TCAA and IMI Chicago Engagement Event: Networking Opportunity for IUBAC Signatory Contractors


A Look Back at the 2025 Chicago Tile Expo: Insights from TCAA


2025 IMI Chicago Tile Expo Showcases Craftsmanship and Collaboration


The International Masonry Institute (IMI) hosted another successful Chicago Tile Expo on May 22, 2025, drawing a full house of nearly 100 architects, designers, contractors, suppliers, and tile industry professionals to the BAC District Council Training Center in the Chicago suburbs.


This year’s Expo, held in partnership with TCAA, the Ceramic Tile Contractors’ Association of Chicago, DCTC, and BAC District Council 1 of Illinois, offered a dynamic blend of education, hands-on experience, and networking.

The morning kicked off with two well-received CEU sessions. Tyler Barton of Mapei delivered a comprehensive presentation on Large Format Tile and Floor Preparation, highlighting both the design possibilities and installation challenges of large-format porcelain and ceramic tiles. Later, Scott Conwell of IMI spoke on Tile Grouts and Expansion Joints, demystifying ANSI grout types and emphasizing the aesthetic and structural importance of proper expansion joint planning.


Outside the classroom, the action continued. Over 15 local suppliers showcased their latest innovations in tile, membranes, drains, pedestals, adhesives, and more. In the training bay, attendees witnessed live demonstrations by tile coordinator Mike Spatz and a team of apprentice instructors. From proper mortar application and troweling techniques to grouting and substrate prep, these interactive demos highlighted what it takes to achieve high-quality tile installations especially when working with large-format, warped tiles on imperfect surfaces.



A highlight of the day was seeing architects get hands-on experience laying tile on floor mockups, underscoring the real-world challenges and craftsmanship involved. Attendees also had the opportunity to observe local BAC 21 tile setters completing Advanced Certification for Tile Installers (ACT) exams in mud floors and grout applications, offering a deeper understanding of the trade’s technical standards.


As one LinkedIn attendee put it, “The collaborative spirit and technical expertise on display at the IMI Chicago Tile Expo remind us why investing in skilled labor and continuing education is essential for our industry's future.”

TCAA extends its thanks to all partners, sponsors, and attendees who made this event such a success. Together, we are building a stronger, smarter tile industry, one tile at a time. For more information on future events and initiatives, visit TCAA’s website.

Flooring Sustainability Summit 2026

By Admin User • January 19, 2026
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

Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers Orientation - Seattle, WA

By Admin User • January 11, 2026
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/