[Jackson, MS August 24, 2023] - The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the world's largest association of professional tile contractors, has announced two pivotal job openings:

• NTCA Trainer
• Sales and Membership Professional

As the demand for NTCA training programs continues to soar, these roles aim to cater to the association's expanding scope and influence.

The Sales and Membership Professional will work directly with the Executive and Assistant Executive Directors, the Board of Directors, and staff, focusing on significant membership growth and retention. The role entails extensive collaboration and marketing strategies to target potential members from various industries. For a detailed job description, benefits, and application visit here.

The NTCA Trainer position will be integral to the NTCA's Training Team, responsible for conducting training programs across the U.S. Ideal candidates should have over a decade of tile installation experience, familiarity with industry standards, and strong organizational skills. Full qualification requirements, job description and application can be accessed here.

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About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable.

(Clemson, SC)— In response to information from our tile industry colleagues in the Ukraine, the Tile Council of North America (TCNA), the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), and the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA) have launched a fundraiser for Save the Children’s humanitarian efforts in Ukraine and the region, to help protect and support children and their families. All three associations have contributed $10,000 each with further support also coming in from their members.

The fundraiser, “TILE$4UkrainianChildren” will focus on pursuing donations and pledges through the week of Coverings, April 5-8, 2022, for an industry donation goal of $250,000.

“Everyone has seen in the news the horrors of this war in Europe,” said Eric Astrachan, Executive Director of TCNA. “The U.N. is reporting that over 50% of the children in Ukraine have now been displaced, leaving them at serious risk of illness, hunger, and abuse. This fundraiser allows us to immediately put into action tile industry humanitarian support for Ukrainian children.”

Save the Children is a global humanitarian organization that was founded in 1919 and has been operating in Ukraine since the start of this escalating crisis in 2014. One of the first organizations to respond to the crisis with humanitarian relief, Save the Children is now scaling up their operations to support impacted children and families, distributing critical emergency supplies and establishing safe spaces for children where possible. Save the Children is a top-rated charity, earning the highest rating from Charity Navigator (4 stars) and is on Forbes list of America's Top 100 Charities. 

Additionally, Save the Children’s giving portal allows anyone, anywhere, to give at any time through the TILE$4UkrainianChildren campaign online donation page: http://support.savethechildren.org/goto/TILES4UKR.

“I would like to send all our thankfulness for what you’re doing for us,” said Lishchynskyi Ioan of the Ukrainian Association of Ceramics. “Project «TILE$» sounds really good and we know Save The Children is a big organization with a clear structure of methods to provide target support for Ukrainian children.”

March 28, 2022 – ARLINGTON, Va.

The Rock Stars program is a venerable tradition of recognizing emerging tile and stone industry trailblazers who consistently innovate as forerunners of achievement. The winners represent the talented and resourceful young professionals in the industry who are setting new standards for excellence and performance.

“Now, in its seventh year, the popular Coverings Rock Stars program continues to reinforce Coverings’ mission to support the advancement and triumphs of the industry by distinguishing talented young leaders as well as fostering networking and educational opportunities,” said Jennifer Hoff, president of Taffy Event Strategies, LLC, the event management company for Coverings.

A committee of longstanding tile and stone industry leaders thoughtfully evaluated nominations to select this year’s 13 inductees for Coverings Rock Star status. The 2022 Rock Stars represent numerous industry segments and include the following winners:

Contractor (2):

Rogue Bergerson, Tile Artisan
Bergerson Tile
Astoria, Ore.

Ricardo Rosa, Superintendent
David Allen Company
Warrenton, Va.

Designer (1):

Jaclyn Isaac, Principal Interior Designer
Doni Douglas Designs
Shrewsbury, N.J.

Distributor (1):

Chelston Ross, Territory Representative
D&B Tile Distributors
Sunrise, Fla.

Installer (2):

Jaime Karsky, Owner/Master Artisan Installer
Meadowlark Tile
Dickinson, N.D.

Matt Welner, Trainer
National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA)
Jackson, Miss.

Manufacturer (3):

Matteo Calisesi, Technical Business Development
Florim
New York, N.Y.

Natiely Canedo, Florida Sales Manager
StoneHardscapes
Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

Danielle Lancianese, Director of Tile & Stone
Shaw Industries
Dalton, Ga.

Other - Allied Materials (1):

Jordan Richards, Executive Director of Marketing and Design
ProKnee Corporation
Whitefield, Maine

Other - Restoration (1):

Alexander Zambrano, Owner
Fabrizio & Sons Marble and Granite Restoration
New Port Richey, Fla.

Stone Fabricator (1):

Sam Karns, Owner/Fabricator
Pioneer Surfaces
Gibsonia, Pa.

Trade Association (1):

Martha Salazar, Director of Marketing, TCNA-Mexico
TCNA – Mexico
Nuevo Leon, Mexico

The 2022 award recipients will be honored at Coverings 2022, April 5, 4-5:30 p.m. PDT. Coverings attendees are welcome to join the celebration at the awards ceremony and networking reception in the Coverings Lounge, Booth N2914, North Hall.

