BIO
Peter Nielsen brings over 40 years of knowledge and experience to the ceramic tile industry. He holds current C-54 Ceramic and Mosaic and Class "B" General Building Contractor licenses in the State of California. His background also includes a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology from California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo, with a concentration in Industrial Sales and Management.
In 1995, Peter joined Schluter Systems, LP as a Territory Manager, and later became Technical Director and General Manager of the company. During his 15-year tenure, Peter played a key strategic role in solidly positioning the company in the North American market. By identifying and defining specific market needs, his ideas led directly to the development of products and systems that have since become a part of the company's core offerings and with which the company has become identified. In addition, Peter:
- was responsible for the development of all company Installation Handbooks and specifically tailored all technical literature to the needs of the US market;
- provided training and presentation guidelines, instruction, and assistance for the national Sales team and Customer Service Representatives;
- developed a nationwide education program for contractors;
- supported all Marketing efforts by providing content and ensuring technical accuracy; and
- provided technical oversight in the production of all Schluter videos, animations, etc.
As the company's representative, Mr. Nielsen was actively involved in the development of industry installation standards and educational programs through participation in:
- ANSI ASC A108 – Committee member;
- Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Technical Committees – Committee member (incl., Installation Materials, Backer board, and Membrane subcommittees);
- National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) Technical Committee – Committee member;
- Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) – Board member.
In 2011, Peter, together with a business partner, established MGNT Products Group, LLC. MGNT subsequently entered into a Development and Licensing Agreement with USG that resulted in the commercialization of the USG Durock™ Brand Shower System and the issuance of multiple related patents.
Today, Peter works as a consultant to the tile industry, with a focus on:
- product development and product application;
- sourcing/managing technology providers and material suppliers;
- product testing, including code listings and approvals;
- providing strategic recommendations for product improvement and new product introduction; and
- development of technical information materials, technical presentations, and other communication tools.