Why the Best Tile Contractors Never Stop Learning | Jeremy Sax | Cutting Edge Install Ep. 21

Welcome back to the Cutting Edge Install Podcast, brought to you by Omni Cubed — where innovation meets installation and everything in between. In this episode, host Merv Campbell sits down with Jeremy Sax, Deputy Executive Director of the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), for an insightful conversation about leadership, education, and the future of the tile industry. With more than two decades in the tile and construction world, Jeremy shares how his career evolved from warehouse trainee to industry advocate — and why he ultimately chose to return to the industry he loves.  The discussion explores how the NTCA supports contractors across the country through training, mentorship, and business resources designed to help installers work smarter, stay competitive, and build sustainable companies. From hands-on training events and technical support to mentorship networks and technology adoption, Jeremy explains how education remains the foundation for improving craftsmanship and profitability across the trade.  Merv and Jeremy also dive into practical innovation on the jobsite — from tools that protect installers’ bodies to emerging technologies like exoskeleton systems designed to help workers safely handle larger tile panels and demanding installations. Beyond tools, the conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning, servant leadership, and building a strong industry culture that welcomes the next generation of tradespeople.  In this episode, you’ll hear them discuss: How the National Tile Contractors Association supports tile professionals nationwide The role education and training play in raising installation standards Why mentorship and community matter in the trades How technology and innovation are changing jobsite efficiency Business strategies that help contractors grow sustainably The importance of continuous improvement and industry involvement Why the next generation of tile professionals is already emerging From leadership lessons and industry insights to real-world tools that help contractors succeed, this episode is packed with practical knowledge for installers, contractors, shop owners, and anyone invested in the future of the tile trade. Learn more about Omni Cubed: https://omnicubed.com/ Learn more about the National Tile Contractors Association: https://www.tile-assn.com/ Chapters (00:00:02) - Cutting Edge Install Podcast(00:01:21) - A New Friend On The Podcast(00:02:18) - Meet Jeremy Sacks(00:04:05) - Jeremy Stokes on His Journey into the Tile Industry(00:07:27) - What is the National Tile Contractors Association?(00:10:20) - NTCA Innovation on a Practical Level(00:12:41) - The Innovative Things You've Seen(00:14:56) - How to Be a Servant Leader to Your Members(00:19:22) - How Does the NTCA Keep People Sharp?(00:21:51) - Learning gaps and the language barrier(00:25:41) - NTCA Technology Solutions(00:28:20) - Does NTCA Education Help Installers?(00:32:43) - How the NTCAA Helped Organizations Grow(00:34:47) - The NTCA: Growing With Covid(00:38:43) - NTCA 5-Star Contractor Summer Meeting(00:44:16) - The New Tennessee Carpet Association's(00:48:12) - Get Involved with the NTCA(00:49:47) - Cutting Edge Install Podcast