, witnessing first-hand the passion they have about their businesses and their willingness to share with each other.
Allie Bruski vice president of marketing and design, Milliken
There are few in the industry that can tout the kind of experience that Allie Bruski can. A fourth-generation leader in flooring, Bruski began her career in flooring at the ripe old age of 11, filling online sample requests for Anderson Hardwood. Over time, Bruski has held esteemed positions at some of the largest manufacturers in the industry. Today, she is spearheading marketing and product design at Milliken, a powerhouse in the flooring industry.
Ashlie Butler president, Bob’s Carpet & Flooring
As Bob’s Carpet & Flooring approaches its 60th anniversary, Ashlie Butler is leading the company toward that diamond milestone as its third-generation leader. Overseeing 17 locations, Butler continues her family’s legacy while guiding the business through an ever-changing market. Serving both residential and commercial customers throughout Tampa Bay and Central Florida, the company has weathered its share of challenges—including the pandemic, when Butler helped ensure that the business remained a trusted resource for its community. Today, Bob’s Carpet continues to thrive under her steady leadership.
Anne-Marie Cowart senior vice president, Shaw Flooring Network
Anne-Marie Cowart has one of the longest-running tenures of anyone in the industry—especially at a single company. She joined Shaw in 2001 as regional operations manager and from there held various roles that only helped strengthen Shaw along the way. Today, she boasts 25 years at the company and some of the most impressive experience of any executive in the space. There are few who don’t know Cowart, and the industry would do well to keep their eye on what she brings to the table next.
Deb DeGraaf owner, DeGraaf Interiors
Since starting with her dad 25 years ago and as one of the owners of DeGraaf Interiors, Deb DeGraaf has had the opportunity to wear many different hats—from assisting homeowners with product selection to working as a support system for employees. In 2016, DeGraaf Interiors joined the National Floorcovering Alliance (NFA), which has had a great impact on the business through the priceless relationships and best business practices she has been able to learn from and share. She has also served as chair of the World Floor Covering Association and Floor Covering Education Foundation.
Lauren Delée business development manager IP, Unilin Technologies
Lauren Delée jumped into her role at Unilin at the start of the pandemic, but she hit the ground running and never looked back. Among her responsibilities are helping companies select and implement the appropriate locking system and manage relationships with licensees and industry partners. She also educates the market about the differences in locking systems. She has embraced this industry with both hands and proven her leadership is incomparable.
Jackie Dettmar vice president of marketing, design and product development, Mohawk Group
With more than 30 years of diverse experience in the flooring sector, Jackie Dettmar is a proven leader who drives design, sustainable innovation and operational excellence. A true industry trailblazer, she began her career by joining Karastan as the first female manufacturing management trainee ever. This foundational manufacturing background, combined with her perspective as a “creative scientist,” enables her to develop innovative commercial flooring solutions that protect environmental resources and human wellbeing. Leading a 150-person team, Dettmar champions an inspiring, diverse workplace while crafting world-class products and experiences.
Tina Keeton Emery director of business development, Versatrim
With 23 years in the flooring industry, Tina Keeton Emery has been a driving force behind Versatrim’s growth, innovation and customer-first culture. She is a trusted brand ambassador whose integrity, strategic vision and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned the respect of customers, colleagues and industry partners alike. She is the voice of the customer within Versatrim, helping shape product innovation while cultivating lasting relationships with retailers, distributors and manufacturers. Keeton Emery played a pivotal role in expanding Versatrim’s portfolio through the integration of Artistic Finishes, transforming the company into a true one-source provider for floor moldings, stair treads, accessories, hardware and solid wood solutions. She continually inspires those around her through mentorship, collaboration and an exceptional work ethic.
Amie Gilmore director, Informa Markets
Amie Gilmore has been the driving force behind The International Surface Event (TISE) for more than two and a half decades. Gilmore’s impact on TISE has been nothing short of extraordinary. She masterfully orchestrates an annual trade show that draws more than 20,000 attendees, managing everything from venue contracts and floor planning to marketing strategies and sales management. Her comprehensive understanding of the flooring, stone and tile industries, combined with her natural ability to build lasting relationships with exhibitors, partners and media has been instrumental in TISE’s continued success.
