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

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.

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Group shot of the Universal Metro team Feb 2025
Team UMI 2025
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Universal Metro Named One of LA’s Best Places to Work in 2024

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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.

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best places to work 4 Male Installers standing for photo in a warehouse
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Universal Metro Named One of LA Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in 2022

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

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.

Read more about the Best Small Companies to Work For in Los Angeles.

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/

Victoria Turkich

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

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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.

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the outer realm 01

Universal Metro’s Unique Installation of Carpet Tile Creates Fully Immersive 360 Experience at The Outer Realm Art Exhibit

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

How do you push the boundaries on a gallery space? For artist Michael Reeder, creating a fully immersive 360 experience with carpet tile was just the answer. In collaboration with Milliken’s national designers, their Los Angeles-based sales team, and our team of project managers and installation mechanics, Milliken’s DDI process was engaged to create a custom, patterned carpet tile that would extend the canvas beyond the showpiece to the floors and walls that surround it. To do so, the custom carpet tile needed to be as bold and as the artwork itself, and the installation had to be as precise and meticulous as the artist’s showcased work.

Continue reading “Universal Metro’s Unique Installation of Carpet Tile Creates Fully Immersive 360 Experience at The Outer Realm Art Exhibit” →

evolution of commercial flooring contractors - Floor Focus Cover

Evolution of Commercial Flooring Contractors: Interview with Grant Petruzzelli

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

In June 2019, Floor Focus Magazine published an article highlighting a panel discussion with four leaders from the Starnet Commercial Flooring network. Among them was Universal Metro’s president, Grant Petruzzelli, who joined his peers to reflect on the evolution of commercial flooring contractors and the opportunities—and challenges—shaping the industry.

You can read the full article here: Floor Focus Magazine – Evolution of the Commercial Contractor.

From Core Products to Comprehensive Services

A decade ago, commercial flooring contractors were largely focused on the basics: carpet, vinyl, and resilient products. At Universal Metro, much of our work centered on healthcare facilities, with sheet vinyl and linoleum being the dominant choices. Budget pressures often meant substituting with lower-cost finishes like VCT or broadloom carpet.

Today, however, the evolution of commercial flooring contractors has transformed the industry. Expanded budgets and greater design freedom have created demand for high-end, customized finishes such as polished concrete and porcelain tile. Contractors are no longer just installers; they’ve become single-source partners, offering a range of services under one contract.

At Universal Metro, this shift led us to expand into areas like moisture testing, infection control, and lift systems—services that add value for clients while reducing the need to coordinate multiple subcontractors.

Diversification Driven by Client Needs

Why have contractors broadened their offerings? The answer is clear: clients expect more. Facility managers and general contractors want bundled solutions, fewer vendors, and expertise across flooring categories.

Universal Metro has seen this firsthand. Facilities that once prioritized only cost are now focused on lifecycle value, performance, and long-term risk reduction. This has driven adoption of advanced moisture-control systems, epoxy coatings, and concrete underlayments—services that our teams have mastered through vendor partnerships and manufacturer certifications.

Other Starnet members echoed this trend, citing floor care divisions, stone restoration, epoxy coatings, and even wall systems as ways to meet client needs while strengthening margins. Simply put, the modern flooring contractor must evolve—or risk falling behind.

Growth Through Expertise and Partnerships

Adding new services requires more than just ambition—it requires knowledge. Universal Metro has invested heavily in training, certifications, and vendor partnerships with industry leaders like ARDEX. Our LevelMaster Elite Installer status and ongoing workshops with product experts have allowed us to bring innovative, high-performance solutions directly to our clients.

This commitment to expertise ensures that when clients choose Universal Metro, they’re not just hiring installers. They’re gaining a partner who understands the complexities of healthcare environments, corporate spaces, hospitality projects, and beyond.

The Future of Commercial Flooring Contractors

The panel discussion underscored a key truth: the evolution of commercial flooring contractors is ongoing. Contractors must adapt to market demands, expand capabilities, and deliver bundled, value-driven solutions.