Recognition for the winners also includes Coverings press content, a year-long professional feature on the Coverings website, postings on Coverings’ social media channels and blog.

A special program geared toward young professionals, “Creating Content that Speaks to Your Audience: The Who, Why & How” will precede the awards ceremony and networking reception. The learning opportunity will cover ways in which emerging talent can develop strategic, creative content for their businesses and brands. It is scheduled for April 5, 3-3:45 p.m., also in the Coverings Lounge, Booth, N2914, North Hall.

To learn more about the Coverings 2022 Rock Stars, visit coverings.com/coverings-rock-stars.

For more information and to register for Coverings 2022 at no cost, visit coverings.com.

The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) has announced that as an added member benefit, all main contractor account holders will now have free access to NTCA University. Each additional subscription will still be $25 per user per year access.

“With so many of our contractor members being one or two person shops, this really is a member benefit that they can use,” said Becky Serbin, NTCA Director of Education and Curriculum.  “NTCA University not only has courses on installing tile but it also offers general business courses such as accounting, human resources, and marketing.”

A feature of NTCA University added this year is the “Toolbox Talks” series of discussions about safety topics like heat exposure, housekeeping, ladder, lifting, knee safety and more. “These courses are still relevant, and we have added them to NTCA University for these same members to download and use,” Serbin said.

Not a member? Contact Jim Olson at jim@tile-assn.com or phone 601.942.2996  for more information about membership. Are you a member who wants to access NTCA University? Click here.

If you are planning to attend The International Surfaces Show (TISE) in Las Vegas, Nevada at Mandalay Bay on February 1-3, 2022, be sure to stop by the National Tile Contractors Association(NTCA) booth #4751 for a van-tastic experience. NTCA is celebrating its 75^th anniversary this year, and the association is ready to roll with unique experiences to mark the occasion.

Live on the show floor, NTCA will host one of its training vans, a 2018 Ford Transit, extra tall and extra long – emblazoned by logos of companies that are currently sponsoring the NTCA Training and Education program. This is the day-to-day vehicle of NTCA Trainer Robb Roderick, who tours the country bringing NTCA workshops and Regional Training Programs to a location near you.

But at TISE, this van will be a centerpiece of the NTCA booth, outfitted just as though it was traveling to a workshop.

“I want contractors who are not familiar with our programs to see the van and ask questions,” said Jim Olson, Assistant Executive Director of the NTCA, who oversees the training programs and scheduling. “Besides being a rolling billboard for our generous program sponsors, the van houses equipment and materials that are used in workshops around the country. At TISE we will open the doors, give small van tours and offer the opportunity to members to record testimonials on-site.

“Contractor attendees who come to our booth will receive a NTCA 75th Anniversary t-shirt, along with some other surprises,” he added.

Meetings and receptions

Other NTCA events at the show will include the meeting of the NTCA Technical Committee on Monday, January 31 in the South Pacific F Room, North Convention Center, from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. This meeting is open to the public. Come join the discussion, see what NTCA is working on to elevate the industry, and let your voice be heard.

That same night, NTCA will hold a reception for its Ambassadors from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Palm Foyer, South Convention Center, Level 3.

NTCA: training on the TISE Live Demo Stage

No TISE is complete without NTCA training sessions on TISE LIVE Demo Stage, and this year is no except. This year the program will focus on Skinny Tile, Exterior Tile and Geometric Tile.

Tuesday, February 1

Skinny Tile – Understanding and Installing

Skinny tiles are catching fire with specifiers and designers and emerging as a new star in the tile industry. These products come in many sizes from 2”x8”, 3”x16” and much larger such as 1’x5’ or more.  In many instances, these skinny tiles offer unique new looks and alternatives to traditional rectangular tiles such as subway tiles.

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.:  Skinny Tile – Understanding

NTCA Staff Trainers team with a designer and manufacturer of skinny tiles to bring you an in-depth understanding of how the tiles are made, how to use them to create beautiful designs and how to specify and install them as the finish of a durable tile system.

1:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.: Skinny Tile – Installing demo

NTCA Staff Trainers demonstrate the proper tools, setting materials, techniques and teamwork needed to layout, cut, score, snap and install skinny tiles of all sizes to produce a long-lasting, industry standards-based installation.

Exterior Tile – Understanding and Installing

Tile installed outside requires in-depth understanding and specialized system considerations to account for all environmental conditions.  Tile installations in areas of high temperature fluctuations with high moisture content and freeze/thaw conditions can fail if the tile and installation methods used are not understood or properly designed, specified and installed.

11 a.m. – 12noon:  Exterior Tile – Understanding

NTCA Staff Trainers and a tile manufacturer will instruct you on the correct selection of tile and installation methods to manage the effects of temperature and moisture on exterior installations.  Large- format porcelain tile in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, along with new methods of installation, will be discussed in detail

2:15 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.: Exterior Tile – Installing demo

NTCA Staff Trainers will show you products and installation techniques using pedestal systems, drainage systems and the sand bed method of installing porcelain tile pavers.

