necessary preparation. Tile manufacturers participate on various levels in different countries. For example, in some areas manu- facturers also provide installation of their products. In others, manufac- turers work very closely with labor associations to provide support for the training process, including financial, facilities, materials, tools and instructors. What opportunities may exist here for NTCA to open new avenues of training with the help of manufacturers, and what might that look like? Because the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) does not have any installa- tion standards, we hope to learn how contractors and design profes- sionals determine which methods are used on any given project. We hope to collaborate with our inter- national partners working toward the development of installation standards within ISO. Our goal is to pursue best prac- tices and incorporate them into the NTCA’s efforts in the United States. I look forward to providing infor- mation on what is learned during this important exchange soon. Keep on tiling! Martin Howard NTCA President Committee Member ANSI A108 mhoward@davidallen.com PRESIDENT'S LETTER ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WHERE GROWING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR PURPOSE. Joe Lundgren is a globally recognized product and marketing expert in the ceramic and stone worldwide markets. His specialty is Business Development, Product Management, and Marketing. Joe has developed his expertise in strategic planning, new product development, and marketing strategy for North America during his 27 year career at Dal-Tile, a subsidiary of Mohawk Industries. Joe has extensive experience in multiple sales channels including distribution and Home Centers. Additionally, Joe represents the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) for its testing laboratories, which has Joe at the epicenter of the industry for all new initiatives. Please contact Joe Lundgren for a free consultation proposal! +1.214.641.7773 JOSEPHLUNDGRENCONSULTING.COM 18 TileLetter | September 2018