Jackson, MS, October 28, 2025 - The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year awards, recognizing two outstanding professionals for their exceptional craftsmanship, leadership, and commitment to the trade.

This year’s awards were announced at the Tile Solutions Plus Conference in Phoenix and honor Will Richardet of Richardet Floor Covering as the Commercial Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year, and Mark Christensen of Tarkus Tile, Inc. as the Residential Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year. Both honorees will be formally recognized at the Ambassador Reception on January 26, 2026, during The International Surface Event (TISE) in Las Vegas.

Commercial Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year: Will Richardet
Will Richardet began his career at Richardet Floor Covering while still in high school. Today, as a journeyman floor installer, he has successfully managed hundreds of commercial projects, consistently meeting budgets and exceeding client expectations. Known for his creativity, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills, Will is always eager to learn about new tools and products. When the right tool doesn’t exist, he creates one, holding a patent for an adjustable screed that improves both efficiency and precision on the job.

A dedicated mentor, Will enjoys working with apprentices and often says, “Training is like climbing a ladder, you take one rung at a time.” No matter where an apprentice is on the ladder, Will meets them at their level, helping them progress toward becoming journeyman tile setters. He also actively supports local workforce development initiatives.

Residential Craftsperson of the Year: Mark Christensen
With over 25 years of tile setting experience, Mark Christensen first entered the flooring industry helping his father install carpet. In 1999, he shifted his focus exclusively to tile and founded Tarkus Tile, Inc. Driven by a passion for learning, Mark continually seeks to improve his craft. In 2010, through in-depth discussions on the John Bridge Forum, he mastered the art of mudwork, a skill he now shares through educational YouTube videos dedicated to the craft.
Mark thrives on technical challenges, often taking on the most intricate projects with enthusiasm. His exceptional workmanship has earned him three Coverings Installation & Design (CID) Awards, recognizing excellence in tile installation and design.

Celebrating Excellence at the NTCA
The NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year awards highlight outstanding contributions to the tile industry, both in technical skill and in setting standards for quality and service. These honorees exemplify the excellence and dedication that drive the NTCA forward and set a benchmark for craftsmanship in the tile trade.

About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable. Find out more at www.tile-assn.com.