“I am thankful that in a troubled world no calamity can prevent the return of spring.”
~Helen Keller
Welcome to March, the season of spring, more daylight, and stirrings of new life!
Our issue this month has a dual focus—an emphasis on technology that can streamline your workflow, and a look at some of the women who are making major inroads and impacts in our industry.
One of those women is Hilary Frank, Vice President of Commercial Sales and Business Development at Daltile and NTCA Board Member. Read more about her career path in Bart Bettiga’s One-to-One story.
Tile contractor Rachel Overby of R&R Tile and Renovations in Anchorage, Alaska, has built a thriving business based on trust, excellence, and amplifying women in the industry. She also earned her CTI#1980 last March at the All-Women’s CTI test on International Women’s Day. Meet her in our Member Feature.
Our technology content starts with our cover feature from LATICRETE that outlines many of the offerings and resources the company offers the contractor. From there, hop on over to our Business story penned by Jihan Spearman, who is Director, Associate General Counsel at Houzz, Inc. She discusses what every tile installer needs to know and include in their contracts, and how Houzz Pro’s Contracts features can help.
In his Technical story, CTEF’s Scott Carothers explores innovations in the tile industry—from AI software to tools, to systems that streamline tile projects. And the NTCA Technical Team brings its wisdom about drilling into glass and successful garage tile installations to the Ask the Expert section.
In the practice of the tile setting craft, technology can help tile setters bridge the gap between concept and execution. Read about the experiences and wisdom from tile artisans who use software, machinery, and other technologies to bring their clients’ dreams to fruition.
NTCA President Rod Owen wraps up his Business Acumen Series with an exploration of Ethical Acumen: what it is, why it’s important, and how to employ it in your business.
At the end of this month, the tile industry will descend on the Las Vegas Convention Center for Coverings, the ultimate tile expo and experience for North America. Whether you go for the new tile and accessory products, the education, the networking, the demos, the awards and all the other activities, just be sure you go! It takes place March 30–April 2. Look for the NTCA and TileLetter teams at booth #4070, and everywhere on the show floor.
I look forward to seeing you in Vegas!
Lesley Goddin has been writing and journaling since her first diary at age 11. Her journey has taken her through a career in publishing and publicity, landing her the editor position of TileLetter and its special publications in 2006. Her goal is to educate, inspire, recognize and encourage those in the tile industry -- especially the tile and stone contractor.