Carolyn Haicl senior vice president of marketing and brands, Shaw Industries
Carolyn Haicl is a brand builder. With her vast experience with venerable brands like Electrolux and Dr. Scholl’s, she is shaping one of the industry’s largest suppliers and its brand portfolio—Shaw Floors, COREtec, Anderson Tuftex and Philadelphia Commercial. She is doing that by focusing on the industry’s independent retail community, building stronger relationships to help drive better business.
Laurel Hurd president/CEO, Interface
Laurel Hurd leads the company’s strategic vision and drives growth. Hurd is responsible for accelerating the overall Interface global business, developing top talent and high-performing teams, driving a customer-centered philosophy and delivering on Interface’s mission to become a carbon negative enterprise by 2040. She was named CEO in April 2022. A results-driven leader, Hurd brings 30 years of sales management, product development and brand stewardship experience to Interface. She has a proven track record of driving profitable growth through innovation and global expansion and is regarded by her teams and co
Danielle Hunsicker COO, Diverzify
Over a 20-year career spanning leadership roles at PPG Industrial Coatings, Dal-Tile and Ardex Americas, Danielle Hunsicker has become one of the most respected operators in the flooring industry. Since joining Diverzify in 2022, she’s played a pivotal role in growing the company into the nation’s largest commercial flooring and interior solutions provider, known for her strategic thinking and operational excellence. Beyond her impressive career, Hunsicker is a genuine advocate for women in flooring through her work with WIFI and her mentoring of others.
Laetitia Kimblad director, flooring technology, Välinge
Laetitia Kimblad blends materials engineering, product innovation and customer-focused technology development with a strong market perspective and proven ability to turn new technologies into successful products. She is responsible for driving and coordinating the development and commercialization of next-gen flooring technologies. This includes advancing the company’s portfolio of high-performing locking systems as well as the strategic development of core innovations such as Liteback, Woodura and Wood Powder Laminate. Under her leadership, the company has introduced installation technologies that deliver features such as enhanced watertightness, increased robustness and simplified installation of flooring patterns.
Jan Luan owner/president, SLCC
Jan Luan founded SLCC in 2010 in the U.S. utilizing factories she owned overseas. At the time, she completely built the company from the ground up—from design and marketing to creating a sales team to opening a distribution facility. Over time, the company has expanded into a globally recognized brand by offering a diverse portfolio of products and price points. SLCC continues to strengthen the relationships and reputation Luan helped to build within the industry, which remain the pillars of its success.
Whitney LeGate senior vice president, commercial product, Mannington
Few in the commercial space can say they don’t know Whitney Le- Gate. Her 27-year tenure at Mannington has paved the way for her true expertise to shine. She has held various positions but has shined on the commercial side of the business for nearly a decade—and it shows. Few are as knowledgeable about the industry and as free with their insights as Whitney. She is a true leader in this industry.
Julie Foster Leigh director of marketing, Novalis
Novalis Innovative Flooring is just over 40 years old, and Julie Foster Leigh has been on the team for half of that time. One of its true steadfast supporters she continues to lead with her heart and her finger on the pulse of the industry. She’s built a relationship-first career that has only thrived in this industry.
Marlene Morin senior director of floor coverings, Sika
Marlene Morin leads the team that develops and sells Sika’s tile-setting materials, floor covering adhesives and surface-preparation products. Her two decades with Sika provide valuable insight for the company’s premier floor covering installation materials brands. Morin nurtured a reputation in the U.S. market as a customer-first leader, devoting a large portion of her time to working in the field and strengthening Sika’s partnerships.
Kelly Oberschlake vice president of sales, national accounts, Mohawk
With nearly 30 years of industry experience, Kelly Oberschlake has held various positions within Mohawk, including director of sales operations, where her sales forecasting skills and strategic growth plans were recognized and she quickly moved up the ladder to become senior director of residential sales, managing sales, communications and relationships for Mohawk’s partnership with Lowe’s.
