Universal Metro recognized in LA Business Journal's Best Places to Work 2025

Honored Again: Universal Metro Recognized as L.A. Top Workplaces in 2025

Posted by Jacqueline Dumbrille on September 2, 2025

Universal Metro recognized once again as one of Los Angeles’ Best Places to Work for 2025 by the Los Angeles Business Journal.

Understanding the Award

The Los Angeles Business Journal, in partnership with Workforce Research Group, compiles its “Best Places to Work” list through a rigorous evaluation process. This includes a comprehensive company assessment focusing on policies, benefits, and overall workplace culture, complemented by an anonymous employee survey that gauges team members’ real-life experiences and satisfaction across various categories such as leadership, communication, and engagement. The combination of these evaluations ensures a holistic understanding of each company’s work environment.

What This Means to Universal Metro

For UMI, this accolade is more than just an award; it’s a testament to the company’s dedication to its employees and the values that drive its success. CEO Dave Triepke emphasizes that leadership at UMI is not merely a title but a responsibility. This mindset, coupled with a commitment to values like humility, curiosity, and accountability, propels the company forward.

“Universal Metro recognized as one of LA’s Best Places to Work for 2025 is a huge honor for us,” said Triepke. “It validates the hard work and dedication our team brings every day. Our employees are the backbone of our success, and we are proud to be a company that offers a workplace where they can thrive.”

Leadership’s Commitment to Employee Engagement

Sheila Kennedy, who serves as President of UMI, reflects on the significance of this recognition:

“We are extremely honored to share a workspace with like-minded individuals who are ‘ideal team players.’ The nomination begins with an anonymous survey of our employees’ experience — and we are grateful they feel we’re creating something worth celebrating.”

Core Values That Shape Universal Metro’s Culture

At Universal Metro, the company’s values play a significant role in creating a positive workplace culture. The company’s core values—Humble, Hungry, and Smart—serve as guiding principles for employees in every department. By fostering an environment where these values are consistently upheld, Universal Metro ensures that employees are empowered to collaborate, innovate, and push boundaries.

Humility drives the company’s approach to teamwork, encouraging employees to work together, support one another, and always remain open to feedback. The “Hungry” value emphasizes a desire for continuous learning and improvement, while “Smart” focuses on making strategic, well-informed decisions that contribute to the company’s long-term success. These core values form the foundation of the culture at Universal Metro, where employees feel not just like workers, but vital members of a larger mission.

Looking Toward the Future

As Universal Metro continues to grow and expand its reach, the company remains committed to fostering a work environment where its employees can succeed and thrive. Universal Metro recognized as one of LA’s Best Places to Work in 2025 is a testament to the company’s commitment to its people and its unwavering belief that a positive workplace culture is essential to long-term success.

“We are proud of what we’ve accomplished, but this award is just one step in our journey,” said Triepke. “We’ll continue to prioritize our employees’ well-being and work to build a company that supports their professional and personal growth.”

A Bright Future for Universal Metro

Universal Metro recognized as one of LA’s Best Places to Work for 2025 further solidifies its position as a leader in the commercial flooring industry. The company’s ability to attract and retain top talent, while maintaining a high level of employee satisfaction, ensures that it will continue to thrive in the years ahead. Whether through its commitment to teamwork, its core values, or its transparent leadership, Universal Metro has proven that investing in its people is the key to its success.

Universal Metro Where leaders grow. Clients win. And integrity isn’t optional—it’s who we are.

2025 Starnet grand prize winning project

Universal Metro Takes Home Grand Prize at 2025 Starnet Design Awards

Posted by Jacqueline Dumbrille on June 4, 2025

April 25, 2025 — Santa Fe Springs, CA

We’re thrilled to share that Universal Metro, Inc. was awarded the Grand Prize at the 2025 Starnet Design Awards for our work on the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort project. This incredible honor was announced at the Starnet Annual Meeting in Carlsbad, CA, where top flooring contractors from across the country came together to celebrate the year’s best in commercial flooring design and installation.

Winning the top award is a proud moment for our team—but more than anything, it’s a reflection of the strong collaboration, thoughtful design, and attention to detail that went into bringing this beautiful resort project to life.

