UMI team showcases Donation to Santa Fe Springs Back to School Backpack Program

Universal Metro’s 2025 Donation to Santa Fe Springs Back to School Backpack Program: Supporting Local Students & Families

Posted by Jacqueline Dumbrille on

At Universal Metro, giving back to our community, particularly Santa Fe Springs,  is at the heart of everything we do. While we are best known for providing high-performance flooring solutions across commercial spaces, we believe in making a difference beyond the job site. For years, we’ve been proud to partner with the Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center in Santa Fe Springs to support their Back to School Backpack Program—a cause that helps empower local students, families, and job seekers with the tools they need to succeed.

Universal Metro’s Commitment to Santa Fe Springs Community

As a leading flooring company, Universal Metro is deeply committed to helping our community thrive. Through our ongoing partnership with the Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center, we are actively involved in programs that support both education and workforce readiness. Every year, we contribute to initiatives that equip students with essential school supplies and help adults gain the resources they need to re-enter the workforce with dignity and confidence.

How Universal Metro Supports Education and Workforce Readiness

The Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center’s programs have a significant impact on the Santa Fe Springs community by providing access to much-needed resources for students and job seekers. These initiatives, including the annual Back to School Backpack Program, directly help local students prepare for the school year and empower adults to rejoin the workforce. At Universal Metro, we understand that providing these essentials is a crucial step in fostering a better future for everyone involved.

A Team Effort: The Power of Giving Back at Universal Metro

Giving back is not just about donations—it’s about people coming together to make a meaningful impact. At Universal Metro, our team fully embraces this mission. Each year, our employees rally together to collect and deliver school supplies, clothing, and hygiene kits, ensuring that the families and students of Santa Fe Springs have what they need for a successful school year and beyond.

More Than Flooring: Building Strong Foundations for Our Community

Universal Metro is more than just a flooring company—we are a team that values integrity, responsibility, and community involvement. Our commitment to social responsibility sets us apart in the commercial construction industry, reflecting who we are both in the office and out in the community. We believe in building not only high-end commercial spaces but also lasting relationships that improve the lives of our neighbors in California, Nevada, and Arizona.

Gratitude for the Opportunity to Give Back

We are thankful to the City of Santa Fe Springs and the Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center for providing a platform that allows businesses like ours to give back in a meaningful way. Their dedication to supporting local families and students is truly inspiring, and we are honored to play a part in it.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Universal Metro is committed to continuing this tradition of giving back and finding new ways to support our neighbors. We encourage you to get involved and learn more about the Gus Velasco Center’s programs. Visit Santa Fe Springs Community Services to discover how you can contribute to supporting local students and families in need.

The Back to School Backpack Program provides essential school supplies to students in Santa Fe Springs, ensuring they have what they need to succeed in the classroom. Every year, Universal Metro’s team donates backpacks filled with supplies like notebooks, pencils, and other classroom essentials. This program helps local students start the school year on the right foot, empowering them to reach their full potential.

Additionally, the Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center provides more than just school supplies. They offer workforce readiness programs that equip job seekers with the tools to re-enter the job market, such as professional attire, hygiene kits, and job search assistance. By supporting these programs, Universal Metro is helping create a stronger, more resilient community where every individual has the opportunity to succeed.



City of Santa Fe Springs logo
Universal Metro recognized in LA Business Journal's Best Places to Work 2025

Transform Your Future with Universal Metro

Posted by Universal Metro on

Transform Your Future with a Career at Universal Metro

Looking to transform your future? At Universal Metro  we offer something different — a career built on integrity, respect, reliability, and results. Our people are the driving force behind every successful project, and we believe in creating opportunities where you can grow, thrive, and make a real impact.

Why Choose Universal Metro?

At UMI, you’re not just filling a role. You’re joining a team that values people first. We are committed to building long-term careers, not just temporary positions. That means we invest in our employees through training, mentorship, and professional development.

As one of the leading commercial flooring contractors in the Western United States, we bring excellence to projects in:

  • Healthcare – building safe, resilient, and hygienic environments for patients and providers.

