From Career To Calling

by advancing the causes of those less fortunate.

by Howie Nestel

Transitioning from one path in life to another can be daunting and challenging. However, it can also be rewarding and fulfilling. This has been the case over the past few years as I have moved away from commanding multiple businesses and journeyed toward a calling to serve nonprofits. Business is what I get paid to do, but philanthropy is what I was made to do.

As the owner of Sharkmatic Advertising, I have spent decades helping businesses grow and expand their reach through marketing and branding. Although I find this work to be rewarding in its own right, in the early years of my career, I felt as though something was missing. So, I began to use my entrepreneurial skills and marketing expertise to make a difference in a more meaningful way

It wasn't until I began volunteering with various nonprofit organizations helping children dealing with cancer, battered women, the homeless, and people with disabilities that I realized my true passion. Working with these organizations allowed me to leverage my network and use my marketing skills to help people and make a profound and positive impact in the community.

My gradual transformation from businessman doing occasional community service to philanthropist who happens to own an ad agency is a process that still continues to this day. I sold 3 of my companies, began by taking on more non-profit projects, and am shifting my focus to even more community service projects.

Winston Churchill said it best; "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Today, I couldn't be happier with my decision to follow the calling of service. Through my company, I am able to make a good living and use my marketing expertise to make a real difference in the world. That is a reward that can not be measured in dollars or cents.

Business Editor

Triniti Vigil named NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year… and so much more!!

When you hear Erin Albrecht, president and owner of J&R Tile, talk about her star employee/VP/Director of Installation and Training Triniti Vigil, the list of platitudes and certifications goes on and on. And for good reason! Here are just a few of the dozens of accolades Triniti has earned:

• The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) named Triniti the NTCA Tile Setter Craftsperson of the Year in commercial market segments.

• He helped J&R Tile earn its NTCA 5 Star Contractor

Certification in 2007

• He developed and operates the Department of Labor

Approved Apprenticeship Program for Tile Installers (the only one in Texas)

• He manages all qualified labor, and aspects of quality control for Commercial and Residential installations with ANSI/TCNA Standards

• he oversees J&R’s Tile Installer Journeyman Certification with the Department of Labor

• he is a Ceramic Tile Education Foundation Regional

Evaluator for Texas and southwest U.S. for the Certified Tile Installer exam; also a CTEF instructor

• he is an Advanced Certified Installer for Large Format Tile, Substrate Preparation, Shower Receptors, Thin Porcelain Tile, Mud Floors and Mud Walls; Also certifications in Wedi; Schluter, Stonepeak Plane F.A.C.T.; Ardex Academy for Moisture Remediation, Waterproofing, Adhesives, Grouts; Dekton; and Esub Project Management

The list goes on: he is also a CTEF Regional Evaluator, not to mention a walking, talking TCNA handbook—all evidence why Triniti is the “go to guy” for everyone at J&R Tile, especially for the complicated, high-end commercial projects.

Perhaps the most impressive credential he holds is that he is certifiably a great guy who takes the time to mentor and teach anyone that asks. One person he has mentored since birth is his son Miguel, who now works with him at J&R as a Journeyman Tile Installer. Al- brecht says Miguel is going to be a fabulous craftsman and leader, just like his dad.

Outside of J&R Tile, Triniti’s community service efforts are unique and far-reaching. Currently, he serves as a volunteer coordinator working with the non-profit Westside San Antonio Chamber of Commerce where he has developed improvements in the neighborhoods with a lower socioeconomic demographic. He also volunteers to speak to our local community at Lanier H.S.

& Construction Careers H.S. about a career in tile. “Through many changes at J&R Tile through the years, Triniti has made a difference at our business, exemplified the core values, and has positively impacted the people of our community, as well as having a presence in the tile community nationally. It is no surprise he was named NTCA Craftsperson of the Year looking at his skills, knowledge, willingness to help others and dedication to our community,” Albrecht brags.