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Chicago Commercial Construction Forum Recap

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 19:23:28 GMT

Chicago Commercial Construction Forum Recap

TCAA, IMI, and CTCAC Celebrate Industry Collaboration During a Successful Week in Chicago

Industry Leaders Come Together for Networking, Education, and a Shared Commitment to Quality Construction

September brought an exciting week of collaboration, networking, and industry engagement as the Tile Contractors Association of America (TCAA), International Masonry Institute (IMI), and Ceramic Tile Contractors Association of Chicago (CTCAC) joined forces for two successful events in the Chicago area. From the annual CTCAC Golf Outing to the IMI Build It Better Chicago Forum at the Obama Presidential Center, both gatherings demonstrated the strength of industry partnerships and the importance of working together to advance the ceramic tile and construction industries.

The week began with the annual CTCAC Golf Outing, which welcomed nearly 100 attendees representing contractors, distributors, architects, and manufacturers. While the event offered an opportunity for friendly competition and networking, its significance extended well beyond the golf course. Bringing together professionals from different sectors of the industry provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and reinforce a shared commitment to supporting quality tile installations and the continued growth of the industry.

As one of TCAA's most active local ceramic tile associations, CTCAC continues to demonstrate the value of local leadership and engagement. TCAA was proud to sponsor the outing and recognize CTCAC for its ongoing contributions to the industry. The association was also among the first in the country to support TCAA's "Put Your 2Cents In" campaign, an initiative designed to help fund TCAA's work at the national level. This support reflects the important connection between local associations and national organizations in advancing shared industry priorities.

Build It Better Chicago Forum Showcases Major Construction Projects

The signature event of the week was the IMI Build It Better Chicago Forum, hosted at the Obama Presidential Center. The event attracted more than 300 participants from across the design and construction community, including architects, building owners, developers, construction managers, and specialty trade contractors.

The forum provided an opportunity for attendees to explore the complexities of major construction projects and hear directly from professionals involved in their planning and execution. Through two panel discussions, participants gained insight into the coordination, technical expertise, and skilled craftsmanship required to bring ambitious architectural projects to life.

The first panel focused on the Obama Presidential Center, examining the execution of the stone, tile, and masonry systems incorporated throughout the project. Panelists discussed the challenges of balancing architectural design intent with constructability, scheduling requirements, and long-term building performance. The discussion highlighted the importance of communication and coordination among architects, construction managers, contractors, and skilled tradespeople to ensure that complex design concepts can be successfully translated into durable, high-quality construction.

The second panel explored another major development shaping Chicago's future: McDonald's Park, the new Chicago Fire FC soccer stadium. The privately funded $750 million stadium is part of a larger 62-acre riverfront development in Chicago's South Loop known as The 78. The project represents a significant investment in the city's continued development and provides another example of the coordination and technical expertise required for large-scale construction.

Together, these discussions offered valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities associated with complex construction projects. Whether examining the completed work at the Obama Presidential Center or the ongoing development of the Chicago Fire FC stadium, both panels emphasized the importance of careful planning, collaboration, and the contributions of skilled construction professionals.

Skilled Labor and Teamwork Take Center Stage

A central theme throughout the forum was the essential role of skilled union labor in delivering successful construction projects. Panelists repeatedly emphasized that quality craftsmanship, proper coordination, and teamwork are fundamental to meeting project expectations and achieving long-term performance.

The discussions reinforced the value that highly trained specialty contractors and craftworkers bring to the construction process. Their technical knowledge, experience, and ability to collaborate with other project stakeholders are critical to navigating challenging installations, maintaining project schedules, and delivering results that meet both design and performance requirements.

One participant captured the significance of these contributions by emphasizing that the skilled union labor provided by contractors was central to the projects' success. This message resonated throughout the forum and underscored the importance of continued investment in workforce training, professional development, and strong relationships among all members of the construction team.

For TCAA, these conversations closely align with the association's commitment to promoting quality craftsmanship, industry education, and the value of qualified tile contractors. Events such as the Build It Better Chicago Forum provide meaningful opportunities to demonstrate how skilled labor and collaboration contribute to successful projects and strengthen the construction industry as a whole.