At Universal Metro, this philosophy has fueled significant growth. By offering services others can’t—or won’t—we’ve expanded our client base, deepened relationships with existing customers, and set ourselves apart in a competitive market.

Conclusion

The commercial flooring industry looks very different than it did ten years ago, and it will continue to evolve. Contractors who embrace change, invest in expertise, and partner closely with their clients will lead the way.

Universal Metro is proud to be at the forefront of this evolution, delivering flooring solutions that combine innovation, compliance, and long-term value.

👉 Read the full article in Floor Focus Magazine: Evolution of the Commercial Contractor

More from UMI

Interested in learning more about our perspective on the flooring industry? Explore additional interviews with Universal Metro leaders to see how we’re shaping the future of commercial flooring, tackling unique challenges, and driving innovation across healthcare, corporate, and hospitality projects. Read more UMI interviews →

commercial flooring design - PLH Cath Lab

Universal Metro Wins Silver at Starnet Commercial Flooring Design Awards for Unique Installation Challenge

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

This weekend, Universal Metro, Inc. earned the Silver Award in the Unique Installation Challenge category at the Starnet Commercial Flooring Design Awards. The recognition highlights our expertise in healthcare flooring installation and our ability to deliver complex projects under demanding conditions.

The award-winning project was distinguished by strict OSHPD (Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development) requirements, intricate flooring designs, ongoing moisture concerns, and a phased construction schedule that allowed an acute care facility to remain fully operational during nearly two years of construction.

We’re proud to be recognized for this achievement, and we extend gratitude to our skilled installation team, vendor partnerships, and design collaborators at c|a Architects in Long Beach, CA.

Project Overview:

New Cath Lab Suite at Placentia-Linda Hospital

The project focused on the construction of a new Cardiac Catheterization (Cath) Lab Suite at Placentia-Linda Hospital, part of an ongoing investment to enhance patient care.

  • Design by c|a Architects: The existing admin area was transformed into a spacious, family-friendly waiting area, an efficient Cath Lab, and new staff support spaces.

  • Patient-Centered Design: The suite features a warm finish palette that aligns with the hospital’s standards. The waiting area incorporates nature-inspired textures, soothing patterns, and a nourishment bar to enhance comfort for families.

  • Collaborative Planning: The design team worked closely with the hospital and GE Healthcare to ensure efficient layout and functionality. Adjustable peg boards and versatile perimeter storage create an optimized, high-performance clinical environment.

    or more examples of how we create patient-centered design environments, see our recent projects.

Tackling the Unique Installation Challenge

Working in occupied hospitals is always challenging, but in California, OSHPD regulations add an extra layer of complexity. Universal Metro’s team managed a phased, two-year construction schedule that demanded consistency in dye-lots across six separate phases while ensuring minimal disruption to patient care.

Moisture Control Solutions

One of the largest obstacles was addressing inherent slab moisture issues. Our team partnered with ARDEX Technical Service Division to engineer a custom flooring solution capable of handling:

  • High RH levels

  • Seismic cracks

  • Wide cold joints

  • Long-term warranty requirements

The solution included shot blasting, dual applications of ARDEX MC Rapid with sand broadcasts, and self-leveling with ARDEX K10. As an ARDEX LevelMaster Elite Installer, we were able to extend the warranty an additional five years beyond the standard coverage.

Infection Control & Phased Scheduling

With patient safety as the top priority:

  • Negative air containment with HEPA filters was used to maintain infection control while work continued in adjacent occupied spaces.

  • Crews operated in extremely tight conditions, often working just feet from active medical procedures.

  • Flooring designs were executed in phases, ensuring seamless transitions as containment zones shifted.

Overcoming Unexpected Challenges

During construction, three slab leaks required sections of the flooring system to be reinstalled. Through careful product management and use of attic stock, our team avoided unsightly patching and maintained design continuity.

This ability to adapt under pressure showcased not only technical expertise but also commitment to quality, safety, and patient-centered construction.