In her current position, she leads national programs and customer relations where her managerial and liaison expertise is highly valued. Oberschlake has been honored with prestigious awards such as vendor of the year and partner of the year.
Stephanie Owen president/CEO, NWFA
Stephanie Owen was named president and CEO in 2025 after joining the organization a decade earlier. In those 10 years, Owen has held a variety of roles, including education and member engagement director, vice president of education and executive director of the Education and Research Foundation. Her deep understanding of the wood flooring industry make her an invaluable part of the NWFA team. During her time at NWFA, Owen has strengthened the association, helped advance the wood flooring industry and supported members and staff in meaningful and impactful ways. She has also dedicated a lot of focus in the development of NWFA’s online university as well as its inaugural Leadership Development Summit.
Celine Quervel managing director, Classen Group
Celine Quervel is blending heritage with innovation. As a third-generation leader of Classen—one of Germany’s flooring pioneers—she’s bringing fresh energy to a company over six decades old. Classen, once known for its global laminate dominance, has now expanded into cutting-edge PVC-free flooring (Ceramin), and Quervel is leading this evolution. Under 30, she’s already making waves—traveling worldwide and infusing the business with forward-looking strategies and guiding Classen into a modern era, ensuring it remains both relevant and bold on the international stage.
Olga Robertson president, FCA Network
Olga Robertson, the only female president of a retail buying group in the industry, has been with FCA Network since its inception in 1998. She has a reputation as one of the toughest negotiators in the industry, advocating for her members on all things. For the group, Robertson is steadfast in her belief that the FCA Network helps support her retail members through extraordinary buying power, partnership and individualized branding. Over nearly three decades, she has helped push FCA Network into the future with new programs and campaigns focused on building business and drawing younger entrepreneurs into the industry, growing the group’s membership and much more. Robertson’s influence continues to reach far and wide.
Allison Rea vice president of marketing, FEI Group
Allison Rea joined the FEI Group almost 25 years ago and today specializes in brand building and strategy, website strategy and development, search engine optimization, email marketing, business development and more. She is being recognized because of her commitment, dedication and selflessness. Rea has been an invaluable resource, guide and sounding board for the FEI Group membership over the course of her career. Her willingness to learn, adapt readily to change and devotion to her teammates helped her carve a unique path in this industry.
Jenne Ross product director, Karndean Designflooring
Jenne Ross has spent more than a decade helping to shape not only Karndean’s product design and direction but helping to strengthen the company’s relationships with its independent retail partners. In fact, it’s hard to find another supplier of Karndean’s caliber— not only in product creation but in customer service. Flooring retail owners across the country continuously tout Karndean’s level of personal care, and much of that comes down to Ross’ unmatched leadership.
Amy Rush-Imber editor in chief, Floor Covering Weekly
Amy Rush-Imber has spent her career in publishing in the home interior space. For more than a decade, she has directed FCW’s content and helped develop FCW’s custom content programs. She helped lead the magazine redesign and continues to be a steward of the flooring industry, attending as many events as almoast anyone. Prior to Floor Covering Weekly, Rush-Imber owned a creative consulting firm for several years contracting with home furnishings companies for communications and public relations.
Tressa Samdal senior director of marketing & product management, Florida Tile
Tressa Samdal is a known entity in the flooring industry, having brought her enthusiastic leadership to some of the best brands in the business. Today she’s revitalizing Florida Tile, infusing fresh ideas, strong professionalism and energy that drives meaningful change. Since joining the company’s leadership team, she has made a significant impact through her vision, creativity and strategic approach to marketing and product development. Most importantly, Samdal’s enthusiasm and commitment inspire those around her, while her professionalism and leadership continue to raise industry standards.
Kristen Stensby co-founder, Showroom Pricing
In January 2020, just before the height of the pandemic, Kristen Stensby launched a game-changing technology that promised to ease some of the burdens of the independent flooring retailer. One of those burdens was price changes. Little did she know the technology would be a game changer during a time when price changes became the new normal. Since then, Stensby has continued to innovate and bring new technologies to the independent retailer that not only help them run their businesses but grow them as well.
