2026 Surfaces Las Vegas

The 2026 Surfaces event in Las Vegas, Nevada, was a success. This event is the largest floorcovering event in the world; it gives us the chance to showcase the skills that our installers gain through union apprenticeship training. For those who don’t know, there is a main event called the Installer of the Year competition, where installers from all around the world compete at regionals, and the winners come to Las Vegas to see who is crowned the champion. There are usually 4 installers for the carpet category and 4 installers for the hard surface category. This year, Local 12 was represented by Hasan Basic, who competed in the hardwood category. Hasan was a champion for the LVP two years ago. This year, Hasan didn’t take it, but whoever makes it to this point is a  winner.

Another competition that takes place every year is the IUPAT apprentice competition, in which there are four finalists, one from each District Council: DC16, DC36, DC50, and DC5. District Council 16 was represented by Martin Alonso Dias, who is a third-year apprentice out of Reno, representing District Council 16, Martin won $2,000.00 plus tools; second place won $1,000.00 plus tools. 3^rd & 4^th place win $500.00 plus tools. The tools are donated by Roberts Tools, Milwaukee Tools, and Marshalltown tools. Next year, we would like to see more participation from our apprentices in this competition. Please get with the instructors to get more information.