Wednesday, February 2

Geometric Tile – Understanding and Installing

Geometric tile sizes like rectangles, octagons, and especially hexagons have long been a part of the tile industry.  But a recent trend towards large versions of these patterns offers many creative design options for floor and wall tile installations

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.: Geometric Tile – Understanding

Geometric tile sizes like rectangles, octagons, and especially hexagons have long been a part of the tile industry.  But a recent trend towards large versions of these patterns offers many creative design options for floor and wall tile installations.

12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.: Geometric Tile – Installing demo

Learn  how to center a space and lay out a variety of patterns for geometric tile types such as chevrons, hexagons, etc., from NTCA Staff Trainers.

TISE 2022 will follow all local health guidelines, including Nevada’s mandate for masks to be worn in all public  places, regardless of vaccination status.The rule applies to all indoor space, and includes all casinos, meeting spaces and convention centers, and restaurants/bars in Las Vegas and throughout Nevada.  

To find out more about TISE, visit www.intlsurfaceevent.com. Be sure to come by NTCA booth #4751, tour the van, meet NTCA staff and trainers and learn more about how NTCA can help support your business and industry knowledge. 

The FCEF website explains that “This 10-week program is designed to introduce students to the four major types of flooring materials and basic installation skills needed to succeed as a flooring craftsman. The program will be held at Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Whitfield Murray Campus in Dalton, Ga.”

A training program summary on the site notes that the “program introduces students to the flooring installation industry and equips them with the skills needed to perform carpet, resilient, hardwood, and tile installations.  For carpet installation, topics covered include carpet installation tools, proper use of tools, installation of track strips and cushions, measuring and estimating, identifying, cutting, and seaming various types of carpet materials.  From there, students move on to resilient flooring topics, including resilient flooring types, moisture identification, cutting, adhesives and grout, dead zone and floating floors, and measuring and estimating.  For hardwood surfaces, students will gain knowledge and skills in nail, glue, and floating installation, as well as buffing, staining, sealing, and finishing surfaces.  When learning tile installation, emphasis is placed on safety tools, substrate prep, layout, tile cutting, mortar, and grout application.  A modeled real-world lab environment is utilized to reinforce and apply learned skills and techniques. Upon successful completion of training, students will gain meaningful employment and receive a Floor Covering Education Foundation (FCEF) Basic Flooring Installation Certificate of Completion from Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC).”

Becky Serbin, Education and Curriculum Director for the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) , attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony on behalf of NTCA and the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF).

“This class was learning about self leveling underlayments (SLU), with an ARDEX rep on hand to help teach for the day,” Serbin said. CTEF has submitted course content for the 2-week tile installation portion of the course.

Dave Garden, a Certified Flooring Installer (CFI) Master Installer, is taking the lead in instructing the course for the first two cohorts of this class, and is working to help secure a permanent teacher for the college. Garden is also certified with the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA).

Currently, there are two cohorts planned for training, with schedules as follows:

Cohort 1 (Spring Semester):  January 10 – March 18, Monday – Friday, from 8:00 am – 2:30 pm

• 1 Week of Introduction to the floor covering industry      January 10^th – 14^th
• 2 Week of Carpet                                                         January 17^th – 28^th
• 2 Week of Resilient                                                      January 31^st -February 11^th
• 2 Week Hardwood                                                        February 14^th – 25^th
• 2 Week Tile                                                                  February 28^th – March 11^th
• 1 Week Review and next steps                                       March 14^th – 18^th

Cohort 2 (Summer Semester):  May 16 – July 22, Monday – Friday, from 8:00 am – 2:30 pm

• 1 Week of Introduction to the floor covering industry      May 16^th -20th
• 2 Week of Carpet                                                         May 23^rd – June 3^rd
• 2 Week of Resilient                                                       June 6^th – 17^th
• 2 Week Hardwood                                                        June 20^th – July 1^st
• 2 Week Tile                                                                 July 5^th -July 15^th
• 1 Week Review and next steps                                      July 18^th – July 22^nd

For local coverage of the school and this new class, click here. For more information, go to FCEF’s dedicated webpage here. 

Starting this month, NTCA is initiating a fundraiser to support Tile Heritage Foundation (THF) and the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) in a unique format. The Tile Artistry coloring book features art tile designs to color, from members of THF Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the tile industry in general. Also featured are several mosaic creations from tile artisans to color.

Timed for holiday gift giving, the 68-page book highlights 32 colorable designs – complete with color key at the back – with contact information for the tile artists and artisans who created the works. LATICRETE is generously sponsoring the project to cover printing costs, so all proceeds can go to the two named organizations.

 “We at the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) wanted to support the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) and its work in educating, training and certifying tile installers, as well as the research and preservation of the rich legacy of tile that is carried out by the Tile Heritage Foundation (THF),” said Lesley Goddin, Editor of TileLetter and originator of the concept.  “We sought to celebrate the stunning designs of tile artists and artisans which characterize our industry in a fresh way. We also recognized that the world has been through a tough time lately, and we wanted to encourage serenity, relaxation, rejuvenation and playfulness. Hence, Tile Artistry was born. This project supports training, education, and preservation in the industry, and health in the workplace and at home by the calming practice of coloring!”

