Coverings 2026 Las Vegas, NV March 30 – April 2, 2026

2025 Flooring Sustainability Summit July 16–17 at the historic Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Tile Solutions Plus(TSP) 2025 Phoenix, AZ October 27-29

TCAA and IMI Chicago Engagement Event: Networking Opportunity for IUBAC Signatory Contractors A Look Back at the 2025 Chicago Tile Expo: Insights from TCAA 2025 IMI Chicago Tile Expo Showcases Craftsmanship and Collaboration The International Masonry Institute (IMI) hosted another successful Chicago Tile Expo on May 22, 2025, drawing a full house of nearly 100 architects, designers, contractors, suppliers, and tile industry professionals to the BAC District Council Training Center in the Chicago suburbs. This year’s Expo, held in partnership with TCAA, the Ceramic Tile Contractors’ Association of Chicago, DCTC, and BAC District Council 1 of Illinois, offered a dynamic blend of education, hands-on experience, and networking. The morning kicked off with two well-received CEU sessions. Tyler Barton of Mapei delivered a comprehensive presentation on Large Format Tile and Floor Preparation, highlighting both the design possibilities and installation challenges of large-format porcelain and ceramic tiles. Later, Scott Conwell of IMI spoke on Tile Grouts and Expansion Joints, demystifying ANSI grout types and emphasizing the aesthetic and structural importance of proper expansion joint planning. Outside the classroom, the action continued. Over 15 local suppliers showcased their latest innovations in tile, membranes, drains, pedestals, adhesives, and more. In the training bay, attendees witnessed live demonstrations by tile coordinator Mike Spatz and a team of apprentice instructors. From proper mortar application and troweling techniques to grouting and substrate prep, these interactive demos highlighted what it takes to achieve high-quality tile installations especially when working with large-format, warped tiles on imperfect surfaces.  A highlight of the day was seeing architects get hands-on experience laying tile on floor mockups, underscoring the real-world challenges and craftsmanship involved. Attendees also had the opportunity to observe local BAC 21 tile setters completing Advanced Certification for Tile Installers (ACT) exams in mud floors and grout applications, offering a deeper understanding of the trade’s technical standards. As one LinkedIn attendee put it, “The collaborative spirit and technical expertise on display at the IMI Chicago Tile Expo remind us why investing in skilled labor and continuing education is essential for our industry's future.” TCAA extends its thanks to all partners, sponsors, and attendees who made this event such a success. Together, we are building a stronger, smarter tile industry, one tile at a time. For more information on future events and initiatives, visit TCAA’s website .

IMI Continuing Education Learning Opportunities for Signatory Contractors Click "View Learning Opportunities" to check out upcoming webinars, or to register to view previous "on demand" webinars. Be sure to check back periodically for additional education opportunities. Each of the programs listed are registered with AIA for 1.0 Learning Units (LUs) , and some qualify for HSW and/or IDCEC CEUs. BAC tile and stone contractors receive 1.0 hours toward IMI Contractor College and TCAA Trowel of Excellence continuing education requirements. Presenters provide certificates for self-reporting to all attendees For more info contact Scott Conwell (IMI) sconwell@imiweb.org (630) 396-3144 - www.imiweb.org