By Bart Bettiga, executive director, National Tile Contractors Association
I have been the executive director of the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) for more than 20 years. For much of that time, it sometimes felt like we were pulling teeth trying to get tile contractors, distributors and manufacturers to commit to host or participate in training programs. I am pleased to report this is no longer the case. In 2023, both the NTCA and the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) will offer more workshops, seminars, training events and certifications than ever in our history.
Technological advancements in ceramic tile manufacturing are creating exciting new opportunities to grow the market in the U.S. The advantages of ceramic, porcelain and glass tile in a wide array of sizes, shapes and thicknesses are being realized by designers, specifiers and consumers on floors and walls in both interior and exterior applications. Tile is an ideal selection for residential and commercial applications as well due to its durability and low level of maintenance requirements when installed correctly.
Due to a changing workforce that is aging out faster than we are replenishing it, coupled with all the new technology being offered to the installation community, the need for training is more prevalent than ever. We are meeting this need with the most aggressive training schedule we have ever offered, partnering with manufacturers of tile and installation materials, and with the support of distributors and retailers who recognize the need for these programs.
In 2023, the NTCA has organized its training schedule to include more than 175 FREE evening workshops, over 50 full-day regional hands-on training events, and 13 specialized two-day Glass Tile Panel Installation trainings. Additionally, we are sponsoring and supporting custom training programs in artistic tile installations and mosaics, business education training, and emerging leadership training for the next generation of the workforce entering our market—or transitioning into management and ownership positions.
Workshop topics include:
- Failures—Could It Be Me?
- The Ins and Outs of Layout
- Tile Matters—Best Practices for Pros
- Tile Technology—Adhesives
Regional training topics include:
- Gauged Porcelain Tile Panels and Slabs (GPTP) Installation
- Substrate Preparation and Large-Format Tile
NTCA is also adding exterior hardscapes and tile installation training in late 2023 and plans to incorporate this into the 2024 schedule. AIA and IDCEC credits will be available upon request where available.
The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation has added two new installer course levels for 2023. These will be held at their Clemson, S.C., facility.
- 100-Level (Tile Foundations): Dates Available are April 3-7 and August 7-11
- One week program for Apprentices and Finishers that covers the components of year one for a ceramic tile tradesperson.
- 200-Level (Practical Series): June 12-16 and August 21-25
- The next step in the tile installation professional’s career. It prepares them for the Certified Tile Installer test while focusing on skills needed to succeed as a full-time installer during years one to three.
- 400-Level (Ceramic Tile Inspection Course): Week of June 26 and week of July 31
- Focuses on using documents and standards and performing forensic investigations to conduct jobsite inspections. One of these courses will be held in Clemson, S.C., and one at a West Coast facility to be named at a later date.
Go to www.tileschool.org for an updated schedule.
Take advantage of this opportunity to attend FREE NTCA Workshops and Regional Training Events near you to elevate your skill level and raise your professionalism. Check out the NTCA programs and schedule on our website at www.tile-assn.com and click on the Event Calendar.