Strengthening Industry Partnerships for the Future

Beyond the presentations and project discussions, the week's events reinforced the importance of maintaining strong relationships among industry organizations. The collaboration between TCAA, IMI, and CTCAC demonstrated how national and local associations can work together to create opportunities for education, networking, and industry advancement.

Both the CTCAC Golf Outing and the Build It Better Chicago Forum brought together individuals who play different but interconnected roles in the construction process. By providing opportunities for these professionals to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another, the events helped strengthen the partnerships that support successful projects and a stronger industry.

TCAA extends its sincere appreciation to IMI, CTCAC, the event organizers, sponsors, speakers, and everyone who participated in making the week a success. Their dedication and involvement helped create two memorable events that celebrated the expertise, professionalism, and collaborative spirit of the ceramic tile and construction communities.

Above all, the week served as a reminder that successful projects and a thriving industry are built on teamwork. From local networking events to discussions surrounding some of Chicago's most significant construction developments, the message was clear: when contractors, architects, manufacturers, distributors, and industry organizations work together, the entire industry benefits.

Michigan Commercial Construction Forum

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 23:34:47 GMT

Michigan Commercial Construction Forum

October 15, 2026, Michigan Central Station - Detroit, MI

Join IMI and TCAA to discuss projects that are defining Michigan's future and require strong coordination, smarter execution, and reliable trade partnerships.

Click here for More Info & Registration Information: Michigan - Commercial Construction Forum

Event Overview:

Panel Discussion

Restoring Michigan Central Station
After more than thirty years of vacancy, the station entered a new chapter in 2018 when Ford Motor Company launched a major restoration, leading to its reopening in June 2024. Today, the building anchors the Michigan Central Innovation District in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood.

Guided Tour: Up Close with Michigan Central Station’s Transformation

Speakers

Keynote Speaker: Ms. Mary Culler, President, Ford Philanthropy, and Chair, Michigan Central Station Project
Industry leaders representing architecture, engineering, construction, and development sectors
IMI technical experts and construction professionals sharing applied field insights
Design professionals focused on high-performance building systems and materials
Contractors and project stakeholders bringing real-world project experience

Tile Solutions Plus (TSP) 2026

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 12:17:11 GMT

Tile Solutions Plus 2026 Brings the Tile Industry Together in Miami Beach

The ceramic tile industry is heading to Miami Beach this fall for Tile Solutions Plus (TSP) 2026, taking place November 1–3 at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Now in its fifteenth year, Tile Solutions Plus continues its mission of bringing the industry together to learn, connect, and strengthen relationships across every segment of the tile community.

Tile Solutions Plus is unique because it brings contractors, distributors, manufacturers, and other tile industry professionals together under one roof. For TCAA members, the conference provides an opportunity to connect not only with fellow contractors but also with the manufacturers, suppliers, and industry leaders who influence the products, standards, and practices that shape our work. Whether reconnecting with longtime colleagues or establishing new relationships, networking remains at the heart of the TSP experience.

Education, Ideas, and Industry Connections

Education is another important part of Tile Solutions Plus. Throughout the conference, attendees can participate in sessions led by experienced professionals from across the industry. Programming is designed to provide relevant information and perspectives that attendees can bring back to their businesses, while also creating opportunities to discuss the issues, opportunities, and changes affecting today's tile industry.

Beyond formal educational sessions, TSP provides valuable opportunities for conversations among professionals representing different parts of the industry. Bringing contractors, manufacturers, and distributors together allows participants to exchange ideas, learn from one another's experiences, and develop a better understanding of the challenges facing each segment of the tile community.

The conference also provides an opportunity for attendees to connect with exhibitors and learn more about products, services, and resources available to the industry. These interactions are an important part of TSP's broader goal of creating an environment where industry professionals can build relationships while staying connected to developments across the marketplace.

