- Memphis, TN
STAUF USA Celebrates the Retirement of Mark Long
STAUF USA is proud to recognize the retirement of Mark Long, who is concluding an extraordinary 48-year career in the flooring industry. Mark has been an essential part of STAUF’s technical team for nearly 12 years, and his influence will continue to be felt throughout the company and the industry.
Mark began his career in 1977 at his family’s flooring store in Memphis, where he installed a wide range of floor coverings and developed a deep understanding of the craft. After college, he oversaw up to 18 installation crews per day, gaining real-world experience across multiple flooring types and jobsite challenges.
In the early 1990s, Mark attended NOFMA and NWFA training, which sparked a lifelong passion for education. He went on to serve as an NWFA instructor for many years, teaching classes across the United States and internationally in Sydney, Australia. Mark was among the first in the industry to earn the NWFA Craftsman, Advanced Master Craftsman, and Vanguard honors, reflecting his commitment to excellence and continued learning.
Throughout his career, Mark also worked in wood flooring sales and adhesives and assisted in developing a line of wood finishes. His broad experience made him a trusted resource for installers, distributors, and manufacturers alike.
During his nearly 12 years at STAUF USA, Mark served as Technical Director, assisting professionals daily with product guidance, troubleshooting, and best-practice recommendations. He also founded STAUF University, where he trained hundreds of installers and sales representatives through hands-on classes at the company’s Memphis office. Mark often said that while he loved teaching, he also learned from every student, every technique, and every region’s approach to installation.
Mark leaves behind not just an impressive résumé, but a legacy of friendships and professional relationships built over decades. He is widely respected across the industry, including by competitors who became close colleagues over the years. As Mark reflects, “This industry has served me well, and I hope I have given back to it as well.”
STAUF USA extends its deepest appreciation to Mark for his years of dedication, leadership, and passion for the trade. We congratulate him on his retirement and wish him all the best in this next chapter.