PRESIDENT’S LETTER Martin Howard Since 1947, the David Allen Company has been privileged to be a charter member of the National Tile Contractors Association. One of the strengths of the NTCA is that it has pro- vided a network of like-minded companies with a platform to learn from each other and indus- try experts. This has taken many forms over the years, but prob- ably the most important tool it produced that has served to ensure our success is the NTCA Reference Manual. We have seen this document and the effort to create and update it provide invaluable knowledge that has quite literally saved us far more than the cost of our membership and involvement. As the current NTCA president, I’m honored to be the fourth David Allen Company employee to serve in that capacity. The ded- ication and commitment NTCA has demonstrated to its mem- bers and the industry at large is an example of service, educa- tion and leadership. When faced with a choice, NTCA always puts the industry and its needs first, seeking to elevate and benefit all who are engaged and connected to our trade. NTCA has provided scores of educational oppor- tunities for both members and non-members. Examples of this commitment include the NTCA Workshop seminars, which are offered to all industry profes- sionals around the country FREE of charge. Over 3,000 people attend an NTCA Workshop on an annual basis. Regional seminars, custom training programs, and webinars are additional educa- tional opportunities provided by NTCA on a regular basis, again, all at no charge to attendees. Another significant resource has been the gathering of industry experts and leaders at events like Total Solutions Plus, Coverings and TISE West/Surfaces, to dis- cuss current issues and problems being faced in the field. These events are held annually and located regionally on a rotat- ing basis so that all parts of the country can attend at least one event. NTCA celebrates 70 years of service 16 TileLetter | September 2017