“We’re humbled and grateful to receive the Grand Prize this year,” said Dave Triepke, CEO of Universal Metro. “This recognition speaks volumes about the teamwork behind the scenes—from our installation crews to our project partners. We’re honored to contribute to such a meaningful transformation at Murrieta Hot Springs.”

The Murrieta Hot Springs Resort grand prize winning project was a unique opportunity to blend historical preservation with modern wellness-focused design. Our flooring installation played a key role in achieving that balance, helping create a welcoming, tranquil environment that honors the site’s storied past while supporting its future as a top-tier destination.

Now in its 27th year, the Starnet Design Awards celebrate excellence in commercial flooring across a variety of industries. Projects are judged on creativity, technical skill, and overall impact—and competition is always strong.

We’re honored to have our work recognized among such inspiring projects, and we want to thank the entire team who helped bring this vision to life. From our client and design partners to our hardworking staff on the ground, this grand prize award belongs to all of you.

Promotions: Universal Metro Names Sheila Kennedy as President and Scott Arendt as Vice President.

Posted by Universal Metro on November 12, 2024 with 1 Comment

Santa Fe Springs, CA, October 12, 2023 – Promotion News: CEO Dave Triepke has named Sheila Kennedy President of Universal Metro, Inc. (UMI) and Scott Arendt Vice President. “The promotions will help UMI focus on bigger target initiatives and goals”, according to Triepke.

Sheila Kennedy’s promotion to President is a move that marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and evolution. Since joining UMI in January 2016 as a Project Engineer, and later serving as Director of Operations beginning in 2018, Sheila has been instrumental in transforming operational processes, improving efficiency, and scaling the company’s capabilities to meet increasing demand. Her leadership has helped lay the foundation for UMI’s sustained success.

With a unique blend of field experience and executive insight, Sheila brings a deep understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of the business. Her previous tenure at Zickel Flooring in Missouri—where she gained experience across Accounting, Estimating, and Project Management—has given her a well-rounded perspective that continues to benefit UMI. As President, Sheila will focus on aligning the company’s long-term vision with day-to-day execution, strengthening cross-departmental collaboration, and enhancing the culture of accountability and innovation. Her promotion is a testament to her leadership and a promising step forward for Universal Metro’s future.

Arendt arrived at UMI in November 2016 as the Director of Sales and Business Development. Since joining, he’s established himself as a trusted partner for vendors and sophisticated buyers and has built a robust network that provides business development opportunities on both regional and national levels.

Arndt’s promotion to Vice President will further strengthen UMI’s strategic direction, leveraging his proven leadership and deep industry relationships to drive growth and enhance client partnerships. His vision and experience will play a critical role in expanding UMI’s presence and reinforcing its reputation for excellence.

Prior to UMI, Scott worked as a Senior Executive in Sales and Marketing for Mr. David’s Flooring International (now Diverzify) in Illinois for over 12 years.

Inside Universal Metro’s Bold Pivot: Dave Triepke Talks Growth, Specialization, and Project Excellence

Posted by Jacqueline Dumbrille on October 25, 2024

Original broadcast August 16, 2022—Dave Triepke, shares insight into Universal Metro’s bold pivot and evolving business strategy to sharpen focus within the competitive and fast-changing Los Angeles market.

The conversation illuminated a deliberate shift away from residential and smaller-scale flooring installations, moving instead toward a more strategic alignment with high-impact commercial projects—particularly within healthcare, education, and public infrastructure sectors.

Triepke emphasize this bold pivot is both a response to industry trends and a proactive strategy rooted in Universal Metro’s core strengths. “Our value is in our ability to handle complexity,” he stated. “From infection control protocols in active hospitals to coordinating around accelerated school construction timelines, these projects demand a level of expertise and accountability that our team is built to deliver.”

As Los Angeles continues to invest in capital improvements—whether through public works, healthcare facility expansions, or LEED-certified educational spaces—Universal Metro is positioning itself not just as an installer, but as a collaborative partner in the design-build ecosystem. Triepke noted that the company is increasingly brought in during pre-construction phases to help identify product solutions, assess logistics, and deliver technical recommendations that reduce risk and increase value for the client.