TileLetter Art Director Michelle Chapman arranged and formatted the selected submissions into a dynamic collection of designs to color.

Tile Artistry is available for $15 each – shipping included - beginning November 8 at the NTCA website www.tile-assn.com. Navigate to the NTCA Online Store, or enter either of these links in your browser at www.tile-assn.com/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=19271079 or https://bit.ly/303oBxa.

On the commercial side, the winner is Gary Fox, of Fox Ceramic Tile in St. Marys, Kans., while the recipient in the residential category is Jay Cerda of Cox Tile in San Antonio, Texas. 

Winners will be recognized during the NTCA Annual Meeting at Total Solutions Plus, in Jacksonville, running from October 24-26, 2021.

Judges who scored nominees in the competition included residential judges Matt Blood, Paragon Tile and Shannon Huffstickler, Schluter Systems, and commercial judges Adam Abell, Bostik, and Kent Klaser, Klaser Consulting.

Judging criteria for the awards included the following factors:

• 15 years or more setting tile, and continuing to set tile as part of job today
• Technical Correctness of tile installations
• Craftsmanship/Artistry
• Ability to Resolve Tile Installation Problems
• Self-Improvement/Continuing Education
• Mentoring/Leading Others

Gary Fox was nominated for the award by Kevin Fox, Owner and President, Fox Ceramic Tile, while Cerda was nominated by John Cox, Owner, Cox Tile. Both winners hailed from NTCA Five-Star contractor member companies.

Gary Fox, Fox Ceramic Tile

Gary Fox is more than an outstanding craftsman, industry veteran, and friend to Kevin Fox – he is also his highly-respected uncle. He entered the trade at 14, launched his career after graduation and was already running his own commercial projects in his early 20s, wowing superintendents with his skill and savvy. Though Gary now works on Kevin’s team today, he calls Gary his mentor “and a true leader within our company and industry.”

Kevin credits all of the most profitable and major Fox Ceramic Tile accounts to Gary’s efforts over the years; and is in awe of his outstanding mentoring, contribution to the company culture of demanding outstanding installations from everyone in the company, and the way he has led by example over 45 years. Kevin says Gary excels not only in the challenging technical work and situations, but also when dealing with challenging personalities.

A senior foreman since 1992, he acted as foreman for the company’s several award winning projects and his work was once featured on the cover of the American Olean Ceramic Tile Trim catalog.

He earned his CTI (#649) in 2011, prompting everyone else in the company to follow his lead. “He sets the example for all by the way he conducts himself, both personally and professionally,” said Kevin, never considering any task too small, and giving all on the job in an organized way. The number of his enduring projects as an elite craftsman is only matched by his “ability to teach, nurture and grow other exceptional craftsmen to make our industry better and better, year after year,” Kevin said.

Jay Cerda, Cox Tile

Cerda got his start in the tile industry right out of high school with Cox Tile, transitioning from helper to apprentice to setter to his current title of Master Tile Setter. He is also distinguished by as Certified Tile Installer (CTI) #719.

As lead tile setter, Cerda has been instrumental in training many Cox Tile setters and supporting and facilitating their education as they worked with him as helpers. Many have gone on attain their CTI credentials as well. “All our employees look to Jay not only for his positive leadership but for his expertise when it comes to challenging and unique issues,” John Cox commented.

Cerda’s passion for perfection makes him an essential lead in the company’s most complex jobs, and he excels in mudwork for both walls and floors. He has helped the company achieve recognition for several  awards. He also worked on the challenging Installation Showcase at Coverings in 2010, pitting his knowledge and skills against a tight time frame and limited resources. 

He’s known for his pursuit of education, attending local seminars and events by suppliers to learn about new products and installation techniques. Not only does he attend every NTCA Workshop and training in San Antonio, he also helps NTCA staff with setup and tear down.

At home, Cerda enjoys time with wife Krista and daughters Stacie and Jordan, fishing and visiting the beach.

Jay Cerda		Jay Cerda's Project

Gary Fox		AO Catalog Cover

Gary Fox’s work was featured on the American Olean Ceramic Tile Trim Catalog cover in the early 1990s.

As the first webinar in the Tile Academy, “Designing with Tile and Natural Stone for Elegance, Vibrancy and Style,” will explore the specification of tile and stone in four unique projects. The presenters will discuss how tile and stone met the design goals in unique ways, from creating visual excitement in a Bronx, N.Y., community center, to enhancing a stately history home owned by Henry Ford's son, to elevating South Florida estates to a modern tropical elegance.  

Amber Fox, NTCA Five-Star Contractor Program Director, who spearheaded this program with Architectural Record said, “The NTCA and Five-Star Program has taken a new approach this year in our outreach. We have built a well-rounded program that covers the many layers that contribute to a successful project such as material selection, installation system, methods and standards and how using qualified labor can help to bring all these components together.  We’re eager to see how our Tile Academy impacts the tile industry.” NTCA Members who acquire Five-Star Company Recognition status must complete a comprehensive application that demonstrates a proven track record of success in tile and stone installation and business management.

