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Words: Dan KamysJohn J. Smith, Sr., founder and president of John J. Smith Masonry, has been presented with the Lead Man Award by the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA). The award, which recognizes those who make significant contributions to the masonry industry, was presented at the MCAA’s annual convention in Las Vegas at the end of February.

In making the award, MCAA president Donald Larsen noted: “Few industry individuals have ever received the prestigious MCAA Lead Man Award. It’s awarded to those people who have distinguished themselves in their service to the masonry industry. (John Smith) has served his industry in numerous capacities and (has been) a catalyst for elevating the MCAA into a respected national construction association.”

In 1977, Smith founded the John J. Smith Masonry Co., a company nationally recognized for its excellence in brick, block and stone masonry. Specializing in commercial and industrial projects, Smith Masonry (www.smithmasonry.com) is the eighth largest masonry contracting company in the U.S., according to Engineering News Reports.

Smith Masonry landmark projects include: various buildings on the Washington University, St. Louis University and Anheuser Busch campuses; MCI WorldComm; Ameren/UE complex; Cervantes Convention Center; Manchester/1270 Office Complex; Missouri Department of Corrections, and; The Gallerin.

Smith is an active participant in both the local and national masonry industries. He has held numerous offices in a variety of masonry construction organizations, and is currently the chairman of the Masonry Institute of St. Louis, an educational and technological entity that serves as an educational and informational resource for those interested in masonry design and contractors.
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