The National Tile Contractors Association has welcomed its first four contractors into the trade group's Five Star Program. Designed to recognize those committed to enhancing training, service, quality, job performance and safety, the four contractors will receive a logo for their letterhead, a marketing piece, and special inclusion in the NTCA online member locator.

The contractors who have joined the program are: Dan Welch of Welch Tile & Marble in Kent City, Mich.; J. Mark Phillips of J.P. Phillips, Canonsburg, Pa.; Matt Snell of Dalene Flooring, based in South Windsor, Conn.; and Frank Fazi of F.D. Berardino Tile Inc., in Eastpointe, Mich.

“The NTCA Five Star Program was created by our Board of Directors as a way to recognize companies in our Association with a proven track record of excellence in our trade,” said Bart Bettiga, executive director of the NTCA.  “As the program grows in stature and reputation, the NTCA will market and promote their Five Star Members throughout the industry, creating a tangible marketing and sales benefit for those qualified companies that take the time to submit their firm for consideration.  Our initial launch of the program has generated significant interest amongst our members, and we are committed to spreading the word about the quality of work and ethical business practices of our Five Star Members.”

The Five Star program is open to all NTCA members. Initial criteria for consideration into the program include active membership with NTCA (three-year minimum), participation in the Profit Planning Survey, five years minimum in the tile contracting business, proof of ability to be bonded (if applicable), demonstration of active safety program, written copy of safety program, continuing education and training program, as well as proof of active participation in educational seminars and events such as Coverings, Total Solutions, and NTCA workshops. For more information, e-mail NTCA membership director Bob Brown at bob@tile-assn.com, call (601) 939-2071, or visit www.tile-assn.com.