Speakers and topics for the webinar include:
• Ben Grobe, AIA, and Amanda Key, Principals, The Smith Group -- Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, Grosse Point Shores, Michigan.
• Kirsten Youngren, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, CPHC, Architect, FX Collaborative  -- YMCA, Bronx, New York project
• Ralph Choeff, AIA, Founding Principal, Choeff Levy Fischman -- Bal Harbour Residence in Bal Harbour, Fla., and the North Bay Residence in Miami Beach.

The learning objectives for this webinar include:
• Identifying four projects where tile and stone helped achieve the program's design goals and performance needs. 
• Describing stone options that can help create a high-end modern tropical residence. 
• Discussing how colorful tiled walls add energy and excitement to a community center. 
• Defining the qualities of tile that help maintain the stateliness of a 1920s estate.
Attendees earn 1 AIA LU/Elective; Canadian Architects: 1 Learning Hour

The six Tile Academy courses delve into known pitfalls of specification, tile industry standards and how to use them and the latest trends in tile.  The Tile Academy will be active for a year and additional webinars and mixed media pieces will be added during that time to bring fresh content and education to the A&D community. 

Visit the Tile Academy at https://bit.ly/3A3mRQh

Read more about the “Designing with Tile and Natural Stone for Elegance, Vibrancy and Style,” webinar and register at  https://bit.ly/3ipiSHG

NTCA is a leading trade association in the ceramic tile industry with more than 1500 members, representing thousands of tile and stone installers.  www.tile-assn.com.

 “It was so exciting to be able to gather together again this year to celebrate our recipients,” said NTCA Executive Director Bart Bettiga.  “Coverings is a special event and we are delighted to be a sponsoring association of the show.”

Brad Denny, Vice President of Nichols Tile and Terrazzo of Joelton, Tenn., was honored as the NTCA Tile Person of the Year.  Denny was cited for his work on the ANSI A108 subcommittee and the NTCA Apprenticeship Program, as well as being a mentor to younger members of the association and a positive influencer on social media. 2020 NTCA Tile Person of the Year Martin Brookes, of Heritage Marble & Tile, Inc., Mill Valley, Calif., presented the award.

NTCA presented a Special Recognition Award to Lee and Jane Callewaert of Dragonfly Tile and Stone in Milwaukee, Wis., and Joshua Nordstrom of Tierra Tile in Homer, Alaska.  The three collaborated with NTCA on a special virtual artisanship project that was assembled throughout the week and streamed live from Dragonfly’s studio in Wisconsin to attendees in the Coverings Lounge.

Leo Reynaga (Residential) of Visalia Tile and Stone of Visalia, Calif., and Ferid Hasic (Commercial) of Grazzini Brothers of Minneapolis, Minn., were honored as the Second Annual NTCA Craftspersons of the Year. The award was announced in 2020, but both craftsmen were honored for installation excellence at the 2021 show.

Three deserving students were named as the 2021 NTCA Tom Ade Ceramic Tile Scholarship recipients and each received a $5,000 scholarship. Jacob Fox – son of Kevin and Jolene Fox, Fox Tile, St., Marys, Kan., Christopher Walker, son of Christopher and Elena Walker of David Allen Company, Raleigh, N.C., and Amanda Mourelatos, daughter of John and Valerie Mourelatos, Mourelatos Tile, Tucscon, Ariz., were honored for outstanding academic and community achievement in their respective communities with these awards.

NTCA is a leading trade association in the ceramic tile industry with more than 1500 members, representing thousands of tile and stone installers.  www.tile-assn.com.

Ed Metcalf, special advisor for LATICRETE North America, is the 2021 recipient of the National Tile Contractors Association Joe A. Tarver Service to the Industry Award.  Metcalf has been with LATICRETE North America for more than 35 years and served as President from 2005 until June of this year.

In his role as President, Metcalf has supported the NTCA in numerous ways.  He served two terms as a manufacturer representative on the NTCA Board of Directors.  Under his direction, LATICRETE has played a leading role in supporting NTCA training and education initiatives throughout the country. 

“It is an honor to receive this recognition, as Joe Tarver was one of my idols in this industry when I began my career,” said Metcalf.  “Having my name associated with Joe is very humbling and rewarding.” 

Joe Tarver served as NTCA Executive Director from 1972-2002.  Under his direction the NTCA launched national and regional training programs and became known internationally for its role in promoting the proper installation of ceramic tile. 

“I cannot think of a single time when LATICRETE did not support a major initiative that we asked them for help with in my almost 20-year career with the association,” said current NTCA Executive Director Bart Bettiga.  “Ed Metcalf is primarily responsible for much of this support, and it has been an honor to work with him on so many levels. His leadership and contributions to both LATICRETE and our industry will be felt for many years to come.” The NTCA Joe A. Tarver Service to the Industry Award is given annually at COVERINGS in a special awards presentation.  Metcalf joins previous honorees in this special club, which also includes the late Henry Rothberg, founder of LATICRETE International.  NTCA is a leading trade association in the ceramic tile industry with more than 1500 members, representing thousands of tile and stone installers.  www.tile-assn.com.

