Gary Altman
Hilo
Summary
Accomplished Master Tile Setter with extensive experience at Hilo Tile and Stone, specializing in precise tile installation and layout planning. Proven ability to enhance client satisfaction through effective communication and meticulous attention to detail, resulting in high-quality finishes and successful project completions. Skilled in problem-solving and adapting to complex design challenges.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Master Tile Setter
Hilo Tile and Stone
Hilo, HI
04.2026 - Current
- Installed various tile designs, ensuring precise alignment and finish.
- Prepared surfaces by cleaning, leveling, and applying adhesives for optimal tile placement.
- Assisted in selecting materials based on project specifications and client preferences.
- Maintained tools and equipment, ensuring safety and operational efficiency on job sites.
- Collaborated with team members to complete projects within established timelines and quality standards.
- Resolved onsite challenges through effective problem-solving and adjustments during installation processes.
- Educated junior staff on best practices for tile installation and maintenance techniques.
- Contributed to workflow improvements by suggesting efficient tile layout strategies for complex designs.
- Used specialized tools and equipment to cut, shape and install tile.
- Cut and prepared tiles for installation following precise measurements and job specifications.
- Inspected floors before, during and after tile installation and reported identified concerns.
- Followed strict safety standards for customer and worker protection.
- Delivered excellent customer services, promptly addressing concerns and questions.
- Created watertight finish on tiles by sealing surfaces and adding grout.
- Completed skilled repairs of existing tile installations.
- Operated machines to mix mortar, thinset and grout according to standard formulas.
- Completed accurate, well-aligned and straight work according to job specifications.
- Determined and implemented best layout to achieve desired pattern.
- Used power wet saws and tile cutters to cut tiles to specifications for projects.
- Reviewed blueprints and specifications to determine labor and materials that would be required to complete tiling project.
Master Tile Setter
Alohawiwoole Flooring Services
Springfield MO
01.1990 - Current
- Installed various types of tile including ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone.
- Prepared surfaces by leveling and cleaning before installation.
- Applied grout and sealant to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Collaborated with team members to complete projects efficiently and on schedule.
- Maintained tools and equipment for optimal performance during installations.
- Assisted in estimating materials required for each project accurately.
- Trained new employees on safe handling of tools and installation techniques.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations throughout all phases of work.
- Used power wet saws and tile cutters to cut tiles to specifications for projects.
- Maintained a safe work environment through proper use of tools, equipment, and adherence to safety protocols.
- Reviewed blueprints and specifications to determine labor and materials that would be required to complete tiling project.
- Prepared surfaces for tiling using appropriate materials such as cement board or waterproof membrane to ensure long-lasting installations.
- Reduced material waste by efficiently planning layouts and cuts before commencing installation procedures.
- Ensured accurate alignment of tiles using leveling systems for professional results that exceeded clients'' expectations.
- Placed marble and tiles into place using spacers to achieve proper spacing for grout application.
- Conducted thorough site assessments before installation to identify any potential issues and provide accurate quotes to clients.
- Expedited project completion times by effectively managing multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining quality standards.
- Completed high-quality installations with precision cutting and fitting of tiles for residential and commercial projects.
- Assisted clients in selecting grout colors that complemented their chosen tile design, enhancing overall aesthetics of the finished project.
- Provided clear communication with clients regarding project timelines, budgets, and potential challenges during the installation process.
- Leveled surfaces using plywood and mortar prior to laying marble and tile.
- Performed regular maintenance on tools and equipment to ensure optimal functionality during each project.
- Consistently met deadlines for high-pressure projects, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business opportunities.
- Increased client referrals through exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in all completed projects.
- Collaborated with contractors and architects to execute complex designs, resulting in visually appealing spaces.
- Promoted company brand by consistently delivering high-quality workmanship that led to increased market exposure through word-of-mouth endorsements from satisfied customers.
- Updated knowledge continuously through industry seminars and workshops to remain current on best practices in tile setting techniques.
- Followed general safety measures and used tools and machinery properly to avoid mishaps.
- Followed strict building codes when installing tiles in wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens to ensure water resistance.
- Updated logs and completed timely job paperwork.
- Greeted customers cheerfully and provided expert service.
- Developed strong relationships with suppliers to negotiate better prices on materials without sacrificing quality.
- Planned and handled more than Number installation jobs each month.