TCAA at Tile Solutions Plus

For the Tile Contractors' Association of America, Tile Solutions Plus is an important annual opportunity to engage with members, industry partners, and other organizations committed to advancing the ceramic tile industry. TCAA's participation helps ensure that the perspective and expertise of qualified tile contractors remain part of the broader industry conversation. TSP also gives TCAA members an opportunity to spend time together outside of the day-to-day demands of their businesses. The relaxed setting of Miami Beach provides a great backdrop for strengthening professional relationships, sharing experiences, and discussing the future of the industry. Whether you attend for the education, networking, industry connections, or simply the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, Tile Solutions Plus 2026 promises three days dedicated to bringing the tile industry together. TCAA members are encouraged to make plans now to join colleagues from across the country in Miami Beach.

Event Details

Dates: November 1–3, 2026
Location: Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Miami Beach, Florida

Coverings 2027

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:34:38 GMT

Coverings 2027: The Global Stage for Tile & Stone

The tile and stone industry will come together once again for Coverings 2027, April 6–9 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Recognized as the largest ceramic tile and natural stone trade show in North America, Coverings brings together professionals from across the industry to discover new products, explore emerging trends, exchange ideas, and build valuable business relationships. From architects and designers to distributors, retailers, contractors, installers, fabricators, builders, manufacturers, and suppliers, the event provides a unique opportunity for the entire tile and stone community to connect under one roof.

At the heart of Coverings is an expansive show floor featuring hundreds of exhibitors representing approximately 40 countries. Attendees can experience thousands of products, materials, finishes, tools, equipment, and technologies while connecting directly with established brands and emerging companies from around the world. Whether searching for the latest tile and stone designs, innovative installation solutions, new machinery, or inspiration for an upcoming project, Coverings offers a firsthand look at the products and ideas influencing the future of the industry.

Coverings is also an important destination for education and professional development. Educational programming provides opportunities to learn from industry experts about design trends, business strategies, technical advancements, installation practices, and other issues shaping the tile and stone marketplace. The event's show-floor experiences, demonstrations, educational sessions, and networking opportunities give attendees practical knowledge they can take back to their businesses while providing a space to exchange ideas and develop new partnerships across different sectors of the industry.

Beyond showcasing products, Coverings celebrates the people, craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation that continue to move the industry forward. Programs such as the Coverings Installation & Design Awards (CID Awards) recognize outstanding ceramic tile and stone projects, while the Coverings Rock Star Awards spotlight emerging leaders who are making an impact on the industry. With four days dedicated to discovery, education, networking, and inspiration, Coverings 2027 offers tile and stone professionals an opportunity to see what’s next and connect with the global community shaping the industry's future.

2026-2027 Build It Better Series

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:52:48 GMT

Build It Better: Sponsorship Opportunities

The Build It Better sponsorship program, developed by the International Masonry Institute (IMI), offers organizations a strategic platform to support workforce development, industry training, and innovation in the masonry and construction sectors. The initiative focuses on strengthening the pipeline of skilled labor by investing in education, hands-on training, and outreach programs that elevate the quality and sustainability of construction practices. Sponsors play a key role in supporting training centers, apprenticeships, and educational resources that directly impact contractors, craftworkers, and the broader built environment.

Through tiered sponsorship levels, companies receive a range of visibility and engagement benefits, including brand recognition, access to industry events, and opportunities to connect with a highly targeted audience of professionals. The program is designed not only as a marketing opportunity, but as a meaningful investment in the future of the industry—aligning sponsors with efforts to improve safety, performance, and long-term workforce capacity. Build It Better positions sponsors as active contributors to advancing construction excellence and addressing the skilled labor gap.

Continuing Education for BAC Signatory Contractors

joy@joyofmembership.com (Joy Duling) — Sun, 20 Jun 2021 12:46:04 GMT

IMI Continuing Education
Learning Opportunities for Signatory Contractors

Click "View Learning Opportunities" to check out upcoming webinars, or to register to view previous "on demand" webinars.
Be sure to check back periodically for additional education opportunities.

Each of the programs listed are registered with AIA for 1.0 Learning Units (LUs) , and some qualify for HSW and/or IDCEC CEUs. BAC tile and stone contractors receive 1.0 hours toward IMI Contractor College and TCAA Trowel of Excellence continuing education requirements. Presenters provide certificates for self-reporting to all attendees

For more info contact Scott Conwell (IMI) sconwell@imiweb.org (630) 396-3144 - www.imiweb.org