Maud Swalens marketing director, COREtec
As an original member of the USFloors team, Maud Swalens was instrumental in creating the identity around the force that is COREtec. Today, as director of marketing, Swalens works tirelessly making COREtec more meaningful to its customers. Her deep knowledge and historical perspective of the brand, coupled with her excitement for its evolution, is a contagious spirit that’s felt every day at Shaw. Swalens isn’t just passionate about COREtec; she is a selfless and committed community and corporate volunteer, leading initiatives such as Shaw’s True North mentorship program for women early in their careers. She also serves as an Education Member and co-chair of Shaw’s WiN (Womens Innovation Network) Associate Resource Group.
Lauren Voit co-owner, Great Western Flooring, Naperville, Ill.
Lauren Voit has made a significant impact since taking on the role of president in 2015. Under her leadership and that of her sister, Dana Park, they achieved remarkable success. Voit is also a mother, a millennial and the youngest person to hold the position of chairperson at World Floor Covering Association (WFCA). Voit joined the WFCA in 2018 and swiftly rose through the ranks. She is passionate about the industry and the people who rely on it for their livelihood.
Reid Waxman director of dealer operations, Leap Tools
An unsung hero in the flooring industry, Reid Waxman oversees the company’s relationship with independent flooring dealers. She also co-hosts Roomvo University, a monthly webinar series, and also sits on the NAFCD board. Reid is also active in the Women of the Floor Covering Industry. Whether she’s traveling across the country to meet new and potential clients or working hard to make sure an existing customer has the tools he or she need to be successful, Reid is an immoveable force of progress in an industry slow to embrace technology. And she does it all with the retailer at heart.
Kaye Whitener executive director, FCEF
Kaye Whitener has early childhood memories playing hide and seek among the carpet rolls in her dad’s warehouse. She grew up in the floor covering industry developing both a strong commercial background and a highly successful retail career prior to joining the WFCA. As a female, it’s not always easy working in this industry; however, with applied determination (and her mother’s stubbornness) she has developed a successful career that continues to teach her new lessons after 38 years. Whitener was the first employee the Floor Covering Education Foundation hired and is an invaluable asset to its work developing pathways for a new generation to enter this industry. Her passion and drive for the foundation’s mission are truly what is needed to make a difference.
Christine Zampaglione VP of marketing, Stanton Design
Christine Zampaglione has played an instrumental role in helping shape and elevate the Stanton brand during a transformative period for its organization. As vice president of marketing, she has brought a clear strategic vision, creativity and an unwavering commitment to innovation that has strengthened Stanton’s position within the flooring industry. From leading key rebranding initiatives to enhancing the company’s product storytelling, digital presence and overall customer experience, Zampaglione has helped modernize how Stanton connects with both consumers and retail partners. She has made a lasting impact not only on Stanton, but also within the flooring industry through her forward-thinking approach and dedication to excellence.
Michele Zelman public relations
For the past 30 years, Michelle Zelman has spearheaded public relations, first for Armstrong’s flooring division and now for AHF Products. Her goal has always been simple: help flooring brands tell their stories, strengthen their reputations and create opportunities for growth. Her approach to PR has never been about getting headlines; rather, it’s about earning trust. Zelman helps clients tell authentic stories that resonate with customers while honoring the legacy of iconic brands like Armstrong Flooring and Bruce. What sets her apart is experience, a commitment to service and a focus on creating meaningful communication—not just publicity.
Jennifer Zimmerman chief commercial officer, AHF Products
Jennifer Zimmerman drives commercial strategy at AHF Products, leading growth, brand development and customer expansion with a strong foundation in legal expertise and business leadership. Since joining as general counsel during the company’s formation, she has helped double its customer base and grow the brand portfolio to 14. A proven leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry, she brings a kind spirit and unmatched thought leadership to the industry.
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Boston–Twenty-five years and $9 million later, Mohawk last month celebrated its partnership with the Susan G. Komen Foundation by once again “Cushioning the Fight” here at the first of four “3-Days” in 2026.
