Five of the largest organizations representing tile contractors, installers and manufacturers have developed a new certification program which will be recognized by the entire tile industry. Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers? ACT?will address four technically-challenging installation areas of current importance: Large Format Tile Installation and Substrate Preparation, Mudwork, Shower Pans and Membranes. A specific certification will demonstrate the installer’s skill in each of these four segments. Participants in the development initiative are: Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF), providing training and certification for any installer; Tile Contractors Association of America (TCAA), representing IUBAC signatory tile contractors; International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC), whose members are skilled tilesetters who have completed multi-year apprenticeship as well as other trained masonry craftworkers; International Masonry Institute, which provides professional and technical training for union masonry contractors, and National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), with membership open to all tile contracting companies. Tile Council of North America (TCNA) manufacturer members companies are contributing to development of the modules and tests. Installers who wish to be certified in these four specific programs must meet one of two criteria demonstrating prior training and commitment to professional development. Eligibility is conferred by completion of a Department of Labor-approved apprenticeship program, as offered by the union, or certification through the CTEF Certified Tile Installer program. Each ACT certification will be a stand-alone unit, allowing the installer to tailor training to meet individual or company needs. Completion of all four units is not necessary to attain a higher level of certification. ACT will take industry training to a new level, focusing on unique installation skills required by architects, design professionals, specifiers, project owners, builders and consumers to complete a successful project. At Coverings 2013, April 29 – May 2, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, the first installers will be certified. To see the installers at work and to attend Coverings – register today for free. Attendees at the international exhibition will witness the test procedures and understand the skill requirements necessary to pass certification in the ACT Program. Leaders of the respective organizations will present a seminar explaining the program and its requirements on Wednesday, May 1. For room and time information, go to coverings.com and click on the FREE conference program. Following Coverings, ACT partners will embark on several initiatives to launch the program, including building test modules, material and curriculum development, logistics planning, marketing, recruitment strategies and more.