- Demonstrated versatility in skillset by proficiently working with various types of tiles such as ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing expert advice on tile selection, design, and installation techniques.
- Improved project efficiency by accurately estimating tile quantities and ordering materials in a timely manner.
- Used schematic diagrams to plan work.
- Used safe lifting, equipment and behavioral practices.
- Installed tile flooring in residential homes and commercial buildings.
- Maintained safe, clean and organized work environment.
- Worked professionally with other tradespeople on successful, on-time project completion.
Retail Store Owner
Flooring Solutions of SWMO
Billings, MO
01.2003 - 08.2019
- Managed daily operations, ensuring optimal inventory levels and product availability.
- Developed strategies to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction in-store.
- Oversaw staff training programs, improving team performance and service quality.
- Implemented effective marketing campaigns, boosting foot traffic and sales conversions.
- Analyzed sales trends to optimize product placement and merchandising strategies.
- Fostered relationships with suppliers, negotiating favorable terms for inventory procurement.
- Streamlined operational processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing overhead costs.
- Led community outreach initiatives, strengthening brand presence in local markets.
- Prepared bank deposits and handled business sales, returns, and transaction reports.
- Boosted sales revenue with targeted promotions that capitalized on seasonal trends and consumer preferences.
- Maximized profitability by periodically re-evaluating product pricing based on supplier costs, competitor prices, and customer demand.
- Managed daily operations efficiently, overseeing staff schedules, inventory control, and financial transactions.
- Studied market to determine optimal pricing of goods and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
- Cultivated loyal customer base by providing exceptional service, personalized recommendations, and timely resolution of issues or complaints.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Oversaw business budget planning and administration, accounting functions, purchasing, and bi-weekly payroll to handle financial needs.
- Drove foot traffic into the store with eye-catching window displays showcasing popular products and promotional offers.
- Strengthened relationships with suppliers to negotiate better pricing, improving overall profit margins.
- Enhanced employee performance through the implementation of regular training programs and clear communication of expectations.
- Established a strong brand identity through consistent visual merchandising guidelines across all store locations.
- Implemented loss prevention strategies to minimize instances of theft or damage, resulting in a reduction of shrinkage and overall expenses.
- Achieved growth in total sales year-over-year due to strategic planning and data-driven decision-making practices.
- Adapted quickly to changing market conditions by staying informed about industry news, competitor activities, and consumer behavior shifts in real-time fashion retail trends.
- Collaborated with other local businesses on joint events or cross-promotions that benefitted both parties involved while increasing community presence.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Organized and attended trade shows and special events to showcase products, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
- Identified and qualified customer needs and negotiated and closed profitable projects with high success rate.
- Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions for new organization.
- Updated and resolved incidents and managed accessorial charges objectively while maximizing profit.
Education
No Degree - Business Economics
San Bernadino Community College
San Bernardino, CAHigh School Diploma -
Hawaii Preparatory Academy
Waimea, HI05.1990
Skills
- Tile installation
- Safety procedures
- Tile cutting
- Grout application
- Layout planning
- Surface preparation
- Flooring installation
- Surface cleaning
- Material selection
- Blueprint reading
- Adhesive mixing
- Tile maintenance
- Pattern design
- Hand tools
- Custom tile work
- Leveling surfaces
- Project estimation
- Commercial and residential projects
- Backsplash installation
- Countertop tiling
- Power tools operation
- Mosaic creation
- Substrate assessment
- Waterproofing techniques
- Problem assessment and resolution
- Floor leveling
- Power tool operation
- Stone setting
- Client communication
- Worksite organization
- Mosaic installation
- Project management
- Cost estimation
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Multitasking
- Reliability
- Excellent communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Client satisfaction
Affiliations
Jerry Perkins Color tile of Springfield sales manager : 417-496-3102
Jeremy Bryant owner of bryan development and knaperdack construction 417-224-6414
Shawn Coatney Coatney construction and Coatney records- recording studio Republic Mo
417-861-5658
Dolph Woodman. Owner of Woodco construction Billings Mo 417-880-8016
Also a beginning partner in flooring solutions
Timeline
Master Tile Setter
Hilo Tile and Stone
04.2026 - Current
Retail Store Owner
Flooring Solutions of SWMO
01.2003 - 08.2019
Master Tile Setter
Alohawiwoole Flooring Services
01.1990 - Current
No Degree - Business Economics
San Bernadino Community College
High School Diploma -
Hawaii Preparatory Academy