David A. Rothberg Honored with NTCA Joe Tarver Award

At Coverings 2025, David A Rothberg, chairman of LATICRETE International, received one of the industry’s highest honors, the NTCA Joe Tarver Award for Lifetime Service. 

Presented by the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the accolade recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime of exceptional service to the tile industry. Named after longtime NTCA Executive Director Joe Tarver, the recognition reflects a deep and enduring commitment to professional excellence, innovation, and industry advancement. 

Rothberg’s career in the tile and stone installation materials industry began in 1978 in the laboratories of LATICRETE, the company co-founded by his parents, Dr. Henry M. Rothberg and Lillian R. Rosenstock. From those early days in research and development, Rothberg went on to serve in multiple leadership roles in the company, including Scientist, Technical Service Representative, Vice President of Finance and Administration, and now Chairman of the Board. 

Throughout his tenure, Rothberg has helped to shape LATICRETE into a globally respected manufacturer operating in more than 100 countries. His leadership helped to ensure the company remained family owned while also becoming synonymous with innovation, technical leadership, and socially responsible business practices. 

Rothberg holds a Bachelor of Science in geology from Emory University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Beyond the borders of LATICRETE, Rothberg supports causes in education, sustainability, and public health, as well as mentoring the next generation of industry professionals. 

Rothberg isn’t the only LATICRETE professional honored with this high accolade. Past honorees Henry M. Rothberg (2007) and Ed Metcalf (2022) echo the brand’s commitment to shaping the future of the tile and stone industry through leadership and service.

David Rothberg received the Joe Tarver Award for Lifetime Service at the NTCA and Tile Council of North America (TCNA) awards reception in Orlando, Florida, on May 1, 2025, where leaders from across the industry gathered to celebrate this year’s honorees.

Watch the inspiring video of David's journey, culminating in Bart Bettiga, Executive Director of the NTCA, presenting him with the award, followed by David’s heartfelt acceptance speech.