IUBAC/IMI Tile Apprentices Crowned Champions at International Contest
The future of the tile industry was on full display in Detroit this September, as apprentices from across the United States and Canada competed in the BAC/IMI International Apprentice Contest. Hosted by the International Masonry Institute (IMI), this biennial event is the largest of its kind, bringing together the top one percent of apprentices from International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC) training programs.
Over two days, contestants demonstrated their skill, precision, and dedication across multiple crafts. Each apprentice was challenged to complete complex, real-world projects under strict time limits, with judging based on layout, craftsmanship, neatness, safety, and overall aesthetics.
For TCAA members, the Tile category shined especially bright. We are proud to celebrate the achievements of this year’s winners:
1st Place: Mariusz Sarat, ADC 1 of Illinois
2nd Place: Neil Hough, ADC 1 of Illinois
3rd Place: Randall Williams, Local 1 PA-DE
These tile champions represent the future of our industry, bringing forward not only technical skill but also the pride and professionalism that define union apprenticeship. Their accomplishments underscore the importance of investing in structured training programs, which provide apprentices with a debt-free path to success while ensuring that we as contractors can depend on a highly skilled workforce.
Kevin Trevisan of Roman Mosaic, the employer of third-place winner Randall Williams, shared his pride in Randall’s success: “We are incredibly proud of Randall. It’s exciting to see the future of the tile industry is in good hands with talented apprentices like him stepping up to take their place in the trade.”
TCAA congratulates Mariusz, Neil, and Randall on their achievements and extends our appreciation to the IUBAC, IMI, and all training coordinators and contractors who make this contest possible. Events like these reinforce what we already know: the craft of tile setting is in capable hands for generations to come.
The Flooring Sustainability Summit is a premier national convening dedicated to advancing sustainability, transparency, and innovation across the flooring and broader built-environment industries. The Summit brings together manufacturers, contractors, designers, architects, sustainability professionals, policymakers, and trade association leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue around shared challenges and opportunities. By creating space for collaboration across sectors, the event helps align industry efforts toward more responsible material sourcing, manufacturing, installation, and end-of-life practices. At the heart of the Summit is a forward-looking program that blends thought leadership with practical application. Through keynote presentations, expert panels, and facilitated discussions, participants explore how sustainability frameworks translate into real-world decision-making across the flooring supply chain. Topics commonly addressed include life-cycle assessment, embodied carbon, material health and transparency, circular economy strategies, ESG reporting, workforce considerations, and the evolving policy landscape influencing sustainable construction. Key Event Details: Dates: July 15–16, 2026 Location: Washington, D.C. Venue: The Mayflower Hotel Registration Opens: February 2026 In addition to educational programming, the Summit emphasizes connection and recognition. Attendees benefit from structured networking opportunities that encourage collaboration between industry leaders and emerging voices. The event also features the Project Design Award Program, which celebrates outstanding residential and commercial projects that demonstrate excellence in sustainable flooring design and performance—providing recognition without an entry fee and spotlighting best-in-class applications of sustainable materials. Why Attend: * Engage directly with industry leaders shaping sustainability standards * Learn about emerging tools, metrics, and policy drivers * Share best practices and lessons learned across sectors * Gain insight into future trends affecting flooring and green building The Flooring Sustainability Summit offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a shared vision for a more resilient, transparent, and sustainable flooring industry. Whether you are involved in manufacturing, design, installation, or policy, the Summit provides actionable insights and connections that help move sustainability from intention to impact. Click Here For More Information
IMTEF, TCAA, and BAC Local 1 (Washington & Alaska) are pleased to present a one-day Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT) Orientation and Training Workshop for Seattle-area signatory contractors, installers, foremen, and owners. This workshop is designed to help employers and craft professionals better understand the ACT certification process while reinforcing nationally recognized installation standards and best practices. Participants will gain practical insight into certification requirements, review critical mock-up details, and strengthen their knowledge of the TCNA Handbook and ANSI A108 standards. Event Details Date & Time: Saturday, February 7, 2026 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: IMI Training Center South Seattle College 6737 Corson Ave S, Building D Seattle, WA 98108 Cost: FREE – Sponsored by IMTEF, TCAA, and BAC Local 1 (Breakfast and lunch provided) Program Overview This one-day program provides installers, foremen, and owners with: An overview of the ACT certification program and requirements Hands-on exposure to ACT mock-ups and critical installation points A practical review of TCNA Handbook and ANSI A108 standards Insight into how ACT certification supports quality installations, reduced risk, and consistent project performance The workshop is ideal for contractors preparing their workforce for ACT certification, foremen seeking a deeper understanding of testing expectations, and installers interested in advancing their professional credentials. Agenda 7:00 – 7:30 a.m. Breakfast (Provided) Attendee and staff introductions 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. History of the Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT) ACT program overview, certification process, and requirements 9:30 – 9:45 a.m. Break 9:45 – 11:00 a.m. IMI Training Center tour ACT mock-ups: critical points review and installation approach 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. Lunch (Provided) 11:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. TCNA Handbook & ANSI A108 standards review Registration is required. Please complete the registration form no later than Tuesday, February 3, 2026. For more information about ACT certification, visit the Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT) website: https://www.tilecertifications.com/