The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the largest tile contractors association in the world, has announced a Five Star Program that recognizes NTCA members who demonstrate a commitment to training, service, quality, superior job performance and safety.

Each qualifying participant will receive a certificate, a Five Star Logo to place on their letterhead, and the choice of a variety of premium marketing pieces from NTCA. NTCA will also have the company name listed on its member locater in a special place just for the Five Star Program, along with a direct link to the company’s website from NTCA's website, www.tile-assn.com. Participants will have the ability to market their companies to general contractors, builders, architects and home owners, setting themselves apart from the competition.

The Five Star program is open to all NTCA contractor members in good standing. Applications are accepted all year long and can be found online by visiting www.tile-assn.com. Applications will also be available in all 2008 membership packets.

A non-refundable fee of $100.00 will be required upon submission of this recognition. Some of the initial criteria for this program should include the following:

Active membership in good standing with NTCA (three-year minimum)

Five years minimum in the Tile Contracting Business

Three reference letters from vendors/suppliers

Two reference letters or contact information from peers / competitors

Minimum of three reference letters from either:

Commercial – architect, general contractor

,/li>Residential – homebuilder, consumer and or designer pertaining to your area of expertise

Proof of trade specific license (if applicable)

Other requirements:

Must have proof of insurance

General liability and workers compensation (per your states requirements)

Proof of Ability to be bonded (if applicable)

Demonstration of active safety program:

Written copy of safety program

Description of past or pending OSHA violations (if applicable)

Recognition or awards received for safety

Continuing education and training program:

Proof of attending Ceramic Tile Education Foundation courses

Discussion of in house training (if applicable)

Participation in the Profit Planning Survey (optional)

NTCA is a non-profit trade association serving every segment of the industry, spearheading education for the professional installation of ceramic tile and allied products. For more information, please contact NTCA membership director Bob Brown at bob@tile-assn.com, via telephone at (601) 939-2071, or visit www.tile-assn.com.