2010s Since 2010 the Association has experienced significant growth, reaching 1,000 members in 2012 and by the end of 2017 expects to surpass 1,400. Through its active participation in trade shows, edu- cational programs, international outreach and related industries, NTCA prides itself on being the Voice of The Tile Contractor. In the decade, NTCA passed three milestones – reaching its 1,000th member in 2014, its 1,300th mem- ber in 2016, and its 50th Five Star Contractor in 2017. At Coverings 2010, NTCA estab- lished the Installation Design Showcase as a main feature of the show. It partners Five Star Contractor members with local designers to design and build a fully tiled vignette on site during the show, supported by donations of tile and setting materials. The last few years have marked exponential growth in the NTCA staff, as programs develop and expand: The State Ambassador network; The Five Star Program; Apprenticeship Program; Education and Training programs, includ- ing – but not limited to – the NTCA Workshops and CTI testing, a greater digital presence for NTCA on social media. With leadership provided by a strong executive committee and board of directors, and a growing network of emerging leaders in the state ambassador program, the NTCA celebrates the past 70 years as a leading tile industry associa- tion with pride, and looks forward to a bright future ahead. The Certified Tile Installer program was launched at Coverings 2008, with Scott Carothers,CTEF at the helm. Scott joined the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation in 2007, and today oversees this program and together with NTCA Trainers/Presenters, helps bring workshops and education to loca- tions around the country. Sandy Bettiga, wife to Bart, joined the NTCA office staff in 2009. Michael Whistler joined Gerald Sloan to pres- ent NTCA Workshops around the country. The Installation Design Showcase becomes a main feature of the Coverings show. Celebrating 70 years TileLetter | September 2017 87