The National Tile Contractors Association has named Gerald Sloan director of training. The 24-year veteran will be responsible for conducting training programs and workshops around the country for tile contractors and installers. Sloan succeeds Justin Woelfel, Jr., who resigned in August to pursue other opportunities.

“Gerald has worked for many years supervising tile installers into proper installation methods and strict adherence to safety rules and regulations,” said Bart Bettiga, exec director of the NTCA. “We feel that Gerald’s infectious personality, coupled with his current training and willingness to learn, will make him an asset to our industry for years to come.”

Sloan worked with D.M.I. Tile & Marble, Inc., in Birmingham Ala., for 24 years. Starting as an apprentice for D.M.I., he rose through the ranks, holding positions of journeyman mechanic, advanced journeyman mechanic and superintendent. As field craft training director he worked with apprentices on proper technique and use of equipment, conducted evaluations and taught courses in various techniques and aspects of tile setting. As field safety director, he oversaw safety efforts in-house and in the field and kept apprentices and tile setters up to date on procedures through weekly safety meetings.

“My heart is in craft training and safety,” Sloan said. “I am very excited about being a part of the NTCA team.”

Sloan will be based out of the association’s Jackson, Miss., headquarters when not on the road. For more information call (601) 939-2071 or e-mail Gerald@tile-assn.com.