NTCA BENEFITS BOX Members only: NTCA Regional Training Program schedule set for 2018 In our last issue, we reported on the pilot member-only NTCA Regional Training Program held in October in New Berlin,Wis., devel- oped by NTCA Training Director Mark Heinlein and NTCA Training and Education Coordinator Becky Serbin. The program was a huge success and provided 100% free, hands-on experience and training for a group of 20 attendees, sup- ported by NTCA trainers and staff from manufacturer partners. As a result of this acclaimed event, many NTCA affiliate members are offering massive support to a full program of events in 2018, with Daltile and Crossville leading the bunch. In addition, ARDEX, Bostik, CUSTOM, LATICRETE, MAPEI, Merkrete and TEC/HB Fuller are supporting the program with finan- cial donations. These donations are making possible a schedule of 20 dates for regional training at all regions across the nation. Thirteen will be open to local NTCA mem- bers, with eight events slated for Five Star Members only. This program differs from the NTCA Workshop program in that they are all-day events, exclusive to NTCA members only. In contrast, NTCA Workshops are evening pro- grams, open for anyone to attend. The curriculum will address either of the following topics: Standards-based installation of Gauged Porcelain Tile and Gauged Porcelain Panels/Slabs Really big, thin tiles are here to stay. In fact if you don’t get on board with learning how to install them based on the brand new tile industry standards, you may soon find yourself on the out- side looking in on some wonderful new contracting and installation opportunities. This program is your chance to learn about the basics of the tile industry standards and get an in-depth look at the new stan- dards and methods for installing Gauged Porcelain Tile and Panels (GPTP). You will learn why this tile format is the wave of the future, how it is made, designs it is used for and the special tools, setting materials and techniques required 120 TileLetter | January 2018