The tile industry has lost one of its most respected—and legendary—technical experts, mentors, and advocates with Dave Gobis’s passing on July 8, 2026.
A third-generation tile setter, Gobis dedicated his career to advancing the tile industry through education, technical excellence, and a willingness to share his knowledge with others. He owned and operated a successful tile contracting business in Wisconsin for 28 years. Gobis was a longtime National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) Contractor Member and served on the NTCA Board of Directors before becoming Executive Director of the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF), where he helped shape the future of tile education and installer training. When he retired from CTEF, he agreed to take second-tier calls for free for many years. He was also an NTCA Recognized Industry Consultant and shared seasoned advice with industry members who wanted to pursue the inspector or consultant path.
In a 2020 TileLetter article, Gobis told NTCA’S Bart Bettiga, “In the mid-80s, I joined NTCA and was an active member, attending all the shows and blocking out time for back-to-back technical seminars on the front end of the show. NTCA and trade shows also allowed me to meet and interact with all the industry players. Relationships I developed years ago are still active today and have always served as a resource over the length of my career.”
Throughout the years, Gobis authored numerous technical articles, many of which appeared in TileLetter, helping contractors better understand installation methods, industry standards, and best practices. He also generously shared his knowledge on the John Bridge Forum, where he spent countless hours answering technical questions from installers around the world. Through those interactions, Gobis frequently encouraged professionals to become NTCA members, helping introduce many contractors to the association and its educational resources.
His influence extended beyond the classroom and the printed page. Gobis was an active member of numerous industry organizations and technical committees, including the NTCA Technical Committee, the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), the International Code Council (ICC), the American Concrete Institute (ACI), and ASTM Committee C21. He also served as a voting member of the ANSI A108 and A118 committees, helping develop the national standards for ceramic tile installation and setting materials, and contributed to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook committees that continue to guide the industry today.
Gobis’ contributions were recognized with two of the industry’s highest honors. In 2009, NTCA presented him with the Joe Tarver Award in recognition of his outstanding service to the association and the tile industry. In 2015, he received the Tile Person of the Year Award from TCNA, recognizing a lifetime of dedication and leadership.
Reflecting on Gobis’ legacy, NTCA Executive Director Bart Bettiga said, “Dave was one of the bright minds in our industry, but what truly set him apart was his willingness to help others. Whether he was teaching a class, writing an article, answering questions on the John Bridge Forum, or serving on an industry committee, he never hesitated to share his knowledge. His passion for education and his commitment to raising the standards of our trade have left an indelible mark on NTCA and the entire tile industry. We are all better because of Dave Gobis.”
Gobis’ influence can be seen in the many contractors he taught, advised, and inspired throughout his career. NTCA extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the many colleagues whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and long remembered.