Why This Project Stands Out

This award-winning installation represents the very best of what Universal Metro, Inc. delivers:

  • Advanced solutions for healthcare flooring challenges

  • Expertise in OSHPD-regulated construction

  • Proven ability to manage multi-phase projects in occupied facilities

  • Long-term partnerships with leading product manufacturers like ARDEX

Conclusion

Receiving the Starnet Silver Award at the commercial flooring design awards is more than just an industry honor for Universal Metro—it’s a reflection of the passion, dedication, and care our entire team brings to every project. This recognition celebrates not only our commitment to commercial flooring excellence, but also the spirit of collaboration with our trusted vendor partners and the thoughtful vision of c|a Architects. Together, we turned challenges into opportunities, creating a space that serves patients, families, and staff with comfort and dignity. We are truly humbled and grateful to be recognized for work that makes a meaningful difference.

CHOC Hospital

Universal Metro Wins Gold for Healthcare Flooring Design at Starnet People’s Choice Awards 2018

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

When it comes to creating healing environments, flooring plays a vital role in shaping both aesthetics and function. Universal Metro is proud to announce that our work on the revitalized Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) NICU Wing earned the Gold Award in the People’s Choice category at the prestigious Starnet Design Awards.

The recognition highlights our commitment to innovation in healthcare flooring design, delivering spaces that are imaginative, resilient, and centered around patient care.

A Standout Project in Healthcare Flooring Design

The CHOC NICU Wing project was a bold reimagining of what pediatric healthcare spaces could look like. Working with architect FKP (CannonDesign) in association with Haynes + Oakley, Architects, our team helped bring a vision to life that combined playful creativity with clinical performance.

From the intricate lizards and leaves pattern in the elevator lobby to the warm, residential-inspired luxury vinyl tile in patient rooms, the flooring design captures both whimsy and comfort. Judge Paul Lewandowski described the project as “a real standout,” praising how the vivid colors and thoughtful details contributed to an uplifting environment for young patients and their families.

Collaboration that Drives Innovation

The success of this project reflects the power of partnerships. Universal Metro worked closely with Starnet Preferred Vendors, including ARDEX Americas, Armstrong Flooring, Daltile, Tarkett, Mannington Commercial, and Tandus Centiva, to ensure the right materials and solutions were specified for long-term performance.

The 20th Annual Starnet Design Awards ceremony, held in Orlando, Florida, celebrated the industry’s most outstanding achievements. As Jeanne Matson, president and CEO of Starnet Worldwide, emphasized, “The true value of Starnet is not only the finished work, but new and strengthened relationships that are driving our industry forward.”

This project is a perfect example: collaboration among architects, vendors, and installers produced a result that blends creativity with durability — the hallmarks of effective healthcare flooring design.

Recognition from Industry Peers

What makes the People’s Choice Award so meaningful is its source. Unlike other categories judged by a select panel, this award is voted on by the entire Starnet Commercial Flooring Partnership — a network of the best flooring contractors in the industry.

For Universal Metro, this is the second Gold Award in the People’s Choice category, following our 2014 win. President Grant Petruzzelli reflected, “While it’s humbling to win a design award in any category, it takes on a special meaning when your team’s commitment to excellence is validated by the vote of your peers.”

In addition to the Gold People’s Choice Award, the CHOC NICU Wing was also recognized with a Silver Award in the Healthcare market segment, reinforcing its impact as a benchmark for innovative hospital design.

Why Healthcare Flooring Design Matters

Hospitals and healthcare facilities are some of the most complex environments for flooring contractors. Materials must meet strict safety and infection control standards while also supporting comfort and emotional well-being.

The CHOC NICU Wing project demonstrates how thoughtful healthcare flooring design can transform a space:

  • Enhanced healing environments: Color and pattern create a calming, uplifting atmosphere for patients and families.

  • Performance under pressure: Durable finishes withstand the heavy traffic of staff, equipment, and visitors.

  • Seamless integration: Every design element works within hospital safety and compliance requirements.

Universal Metro continues to lead in this space, combining technical expertise with design-forward thinking to help healthcare clients achieve environments that are as functional as they are inspiring.

Conclusion

Winning the Gold Award in the People’s Choice category at the Starnet Design Awards is an honor we share with our partners, architects, and vendors. More importantly, it underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of healthcare flooring design to deliver environments that support healing, safety, and comfort.