Custom Building Products is an industry leader in flooring preparation products and tile and stone installations systems for residential and commercial projects. www.custombuildingproducts.com

NTCA is a leading trade association in the ceramic tile industry with more than 1500 members, representing thousands of tile and stone installers.  www.tile-assn.com.

Bettiga explained that the award had traditionally been given at the Coverings trade show, but that was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Brookes showed the Tile Person of the Year award -- which he had received by mail -- to the video audience, saying, “I am humbled and honored to receive this award and be recognized by my peers in an industry I have been active in for almost 40 years. It’s a privilege to be so recognized by my colleagues and friends. I am overwhelmed. Thank you.”

Bettiga explained the Brookes was being recognized for 10 years of work for NTCA behind the scenes, and that accepting the role as president is a commitment for another 10 years of service. NTCA presidents move up through the chairs in two-year term increments, from 2^nd Vice President to 1^st Vice President to President, and then serve two years as Chairman of the Board, and afterwards as Advisory Board members.

Brookes has built a resume of achievements and activities that represent commitment and passion for the tile and stone industry. His career began in England in 1978 when he attended the Chesterfield College of Technology, earning a City and Guilds of London Institute diploma in Masonry Construction. Brookes left the United Kingdom for San Francisco in 1994, where he started work for a masonry company as superintendent and, in 1997, obtained a California State License for Masonry (C29) and Tile (C54).

In 1996, Brookes became a principal at Heritage Marble & Tile, a premiere tile installation company with a focus on detail, in Mill Valley, in the San Francisco Bay Area. Brookes is committed to his installers’ training through continuing education and product manufacturer seminars.

Heritage employs Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) Certified Tile Installers (CTIs) with Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT) crew members. The company is a current member of the National Tile Contractors Association Five-Star contractor group of elite tile installation contractors. Heritage Marble & Tile is known throughout the San Francisco Bay Area for quality installations and being willing to take on the most challenging projects.

Brookes is a Recognized Industry Consultant and currently sits on the NTCA Technical Committee as part of the Methods and Standards Committee, and serves on the ANSI A108 Committee. He is a member of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification as an Inspector for stone and ceramic tile.

Brookes served as Regional Director for NTCA from 2012 – 2015, as well as the National Tile Contractors Association Membership Committee Chairperson. He served as Stone Ceramic Inspector Chair for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification from 2011 – 2019.

Family is also very important to Brookes, who stated, “I have been blessed working in an industry that I love and to have a family that has supported my professional career. My wife Carmen is a Professor of Psychology at UCSF and has also had a successful career in research. My children Joseph and Chloe make me proud everyday with their accomplishments.”

See the video of Brookes accepting his award and chronicling his career at: https://youtu.be/kf9h746s8Tw

# # #

The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a non-profit trade association serving every segment of the industry, spearheading education for the professional installation of ceramic tile, natural stone and allied products.  For more information, please contact NTCA executive director Bart Bettiga at bart@tile-assn.com, via telephone at (601) 939-2071, or visit www.tile-assn.com.

Mary is only the second woman to receive this prestigious award. This well-deserved recognition is derived from Mary’s active participation and support of leading trade associations such as the NTCA and the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), where she was a two-time President.

“Mary has devoted her time and energy to the entire tile industry and is highly deserving of this recognition,” says Bart Bettiga, Executive Director of the NTCA. “As both a distribution and manufacturing representative, Mary has worked closely with the tile contracting community and has helped communicate the need for hiring qualified and trained installers to the design, building, specification and architectural community. Mary has actively promoted qualified labor language in the specifications and has supported the importance of industry certification offered by the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation.”

“I am beyond humbled,” Mary says while discussing award. “Firstly, it’s the Joe Tarver Award! I worked with Joe and have a great deal of respect for him and all he did for the tile industry.  All the people who have received this award prior to me have committed themselves generously to the industry. I am so grateful and extremely humbled to be in their company.”

Marco Ludwig, President and CEO of Schluter-Systems North America, congratulated Mary on receiving the award. “Over the years Mary has formed countless deep and meaningful relationships and it doesn’t take long to realize just how well respected she is in the tile industry. Her dedication and commitment to improving the industry makes her an excellent choice for the Joe Tarver Award. We, at Schluter- Systems are fortunate to benefit from Mary’s knowledge, experience and enthusiasm.”

The NTCA has produced a video of highlights from Mary’s impressive career in the tile industry and providing insight into her life and character:  https://youtu.be/nbBA0JIYL-U

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The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a non-profit trade association serving every segment of the industry, spearheading education for the professional installation of ceramic tile, natural stone and allied products.  For more information, please contact NTCA executive director Bart Bettiga at bart@tile-assn.com, via telephone at (601) 939-2071, or visit www.tile-assn.com.

This year’s program features one $5,000 Grand Prize scholarship winner, as well as several $1,000 winners.

The Grand Prize Winner is Kimberly Callahan, daughter of Wei Callahan and stepdaughter of Woody Sanders, president of DW Sanders Tile & Stone Contracting in Marietta, Ga. Kimberley has just completed her first year toward a Master’s degree in Social Work, with an emphasis in Clinical Psychology.

