2025 in Review: Advancing the Tile Industry Through Education and Collaboration
Throughout 2025, the Tile Contractors’ Association of America (TCAA) continued to advance its mission of supporting union tile contractors through education, advocacy, and strong industry partnerships. The year reflected a shared focus on craftsmanship, workforce development, and collaboration, reinforcing TCAA’s role as a leader in promoting quality installation standards and long-term industry success across the tile and stone industry.
TCAA maintained a strong presence at Coverings, where members engaged with manufacturers, designers, and industry professionals from across the sector. Participation highlighted emerging products, installation innovations, and educational programming, while underscoring the value of skilled union labor and the importance of connecting contractors with the broader design and construction community.
Sustainability and resilience remained key priorities in 2025, reflected in TCAA’s engagement with the Flooring Sustainability Summit. Conversations focused on environmental responsibility, evolving material standards, and the critical role of a highly trained workforce in meeting sustainability goals. These discussions reinforced the connection between responsible building practices and the expertise required to deliver durable, high-quality tile installations.
The year concluded with strong momentum at Tile Solutions Plus, marking an important evolution of the industry’s premier annual event. Educational sessions, networking opportunities, and contractor-focused discussions emphasized leadership, technical excellence, and collaboration. Continued partnership with the International Masonry Institute (IMI) strengthened training and workforce initiatives, while the recognition of TCAA scholarship recipients highlighted the association’s ongoing investment in students, families, and the next generation of industry professionals.
Previewing 2026: What’s Ahead for TCAA and the Tile Industry
TCAA’s 2026 content and events reflect a continued commitment to education, industry leadership, and forward-looking dialogue. Planning is underway for Coverings 2026, where tile contractors, manufacturers, designers, and industry partners will once again come together to explore new products, installation innovations, and educational opportunities across the tile and stone sector. In parallel, TCAA remains engaged in broader conversations around sustainability through participation in the Flooring Sustainability Summit, highlighting the role of skilled labor, responsible material use, and workforce training in advancing environmental goals and long-term industry resilience.
In addition to national events, TCAA is spotlighting thought leadership through a new four-part article series by Scott Connell, Lessons Learned from the Field. This series draws on real-world jobsite experience to share practical insights, challenges, and best practices relevant to today’s tile contractors. Together, these articles and events underscore TCAA’s focus on elevating craftsmanship, supporting informed decision-making, and strengthening the tile industry through shared knowledge and collaboration.
Lastly, Regional programming for 2026 is underway in partnership with the International Masonry Institute (IMI) and the International Masonry Training and Education Foundation (IMTEF). Input shared by TCAA members during Tile Solutions Plus is helping inform new and expanded programming opportunities designed to meet the evolving needs of contractors and installers.