“Our goal is to be more than a subcontractor,” Triepke explained. “We aim to be a trusted advisor to general contractors, architects, and designers who are navigating tight budgets, complex specs, and aggressive schedules.”

The interview also touches on workforce development, sustainability in materials, and the importance of technology integration for jobsite transparency and efficiency. With Los Angeles as one of the most dynamic and demanding commercial markets in the country, Universal Metro’s bold move reflects not just an internal pivot, but a deeper commitment to advancing quality, innovation, and collaboration across the construction landscape.

To listen to the full interview on Universal Metro’s bold pivot, visit FloorDaily.net and search for “Dave Triepke – Universal Metro.

graduates of Eco-Grip certification at UMI

Elevating Standards with Eco-Grip Certified Training

Posted by Universal Metro on August 27, 2024

Raising the Standard: Universal Metro Invests in Elite Eco-Grip Certification

Eco-Grip is rapidly gaining recognition as a top-tier commercial flooring solution, particularly within the food service, healthcare, and health & wellness sectors. Built to withstand demanding environments, the product combines performance, safety, and sustainability, making it a compelling choice for clients seeking reliable, long-term value. As more organizations look for flooring options that align with sustainability goals, Eco-Grip stands out—crafted from 98% recycled materials, it supports green building practices without sacrificing durability or ease of maintenance.

At Universal Metro, we recognize that great materials are only as good as the people installing them. That’s why we’ve prioritized the education and certification of our labor force—especially with specialty products like Eco-Grip, where proper installation is critical to performance. While it is a seamless flooring system known for its clean aesthetic and watertight surface, the installation process requires specific technical knowledge and precision. Mistakes in preparation or bonding can lead to long-term issues, which is why manufacturer-approved training is essential.

This year, Universal Metro proudly hosted two hands-on training events, each designed to equip our field installers with the skills and certification needed to meet manufacturer standards. These sessions included:

Substrate prep and moisture control techniques specific to the product’s adhesive and bonding process
Heat welding and seam detailing for a seamless, hygienic finish
Best practices for floor layout, wall integration, and perimeter termination
Safety training specific to occupied spaces like kitchens and healthcare environments
Troubleshooting common site issues and understanding warranty conditions

Led by certified Eco-Grip trainers and supported by our own experienced supervisors, nearly two dozen UMI installers have now earned their qualifications, expanding our ability to serve clients across Southern California and beyond with confidence and speed.

Whether you’re planning a hospitality kitchen renovation, upgrading a rehab facility, or building out a fitness studio, our team is now fully equipped to deliver on the performance promise of Eco-Grip.

To learn more about this innovative product—or to schedule a site consultation

—contact Universal Metro at (562) 906-8484.

transform your future at UMI Best-Places-to-Work-2024

Universal Metro Named One of LA’s Best Places to Work in 2024

Posted by Universal Metro on August 26, 2024

Ranked #7 Small Business Best Place to Work by the LA Business Journal

At Universal Metro, our mission has always extended beyond floors — it’s about building a culture rooted in integrity, leadership, and shared purpose. That’s why we’re honored to share that we’ve been named of of LA’s Best Places to Work For in Los Angeles by the Los Angeles Business Journal.

This marks our third consecutive year making the list, and each year it becomes even more meaningful. To be recognized not just for what we do, but for how we work together, is the kind of validation that reminds us we’re moving in the right direction.

What the Award Means

Every year, the Los Angeles Business Journal, in partnership with Workforce Research Group, compiles its “Best Places to Work” list by evaluating companies through two primary lenses:

A detailed company assessment focused on policies, benefits, and overall workplace culture.
An anonymous employee survey that measures team members’ real-life experiences and satisfaction across categories like leadership, communication, and engagement.

The process is comprehensive and honest — and we wouldn’t want it any other way. We’re proud that our team’s feedback played the biggest role in earning this distinction.

A Message from Our Leadership

When we received news of the award, our leadership team reflected on what truly made this possible:

“We are extremely honored to share a workspace with like-minded individuals who are ‘ideal team players,’”
“The nomination begins with an anonymous survey of our employees’ experience — and we are grateful they feel we’re creating something worth celebrating.”