    

The $1,000 scholarship winners include the following:

° Sadee Perez, daughter of Sally Perez, Human Resources, of Visalia Ceramic Tile in Visalia, Calif. She also works at Visalia Ceramic Tile on a part-time basis.

° Meghan Lowery, daughter of William and Emily Lowery. William Lowery is an NTCA member and owner of Lowery Tile in Alsip, Ill.

° Hailey Peffer, daughter of Meredith Peffer, general manager of NTCA Associate Member, NAC Products, Akron, Ohio.

° Alera Welch, who is the daughter of Dan and Doreen Welch of Welch Tile & Marble, Kent City, Michigan.

° Emily Martinho, daughter of Edward Martinho, vice president of Visalia Ceramic Tile.

Congratulations from the industry

Bart Bettiga, NTCA Executive Director said of the Grand Prize Winner, “I wish Kim the best of luck and good health as she endeavors to make a difference. This world needs her talent.”

Ron Nash, senior vice president of sales and marketing for LATICRETE, an NTCA member and supporter of the scholarship program, said, “This is fantastic. I couldn’t be happier to be part of an organization that supports our industry and, even more importantly, the people who make our industry great.”

Woody Sanders added, “Kim has such a very special heart for people who need help,” he added, “She has an ability to step into another’s shoes and see their perspective and is driven to help while holding onto her values. She is an inspiration that gives me hope for our future. She is so very special.”

COVID delays

The Tom Ade Scholarship Awards were delayed this year due to complications of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bettiga said, which led to having only one Grand Prize winner. “However,” he explained, “we have decided to choose several $1,000 scholarship award recipients, as the quality of the applicants and their deservedness for financial support was outstanding.

“We all need a little good news right now,” added Bettiga, “so celebrating these young people is coming at the right time.”

Funds for the Tom Ade Scholarship Awards are made possible through the generous donations of NTCA members: total donations determine the number of scholarship recipients each year. Scholarship applications are reviewed by a committee of NTCA’s Board of Directors, as well as members of the NTCA staff.

The Tom Ade ceramic tile scholarship was established by the NTCA to provide educational opportunities for children or grandchildren of NTCA Contractor Members. Tom Ade is a former NTCA regional director and a previous recipient of the organization’s Ring Of Honor and Tile Person of the Year Awards. The scholarship also encompasses a contribution to the educational institution of choice for the applicant.

Caption: Kimberly Callahan, stepdaughter of Woody Sanders, president of DW Sanders Tile & Stone Contracting in Marietta, Ga., is NTCA’s $5,000 Grand Prize Tom Ade Scholarship Award winner for 2020. 

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to negatively impact businesses and individuals around the world, Confindustria Ceramica and EdiCer SpA have decided to postpone Cersaie - the world’s largest international exhibition of ceramic tile and bathroom furnishings - which was originally slated for September 28 to October 2 in Bologna, Italy. The new dates for Cersaie 2020 will be November 9-13, and the adapted format will include lectures and programming focused on ceramic tile as a hygienic solution for the future of architecture and design. 

The decision to postpone Cersaie comes after much deliberation and a careful analysis of the current global health situation. Although Italy has entered phase 2 of its COVID-19 response with production resuming and select businesses reopening, social distancing laws remain in effect. The show organizers have agreed that postponement is the best solution to preserve the welfare of Cersaie’s international participants and allow more time for economic recovery. 

Drumming up excitement for the show, Cersaie is publishing some great content on their YouTube channel including an ongoing series of talks with design and architecture firms around the world and keynotes from past editions of the fair, such as Renzo Piano, Kazuyo Sejima, and more. Please also follow Cersaie on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for updates and even more video content related to Cersaie 2020.  

For more information, please download our press release. Let us know if you would like to set up an interview - Giovanni Savorani, Chairman of Confindustria Ceramica, is available for quotes. We look forward to attending Cersaie in November and can’t wait to experience so many new solutions and creative innovations in ceramic tile. Thank you! 

Best,
Chris, Kristin, Caroline + Emma

Coverings Connected Schedule

Visit our webinar page to access recordings of sessions that took place earlier in the week.

Today we are featuring the following opportunities:

Live Webinars

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EDT

Application and Specification of Tile for Outdoor Use

Martin Brookes, President, Heritage Marble & Tile and Woody Sanders, President, DW Sanders Tile & Stone Contracting

12:30 – 1:30 p.m. EDT

Acting on the NTCA Culture Survey – Leadership in the Face of COVID-19

Wally Adamchik, President, Firestarter Speaking and Consulting

2:00 - 3:00 p.m. EDT

Don’t Let Water Be the Boss: Wet Area Tile Installation

Mark Heinlein, Technical Director, National Tile Contractors Association

On-Demand Content

Coverings Connected on-demand content provides resources specific to the tile & stone industry as well as general business and marketing information.

You can choose sessions most pertinent to your current challenges including: Global Tile Trends, Large Format Tile and Stone Installations, Tips and Apps for Productivity, How to Use the TCNA Handbook, Installation Trends Tour, Influencing the Influencers and so much more. Don’t miss out on all of the complimentary content to help you build your business.