  • Education – creating learning spaces that inspire students and teachers.

  • Specialty Retail – designing standout spaces that elevate customer experience.

  • Government and Corporate – delivering reliable flooring solutions with precision and professionalism.

Our Growing Footprint

Headquartered in California and with operations in Nevada and Arizona, Universal Metro is expanding its reach into new markets. This growth means more opportunities for talented professionals ready to step into meaningful roles. Wherever we go, we bring the same trusted values that have shaped our reputation for decades.

Our Recognition Speaks Volumes

Hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed. Universal Metro recognized as one of LA’s Best Places to Work for 2025 reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and proud of what they do. This recognition is more than an award—it’s proof that our culture is thriving, and that employees truly enjoy being part of the UMI team.

Build Your Career With Us

Whether you’re just starting out in your career or seeking your next big opportunity, UMI provides an environment where you can:

  • Learn from the best – Experienced professionals mentor you and share their expertise.

  • Take on exciting projects – From hospitals to universities to major retailers, no two projects are the same.

  • Grow your skills – We provide training and pathways for advancement.

  • Find stability – Our reputation and client relationships give us consistent, rewarding work.

At UMI, we don’t just talk about career growth — we make it happen. Many of our leaders began their careers in entry-level positions and grew with us over the years.

The People Behind the Projects

Behind every polished floor, every innovative installation, and every satisfied client is a team of dedicated professionals. We know that success doesn’t come from products or processes alone — it comes from people. That’s why we foster a culture of teamwork and respect where every voice matters.

Our employees describe UMI as:

  • Supportive – You’re never on your own. Collaboration is part of our DNA.

  • Innovative – We embrace new technologies and ideas to stay ahead.

  • Inclusive – We welcome diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives.

  • Rewarding – We celebrate achievements and recognize the effort it takes to get there.

Your Path Starts Here

Working at Universal Metro means more than showing up each day. It means contributing to projects that shape communities, improve lives, and stand the test of time. It means being part of a company that values your input and supports your goals.

When you join UMI, you’re not only investing in your future — you’re helping us shape the future of flooring in industries that impact thousands of people every day.

Ready to Transform Your Future?

If you’re ready to build a prosperous career in a company that values integrity and results, we’d love to hear from you. Explore opportunities at Universal Metro and discover what it’s like to be part of a team that sets the standard for excellence in commercial flooring.

 

 

Transform Your Future with Universal Metro.

More About UMI
Current Openings
transform your future
Giving back. Universal Metro team proudly displays donations

Giving Back: How Universal Metro Supports Students and Families in Santa Fe Springs

Posted by Universal Metro on

At Universal Metro, giving back isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are. Whether we’re installing high-performance flooring or helping local families prepare for school and work, we believe in building strong foundations in every sense of the word.

That’s why we’re proud to support the Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center right here in Santa Fe Springs. Through their donation programs, we’ve had the opportunity to give back to our local community in a meaningful and lasting way.

Giving Back Through School & Workforce Readiness Programs

Over the past few years, giving back through the Gus Velasco Center has become one of our favorite team traditions. These programs provide local students and job seekers with the essential tools they need to succeed—things like:

  • Backpacks and school supplies

  • Hygiene kits and professional clothing

  • Food, household items, and more

These items may seem simple, but they have a huge impact. For students, it’s about showing up to class with confidence. For working adults, it’s about having the dignity and resources to rejoin the workforce. Giving back in these ways helps our community move forward—and we’re honored to be part of that.

Giving Back Is a Team Effort

At Universal Metro, one of our core values is being an “ideal team player.” That means staying humble, hungry, and people-smart. When it comes to giving back, our whole team shows up—collecting, packing, and delivering supplies with care and pride.

What started as a seasonal donation drive has grown into something bigger. Giving back has become part of our company culture, and it brings our team closer together while making a real difference in the lives of our neighbors.