At Universal Metro, we live by a simple truth: leadership isn’t a title — it’s a responsibility. That mindset, coupled with our commitment to values like humility, curiosity, and accountability, is what drives our workplace forward.

Why Universal Metro Stands Out

This recognition isn’t about perks or ping-pong tables — it’s about people, purpose, and progress. Here are a few ways our culture sets us apart:

1. We Build Leaders

From field apprentices to seasoned estimators, every team member has a pathway to grow. We invest in training, mentorship, and opportunities that challenge and empower individuals to lead with confidence.

2. We Live Our Values

Our hiring and team development are guided by three traits we hold dear: Humble. Hungry. Smart. These values show up in how we treat each other, solve problems, and engage with our clients.

3. We Collaborate Constantly

No silos here. Whether it’s estimating, project management, or on-site installation, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Questions are welcomed, wins are shared, and challenges are tackled as a team.

What Our Team Says

While the employee survey was anonymous, the feedback we’ve received internally continues to reinforce what we aim to build every day:

“I feel seen here.”
“Growth isn’t just a buzzword — it’s real.”
“We solve problems together, not in isolation.”

These statements reflect not just satisfaction, but trust — and that means everything to us.

Looking Ahead: Grateful, Not Complacent

This award is not our destination — it’s a milestone on a much bigger journey. We’re inspired to:

Continue listening to our team and improving the experience from within.
Expand our support for personal and professional growth.
Maintain a culture where accountability and kindness go hand in hand.

As we grow, we stay grounded in the belief that our people are our greatest asset — and their feedback, our greatest tool for improvement.

Thank You

To the Los Angeles Business Journal and the Workforce Research Group, thank you for this recognition and the thoughtful evaluation process.

To our employees — thank you for being the heart and soul of Universal Metro. Your passion, grit, and commitment to doing the right thing make our company what it is.

And to our clients and partners — thank you for trusting us, challenging us, and collaborating with us every step of the way. This recognition reflects what we’re building with you, not just for you.

Unstoppable Performance: Why We Use the Blastrac BMG-2200 for Large-Scale Projects

Posted by Universal Metro on May 11, 2023

Power Meets Precision: Blastrac BMG-2200 is our Go-To for Large-Scale Projects

When you’re tackling surface prep and polishing on projects over 10,000 square feet, efficiency, consistency, and quality aren’t just preferences—they’re requirements. That’s why Universal Metro Inc. relies on the Blastrac BMG-2200, a ride-on, planetary grinder built specifically for high-output performance.

What Is the Blastrac BMG-2200?

The BMG-2200 is a powerful, self-propelled grinding and polishing machine equipped with a dual-drive planetary system. Unlike walk-behind grinders, this ride-on unit is designed to tackle large surfaces faster, with more consistent results and less operator fatigue. It’s ideal for expansive commercial environments like:

Warehouses
Shopping centers
Transportation hubs
Manufacturing facilities
Higher education campuses

Key Features & Capabilities

Built for Speed and Scale

The BMG-2200 is designed to handle large square footage in a fraction of the time. With multiple grinding heads and a ride-on configuration, it boosts productivity without compromising quality.

Consistent, High-Quality Finishes

The planetary motion delivers even abrasion and polishing across the entire surface, ensuring a uniform sheen from wall to wall.

Cleaner, Safer Worksites

An integrated dust collection system supports clean, compliant jobsites, making it ideal for environments with strict air quality or cleanliness requirements.

Ergonomics That Matter

Ride-on operation reduces operator fatigue, allowing our crews to work longer shifts while maintaining precision.

Best Practices We Follow

At Universal Metro, equipment is only as effective as the crew behind it. That’s why we pair the BMG-2200 with expert training and proven protocols, including:

Surface Moisture Testing: Ensuring optimal conditions before grinding
Correct Grit Progression: To achieve the desired gloss level without over-polishing
Edge Integration: Managing edges and transitions for a seamless final result
Dust Control: Using HEPA-grade vacuums to contain silica dust

Is It Right for Your Project?

If you’re working on a high-traffic, large-format facility that demands durable, aesthetically pleasing polished concrete or a prepared substrate for additional finishes, the BMG-2200 can save time and money while delivering superior results.