Engage Interviews

Join Irene Williams as she chats with leaders from across the tile industry.

Digital Demo Stage

One of the most popular features at Coverings, we’ve converted the Live Installation Demonstration Stage into a Digital Demonstration Stage with how-to videos and product demonstrations.

First up, at 11 a.m. – 12: 00 p.m. EDT, Martin Brookes, president of NTCA Five-Star Contractor Heritage Marble & Tile and Woody Sanders, president of NTCA Five-Star Contractor DW Sanders Tile & Stone Contracting will present a live session on the Application and Specification of Tile for Outdoor Use. Exterior living spaces and outdoor living is a growing trend that offers outstanding opportunity for ceramic tile and natural stone. However, there are inherent complications requiring you to implement strategies for installation that will succeed. New technology and systems have recently been introduced that can improve the likelihood of success and control the cost of installation as well. This session will examine the technology and the installer planning and training that must take place to be successful. Continuing Education Credits AIA: 1.0 LUs HSW IDCEC: 1.0 CEU Hours.  Click here to register.

Then from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. EDT, Wally Adamchik, president of Firestarter Speaking and Consulting will explore Acting on the NTCA Culture Survey – Leadership in the Face of COVID-19.  Join this session to learn the results of NTCA-commissioned research on company culture in tile contractors across the country. Gallup reports that only 30% of workers are engaged at work. Is the construction industry even worse? Learn how people (our most important asset) in the tile industry are feeling, and how it compares to the construction industry as a whole. What is the state of the industry from a leadership and culture perspective? And what are the current and future impacts of COVID-19 on labor. Get the good, the bad and the opportunities. Attend this data-rich session to gain ideas on how to assess and improve your company to recruit, retain and engage your employees. Continuing Education Credits AIA: 1.0 LUs IDCEC: 1.0 CEU Hours Click here to register.

Finally, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. EDT Mark Heinlein, NTCA Technical Director will offer an informative and practical session  with Don’t Let Water Be the Boss: Wet Area Tile Installation. Water goes where it wants to go and does what it wants to do. You don’t want water to be the boss in your wet area installations. Learn the  information you need to be the boss and properly control water in your wet area tile installations. Continuing Education Credits AIA: 1.0 LUs HSW Click here to register.

Click the links to register or visit coverings.com and click on Learning Opportunities for the day desired. 

Live Webinars
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EDT
Economics 20/20
Elliot Eisenberg, PhD, Chief Economist, GraphsandLaughs, LLC

12:30 – 1:30 p.m. EDT
Trend Hacks: How to Spot Trends that Will Impact Your Business
James Dion, President and Owner, Dionco, Inc.

On-Demand Content

Coverings Connected on-demand content provides resources specific to the tile & stone industry as well as general business and marketing information.

You can choose sessions most pertinent to your current challenges including: Global Tile Trends, Large Format Tile and Stone Installations, Tips and Apps for Productivity, How to Use the TCNA Handbook, Installation Trends Tour, Influencing the Influencers and so much more. Don’t miss out on all of the complimentary content to help you build your business.

Engage Interviews

Join Irene Williams as she chats with leaders from across the tile industry.

Digital Demo Stage

One of the most popular features at Coverings, we’ve converted the Live Installation Demonstration Stage into a Digital Demonstration Stage with how-to videos and product demonstrations.

Prior to the update, the IBC limited adhered porcelain tile to a maximum of 24 inches on one side and a maximum of 3 square feet per tile. In common tile sizes, that means the largest permissible tiles were 20 inches x 20 inches and 12 inches x 24 inches. Advances in porcelain tile manufacturing have resulted in extremely large and extremely thin tiles, as thin as 1/8 inch, now being widely available. Moreover, tile setting mortar is now more resistant to tensile and shear forces, thanks to advances in polymer- modified Portland cement mortar technology.

The combination of these factors – thinner, lighter tiles and stronger mortars – already allow larger tiles to be successfully adhered to exterior facades. The 2021 IBC will make it possible for designers and builders to specify such without requiring the code variance process. 

With this update, designers, building owners, and construction professionals will have more flexibility to select tile as an alternative to precast concrete, metal panels, and other materials for building exteriors, expanding the tile market and work opportunities for qualified tile contractors and installers. 

About Tile Council of North America (TCNA)   TCNA is a trade association representing manufacturers of ceramic tile, tile installation materials, tile equipment, raw materials and other tile-related products. Established in 1945 as the Tile Council of America (TCA), it became the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) in 2003, reflecting its membership expansion to all of North America. 

The Tile Council is recognized for its leadership role in facilitating the development of North American and international industry quality standards to benefit tile consumers. Additionally, TCNA regularly conducts independent research and product testing, works with regulatory, trade, and other government agencies, and publishes installation guidelines, tile standards, economic reports, and promotional literature.

About International Masonry Institute (IMI) IMI, the labor-management partnership of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) and its signatory contractors, is committed to growing the market share of work for union contracting companies and their employees.