👉 View more of our award winning work here: Projects

healthcare flooring design - CHOC

8 Starnet Members Honored as Floor Focus Future Leaders

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

Grant Petruzzelli“Once a year, Floor Focus Magazine recognizes the best of the up-and-coming talent through its Future Focus awards. Those eligible for the awards must be under 40 years old and employed in the floorcovering dealer segment, including retailers, distributors and commercial contractors. Congratulations to the eight Starnet Members for achieving this distinguished honor.”

We at Universal Metro are especially proud of our very own Director of Sales and Marketing, Grant Petruzzelli, who was among the eight Starnet members honored with this notable award. Continue reading “8 Starnet Members Honored as Floor Focus Future Leaders” →

Grant Petruzzelli

Celebrating Flooring Industry Young Professionals: Grant Petruzzelli Recognized in 2017

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

At Universal Metro, leadership is about more than titles — it’s about passion, innovation, and commitment to driving the industry forward. In 2017, that commitment was recognized when Grant Petruzzelli, then Director of Sales and Marketing at Universal Metro, was honored as one of the flooring industry young professionals under 40 making an impact.

Recognizing Future Leaders

The award, announced by Floor Focus Magazine, shines a spotlight on leaders under 40 who are helping to shape the future of flooring. Winners are nominated by their peers and judged by a panel of industry veterans. In 2017, judges included Ralph Boe, president of ArrowStar and past president of Beaulieu Group, and Paul Friederichsen, a respected flooring industry marketing strategist.

This recognition underscores the importance of supporting the next generation of talent — professionals who bring fresh ideas, a willingness to innovate, and the determination to lead in a rapidly changing industry.

Universal Metro’s Grant Petruzzelli Named Among Winners

Grant Petruzzelli stood alongside an impressive group of peers from across the nation. The winners of the flooring industry young professionals award in 2017 included retail leaders, designers, and contractors representing the very best of the next generation.

As Universal Metro’s Director of Sales and Marketing at the time, Petruzzelli was recognized for his role in expanding the company’s reach, building strong client relationships, and helping establish Universal Metro as a trusted leader in commercial flooring. His focus on both operational excellence and customer service reflected the values that continue to drive the company today.

Honoring the 2017 Class of Young Professionals

The award ceremony was held in Las Vegas during Surfaces, one of the flooring industry’s largest events. A cocktail reception brought together nominees, winners, and industry leaders to celebrate the announcement.

The 2017 honorees included:

  • Justin Atcheson, President of Builders Floor Covering and Tile

  • Steavie Cain, Managing Principal of Quality Service Floor Covering

  • David DeGol Jr., Division Manager of DeGol Carpet

  • Michelle Gibson, Store Manager of Lima Carpet Corporation

  • Katie Krause, Senior Interior Designer at H.J. Martin and Son

  • Garrett Ulfig of Mastercraft Flooring

  • Sage Parrish of Quality Floor Coverings

  • Grant Petruzzelli, Director of Sales and Marketing at Universal Metro

  • Jared Satler, Owner of Dick’s Carpet One & Auburn Carpet One

  • David Webb, Store Manager at Dalton Carpet One

Each winner brought a unique perspective and skill set to the table, proving that the flooring industry young professionals community is filled with innovators eager to make a lasting difference.

Why Recognition Matters

Industry awards like this are more than just accolades. They highlight the individuals and companies who are moving the industry forward. For Universal Metro, Petruzzelli’s recognition affirmed our culture of leadership, innovation, and teamwork.

It also reinforced a larger truth: investing in people is just as important as investing in products. By cultivating leaders and giving them opportunities to grow, the flooring industry ensures its continued evolution and long-term success.

Conclusion

Universal Metro is proud of Grant Petruzzelli’s recognition in the 2017 Young Professional Award program. His leadership and commitment to excellence reflect the values that guide our work every day. As the flooring industry continues to evolve, we remain dedicated to empowering our team members to lead with vision and integrity.

👉 Read the original article in Floor Focus Magazine: Winners of 2017 Young Professional Award Announced.