Ready to Discuss Your Next Project?

Let’s talk. Our team can walk you through capabilities, timelines, and how this investment in equipment translates into long-term value for your facility.

Universal Metro Named one of the Places to Work LA Business Journal cover page

Universal Metro Named One of LA Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in 2022

Posted by Alexis Triepke on August 18, 2022

Universal Metro Named as One of LA’s Best Places to Work in 2022

We are thrilled to announce that Universal Metro, Inc. has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Los Angeles for 2022 by the Los Angeles Business Journal. This prestigious recognition highlights our continued commitment to creating an outstanding work environment for our employees. We were honored to be recognized in the Best Small Business category—an achievement that reflects our focus on building a collaborative and empowering company culture.

Why This Award Matters

The Los Angeles Business Journal’s Best Places to Work recognition is one of the most coveted awards in the region. With over 250,000 businesses in Greater Los Angeles, this award is an extraordinary honor for any company. The selection process is highly competitive, involving a thorough assessment that includes both employee feedback and business practices. Employees were surveyed anonymously about their experiences, providing invaluable insight into what makes Universal Metro a great place to work.

Our Employees Make Us Exceptional

At Universal Metro, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. This recognition is a testament to the “Ideal Team Players” who shape our company’s success each day. Our employees are not just contributors—they are the heartbeat of Universal Metro. From project managers to installation experts, every team member plays a crucial role in maintaining our high standards of quality and service. It’s their dedication, collaboration, and commitment to excellence that make us stand out.

The rigorous nomination process involved a detailed employee survey, assessing everything from team dynamics to personal experiences at Universal Metro. This feedback helps us continuously improve our work environment and ensures that we provide the best possible experience for our team.

The Best Places to Work Awards

The awards ceremony, held in August, celebrated the top businesses that exemplify best practices in employee satisfaction and workplace culture. The results were featured in the August 15, 2022 edition of the Los Angeles Business Journal, showcasing the most exceptional workplaces across the region.

We are incredibly proud to be featured alongside other distinguished companies that share our dedication to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and innovative workplace.

Universal Metro’s Core Values and Culture

Our values—Humble, Hungry, and Smart—are at the heart of everything we do. These principles guide how we work with each other and with our clients. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous growth, we ensure that everyone at Universal Metro has the opportunity to succeed. It’s this commitment to employee development that sets us apart in the competitive world of commercial flooring.

Our leadership team is deeply committed to supporting every individual and ensuring that we provide an environment where employees feel respected, valued, and motivated to excel.

Looking Toward the Future

This recognition is not just an award—it’s a reflection of our continued commitment to growth. We remain focused on maintaining an outstanding workplace culture. Our employees are the key to our success, and we will continue to provide a work environment where they can thrive, innovate, and grow.

We’re excited to see what the future holds, and we’re committed to keeping Universal Metro a top workplace for years to come.

https://labusinessjournal.com/business-journal-events/the-best-small-companies-to-work-for-in-los-angeles/

Universal Metro’s Estimation Lead, Victoria Turkich, Receives Award for Young Professionals Making a Difference in Flooring

Posted by Universal Metro on February 28, 2021

February 2021 — In an industry built on precision, innovation, and long-lasting impact, true leadership often emerges in unexpected ways. At just 26 years old, Victoria Turkich, Estimation Lead at Universal Metro, has already made her mark in the commercial flooring industry. Her recognition as one of Floor Focus Magazine’s Emerging Leaders for 2021 is a testament not only to her exceptional talent but also to her unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for her craft.

This honor places her among the most dynamic young professionals under 40 making a measurable difference in flooring today. For Universal Metro, it also marks the second time in four years that one of its leaders has been recognized, following President Grant Petruzzelli’s win in 2017. The achievement underscores the company’s culture of excellence and its ability to cultivate leaders who set new standards in the industry. In fact, this milestone has been widely celebrated under the headline: Universal Metro’s Estimation Lead, Victoria Turkich, receives award for young professionals making a difference in flooring.

