“In a fast-paced, mass-produced world, creating high-quality, lasting work is deeply fulfilling. Becoming a craftsperson or tile artisan is a lifelong journey of learning, creativity, and dedication which is both challenging and rewarding.” – Jeff Occhipinti, Residential NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year, 2024
Last October, at Total Solutions Plus in Boston, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) announced the recipients of the 2024 NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year awards. This award, which began in 2019, is designed to honor exceptional tile professionals for their dedication, craftsmanship, and industry leadership.
For 2024, Juan “Junior” Mercado from Christian Brothers Flooring & Interiors in Lakeside, Calif., was chosen as the Commercial Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year, and Jeff Occhipinti from Columbia River Tile & Stone in Portland, Ore., was selected as the Residential Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year. Each honoree will receive their award at the Ambassador Reception this month on January 27, 2025, during The International Surface Event (TISE) in Las Vegas.
Commercial Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year: Juan Mercado
Juan Mercado has dedicated over 25 years to the tile industry, advancing from an apprentice to a superintendent at Christian Brothers Flooring & Interiors. Known for his commitment to quality and precision, Mercado holds one of the earliest Certified Tile Installer certifications (CTI #63), which highlights his dedication to setting industry standards. For over six years, Mercado has led high-profile commercial projects, including the iconic Petco Park in San Diego, where he applied his expertise to challenging exterior sandstone installations and complex architectural designs.
“The fundamentals of craftsmanship are a combination of skills, attention to detail and knowledge of the trade,” Mercado explained. “This results in high-quality craftsmanship.”
Mercado’s ability to identify and resolve construction issues has earned him respect among clients and colleagues alike. On a recent multi-family project, he insisted on adjustments to the backer board and devised a custom mortar bed system to ensure compliance with TCNA standards, despite schedule pressures.
Mercado’s focus on safety, quality, and training extends to his role as a mentor, where he guides apprentices in technical skills and instills a strong work ethic. Mercado integrates his role as a hands-on craftsperson and a mentor by “starting with a positive attitude, leading and showing good habits (including something as small as clean tools) and techniques for any task required,” he said.
His favorite part of his craft is “creating something beautiful out of simple materials. The finished product!” He added, “Seeing a tile project that I have been a part of and how it endures is a testament to the beauty of the world of tile and its longevity,” said Mercado.
He encourages others to consider a career in tile setting. “The tile business is a great trade to be in,” he said. “It is highly technical, pays well, and the pride you get when showing off your work is second to none. Come join us!”
Residential Craftsperson of the Year: Jeff Occhipinti
Jeff Occhipinti, a tile professional since 2003, is renowned for his artistry and commitment to advancing high-quality residential tile installations. Occhipinti founded Columbia River Tile & Stone in Portland, Ore., and has transformed it into a leader in the field, known for both traditional tile installations and innovative, artistic work.
As a Certified Tile Installer (#1354) and NTCA Five-Star Accredited Contractor, Occhipinti brings technical skill and a passion for tile craftsmanship to every project. “Craftsmanship is as much about mindset and approach as it is about the final product,” Occhipinti said. “At its core, it involves mastering skills, dedication, attention to detail, a commitment to quality, understanding materials, embracing creativity, and honoring the traditions of your craft.”
Occhipinti’s dedication to professional growth has led him to earn Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT) in multiple disciplines. He is also a founding member and instructor of the Oregon-Columbia Tile Trades JATC tile apprenticeship program, helping train the next generation of tile professionals. His leadership has helped the program receive national recognition, including a feature in TileLetter. “Apprenticeship is essential for developing craftspeople and artisan tile setters,” Occhipinti pointed out. “It provides hands-on experience, mentorship, and structured learning that are critical for mastering a craft.
“We are a part of an amazing program in Portland, Ore., where the apprentices benefit from a well-rounded approach, including online learning through NTCA University, monthly performance classes led by skilled instructors, and on-the-job training to hone their skills,” he added. “When I think of apprenticeship, Aristotle’s famous quote comes to mind: ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’”
Occhipinti completed the Artisans Revolution in Tile program, co-sponsored by NTCA and LATICRETE, and held at Dragonfly Tile & Stone Works in Milwaukee, Wis., last June. Incorporating art into his craft is a high priority for Occhipinti.
“From the beginning, my company has prioritized blending technical excellence and artistry in tile work,” he said. “Our process includes taking time to find inspiration, experimenting with ideas, choosing materials that match the vision, and fine attention to detail. We aim to create exceptional installations that are both functional and unique, transforming spaces into enduring works of art.”
In addition to mentoring his team, Jeff’s company has earned two prestigious Coverings Installation & Design (CID) Awards, as well as over 230 five-star online reviews, reflecting his commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Celebrating excellence at the NTCA
The NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year awards highlight outstanding contributions to the tile industry, both in technical skill and in setting standards for quality and service. These honorees exemplify the excellence and dedication that drive the NTCA forward and set a benchmark for craftsmanship in the tile trade.
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.
