The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF), a hub for tile training.


The Tile Council of North America (TCNA), National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) are collaborating to address the persistent shortage of qualified installers.

In addition to financial support, TCNA and the NTCA have vowed to provide two instructors to CTEF: Stephanie Samulski and Gerald Sloan. They will teach courses and workshops that deliver hands-on techniques and the latest information on standards.

“Over the past 10 years, the number of tile installers have not kept pace with large increases in the amount of tile manufactured abroad and sold in the U.S.,” says Eric Astrachan, executive director of TCNA. “The continued growth of CTEF, however, will have a positive impact on quality installation education and the future growth of the tile market.”

“CTEF’s objective is to expand our curriculum and course availability on an even greater national scope with this infusion of resources and financial support,” says Dave Gobis, executive director of CTEF. “We have grown due to the generous support of manufacturers and the Tile Council, but this new surge of industry support will take us to the next level.”