Rising to the Challenge

The year 2020 tested industries everywhere, and flooring was no exception. From keeping construction projects on schedule amid pandemic restrictions to ensuring safety for teams and clients, leadership mattered more than ever. Victoria’s contributions during this time stood out. She not only supported major bidding efforts that represented tens of millions of dollars in projects but also introduced new standard operating procedures that brought consistency, organization, and transparency to her department.

Her initiatives included:

Establishing a communal bid calendar to keep teams aligned.
Creating a project backlog data entry system that improved efficiency.
Standardizing estimation resources to ensure accuracy and repeatable success.

These improvements continue to shape the way Universal Metro approaches complex projects, ensuring that every bid reflects both strategic insight and operational excellence.

A Career Rooted in Dedication

What makes Victoria’s story particularly inspiring is the length and depth of her journey at such a young age. She began her career at Universal Metro while still in high school, working as an executive assistant. Over nearly 12 years, she steadily grew within the organization, embracing challenges and taking on new responsibilities along the way.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in construction management from California Baptist University, she applied her academic knowledge directly to real-world projects. This combination of formal training and hands-on experience gave her an edge in balancing the technical and strategic aspects of flooring estimation. Today, as Estimation Lead, she not only delivers results but also mentors her peers, proving that leadership is not defined by age but by action.

Recognition Among Industry Leaders

The Emerging Leaders Award is no small achievement. Judged by flooring veterans Ralph Boe and Paul Friederichsen, the program celebrates professionals under 40 who are shaping the future of the industry. The 2021 pool of nominees was the largest in its history, making Victoria’s selection even more noteworthy.

The list of winners includes company presidents, vice presidents, and directors—individuals with decades of experience and leadership roles at some of the largest flooring contractors in the nation. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with this group, Victoria demonstrates that excellence has no age requirement. Her win is more than personal recognition; it positions Universal Metro among the companies driving innovation in the industry.

Driving Innovation at Universal Metro

Victoria’s role extends beyond estimation. She actively supports business development and specification efforts, collaborating with vendor partners to design customized solutions that meet client needs. Her ability to balance data, relationships, and strategy makes her a vital part of Universal Metro’s success.

Her work has touched projects across healthcare, education, retail, corporate, and government sectors, each requiring unique approaches and tailored solutions. By focusing on quality, accuracy, and creativity, she embodies Universal Metro’s core values of integrity, respect, reliability, and results.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Victoria’s recognition also shines a light on the opportunities available to young professionals in the flooring industry. Her journey from high school assistant to award-winning leader highlights how mentorship, perseverance, and curiosity can accelerate a career. For women in construction and flooring, her story is especially significant, serving as proof that leadership and technical excellence are accessible at every stage of life.

Her achievement continues to be shared as an example within the industry, with the story often referenced under its full title: Universal Metro’s Estimation Lead, Victoria Turkich, receives award for young professionals making a difference in flooring.

Looking Ahead

As Universal Metro continues to expand its presence in California, Nevada, and Arizona, leaders like Victoria ensure that the company’s reputation for excellence only grows stronger. Her recognition as an Emerging Leader not only honors her personal achievements but also represents a collective win for Universal Metro’s culture of fostering talent and empowering future leaders.

In her own way, Victoria is paving the floors—and the future—for an industry that thrives on precision, collaboration, and innovation. Her story proves that greatness doesn’t wait until later in life. Sometimes, it begins with ambition, perseverance, and a willingness to lead long before the age of 30.

Conclusion

The story of Universal Metro’s Estimation Lead, Victoria Turkich, receiving the award for young professionals making a difference in flooring is more than just recognition of her talent. It’s a reminder that the flooring industry is alive with fresh perspectives and new energy. For Universal Metro, it’s yet another moment of pride in building a company where leaders rise, teams excel, and innovation drives success.

At just 26 years old, Victoria has already proven that she belongs among the brightest minds in the field—and her journey is only just beginning.

To Read More

2021 Emerging Leaders: Young professionals are making a big difference in the flooring community and their hometowns

UMI’s Commitment to Health and Safety Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

Posted by Alexis Triepke on March 19, 2020

On March, 19, 2020, Universal Metro’s Leadership addressed the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, and Universal Metro’s commitment to Health and Safety, Technology, Customer Service and Project Management.

(more…)

Category: Flooring Industry