last three years her husband Jamen has jumped into the educational component with both feet, bring- ing new methods to their business and taking their company to a whole new level. “We thought we were doing it right,” Carrizosa said. “We’ve learned some things in last three to five years, and it opened our eyes; we have taken to new methods and apply them to new jobs. We do it right to make things last.” This includes many manu- facturer certification classes. “This year, I hope to take the CTI.” In addition, her aptitude in orga- nization translates into staying organized and keeping the jobsite clean and neat. “When I install I am very precise – perfectly, clean, level… When we work on remodel jobs – we end with customers lov- ing us for that cleanliness.” Challenges along the way Both Halford and Carrizosa have been well received by peers in the industry, though both have run into situations where they’ve been chal- lenged to “prove themselves,” their knowledge and their skills “to earn respect,” Halford said, adding, “I expect men in the industry have to WOMEN IN TILE ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Chanel Carrizosa started working with tile in her dad’s business when she was 17. After a few years, she could “do it all,” from design to a precise installation, and all the steps in between. 96 TileLetter | October 2017