More Than a Flooring Company

To our partners in the commercial construction world, this is a glimpse of what we value—not just on the job site, but in our day-to-day work culture. Giving back is one of the many ways we try to lead with integrity and purpose.

And to job seekers exploring careers with us, this is who we are. We care about doing meaningful work and making a positive impact, whether we’re building high-end commercial spaces or lifting up the communities we serve in California, Nevada, and Arizona.

Thank You for Letting Us Give Back

We’re grateful to the City of Santa Fe Springs and the team at the Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center for creating spaces and programs that allow companies like ours to give back in powerful ways.

We look forward to continuing this tradition and finding new ways to support our neighbors—because at Universal Metro, giving back is how we build something that lasts.

Want to Learn More or Join In?

Visit Santa Fe Springs Community Services to learn about the Gus Velasco Center’s programs and how you can support local families, too.

 

Giving Back. Two ladies reveal the generous donation made by UMI staff to Santa Fe Springs
Giving Back: How Universal Metro Supports Students and Families in Santa Fe Springs 8

UMI Staff come together to support Back to School supplies program for the City of Santa Fe Springs 1
Giving Back: How Universal Metro Supports Students and Families in Santa Fe Springs 9

Victoria Turkich

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

Posted by Universal Metro on

 

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

Training Day - ARDEX

Training Day at Universal Metro: Hands-On Learning with ARDEX and Silica Sand Compliance

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

Training Day: Building Skills and Strengthening Our Team

At Universal Metro, continuous learning is part of our DNA. Our latest Training Day brought staff and crew members together for an immersive, hands-on experience designed to strengthen skills, improve safety, and highlight the newest flooring innovations from ARDEX.

On Friday, our team participated in a series of ARDEX product demonstrations alongside a focused seminar on Silica Sand Compliance Training. These sessions gave our #LevelMasterElite Installers the chance to build on their expertise with direct, real-world applications while engaging in group discussions and Q&A opportunities.

ARDEX Product Demonstrations

The highlight of our Training Day was the opportunity to work directly with ARDEX’s latest product innovations, including:

These hands-on demos allowed our crews to experience the application process, understand product performance, and gain deeper insights into the durability and efficiency of these cutting-edge solutions.

Silica Sand Compliance Training

Following the demos, our team participated in an extensive seminar on Silica Sand Best Practices. This included a comprehensive review of compliance standards, safe handling procedures, and effective risk management strategies. A round table discussion gave our installers the chance to share experiences, ask questions, and collaborate on best practices that will carry over into the field.

Why Training Day Matters

Our investment in Training Day events demonstrates Universal Metro’s ongoing commitment to growth, safety, and quality. By empowering our team with up-to-date product knowledge and compliance training, we ensure that every project we deliver is backed by expertise, precision, and innovation.

We’re grateful to ARDEX for their partnership and to our dedicated staff for embracing every opportunity to learn and lead in the commercial flooring industry.

👉 See highlights from our Training Day here: Watch the video on Facebook

(more…)
img 1152 3

Four Crew Leads Achieve Armstrong’s Level III Certification

Posted by Alexis Triepke on

“Building Leaders” and “Strategic Partnerships” are both core values at Universal Metro. These four crew leads exemplified both, as they all earned a Level III Certification with Armstrong Commercial Floors today: Armstrong’s highest level of distinction for craftsmanship and skill.

Continue reading “Four Crew Leads Achieve Armstrong’s Level III Certification” →

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.

Floor Trends UMI January 2017

Universal Metro: Growth and Success by Meeting Clients’ Needs

Posted by Alexis Triepke on with 1 Comment
January 6, 2017 Written by David Triepke on behalf of Floor Trends Magazine It’s never an easy decision to begin scaling your business for growth. When balancing the risks of new opportunities with the uncertainty of a stagnant national economy, the decision for any business owner to invest in growth is rooted in one key question: is this sustainable? By understanding our journey and our purpose, we at Universal Metro believe we can do so effectively, without compromising our service and value, by answering the call of our clients to serve as trusted advisors for all of their flooring covering needs.
(more…)