Tile can be a beautiful and lasting statement when it is in the hands of a true craftsperson. NTCA has created an award to celebrate those in the field who utilize their in-depth knowledge of tile methods and standards, and who exhibit dedication to the artistic execution of our craft.
The NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year award will recognize two NTCA members (one for residential installations and one for commercial installations) who have proven to be invaluable in the field due to their outstanding installations, who are passionate and actively engaged in continual self-improvement, lead and/or mentor others, and are devoted to the art of setting tile.
If you know of a craftsman or craftswoman who meets these criteria, please visit www.tile-assn.com/page/COY24 to get info on details and rules and start the nomination process. The award recipients will win a trip to TISE in Las Vegas, Nevada, where the award will be presented.
Past winners
Lee Callewaert, Dragonfly Tile and Stone Works, was awarded the inaugural NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year honor in 2019. Starting in 2020, the award was expanded to recognize a commercial tile setter craftsperson and one in the residential field. Honorees to date have included:
- 2020 – Ferid Hasic of Grazzini Brothers & Company, commercial and Leo Reynaga, Visalia Ceramic Tile, residential
- 2021 – Gary Fox, Fox Ceramic Tile, commercial and Jay Cerda, Cox Tile, residential
- 2022 – Triniti Vigil, J&R Tile, commercial and Gabriel Cortez, Heritage Marble & Tile, residential
- 15 years or more setting tile, and continuing to set tile as part of job today (Yes/No)
- Technical Correctness of tile installations - 25%
- Craftsmanship/Artistry - 30%
- Ability to Resolve Tile Installation Problems - 20%
- Self-Improvement/Continuing Education - 15%
- Mentoring/Leading Others - 10%
All nomination materials must be received by Friday, September 15, firm, to allow ample time for judging and notifying winners.
Questions or information, contact Becky Serbin at becky@tile-assn.com or phone 770.366.2566.
NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year Winners
NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year Winners
2019 Winner
Lee Callewaert
2020 Commercial
Ferid Hasic
2020 Residential
Leo Reynaga
2021 (l. to r.) Gary Fox, Commercial and
Jay Cerda, Residential
2022 Commercial
Triniti Vigil
2022 Residential
Gabriel Cortez