CTEF Elated to Hit Milestone with 2,000th Certification
Photo Courtesy of CTEF
NASHVILLE, TN – The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) proudly announced the certification of CTI #2000, a landmark achievement in its Certified Tile Installer (CTI) program. This milestone reflects the growing importance of verified professional standards in the ceramic tile industry.
Alex Ilisei completed the hands-on test at Premier Tile Design Inc. in Detroit, MI, on May 9, 2025, earning his certification with a combined score of over 85%. Ilisei is a project manager at Premier Tile Design Inc., a full-service family-owned flooring company that services Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana. He has 13 years of experience installing and has worked in the office for the last two years. CTEF congratulates Ilisei on this outstanding accomplishment.
A Legacy of Quality
The CTI program, first launched in 2008, has become the gold standard for verifying the skills and knowledge of open shop tile installers. With strong support from industry leaders, including the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the CTI program has steadily expanded its influence, reaching 2000 certified installers who demonstrate their dedication to high-quality tile installations in the industry.
“Reaching 2000 certified tile installers in the U.S. represents an incredible achievement for the CTI program, and it reflects the strong partnerships we've built with TCNA, NTCA and other industry stakeholders," said Brad Denny, CTEF executive director. “The CTI program continues to evolve, and we are excited to celebrate the success of our certified installers, who are helping to elevate the quality and integrity of tile installation nationwide.”
Program Growth and Recent Improvements
Since its launch in 2008, the CTI program has become the gold standard for verifying open shop tile installers. Reaching 2,000 certified installers marks a significant moment for the program and the industry.
“The CTI program continues to evolve to meet industry needs,” said Denny. “We’re celebrating not just a number, but a commitment to quality, craftsmanship and professionalism.”
Recent revisions to the test include enhanced instructions, a new orientation video and clearer expectations to better support participants while upholding the test’s rigorous standards. CTEF is also exploring ways to integrate the ever-changing industry materials, like foam core backer board, into future assessments.
Celebrating CTI #2000
To honor this milestone, Alex Ilisei, CTI #2000, will receive a trip to Total Solutions Plus in Phoenix, AZ (courtesy of NTCA), a Katana™ Single Rail Tile Cutter from QEP, and a custom set of engraved Crick levels from D.W. Sanders Tile & Stone.
"CTI #2000 represents the future of tile installation,” said Denny. “This installer’s journey is a testament to the industry’s commitment to quality, and we are honored to celebrate them with these gifts."
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