Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner with us
MCAA Logo
Log in Sign up Join Hi, there Account
2026 Midyear Registration is OPEN
Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner
Log in Sign up Join Account

Determined Mason is Making the Grade

Words: Dan KamysMichael Pickels of Marion Center, Penn., is like many in masonry, he is both ambitious and hard working. After graduating from high school, Pickels worked for a full year as an apprentice bricklayer while applying to The Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades in Media, Penn. Once accepted as a masonry student, he set out to prove the worthiness of his application.

In Pickel's first year at the trade school, he was elected class president, served on the student council, and was selected MVP of the school's cross country team. This year he is serving as assistant coach. Somehow Pickels also finds time to pursue his archery hobby.

Instructor Daniel Hiltebeitel has high praise for Pickels. "He's a fine young man and an excellent student at a very challenging school. He has accomplished so much already," Hiltebeitel says.

And, Hiltebeitel ought to know. He has been an instructor for 24 years, and three of his previous students placed among the top three in the National Masonry Contest in Kansas City, Mo. Hiltebeitel's 2001 student, Keith Parker, took first-place honors in the post secondary competition. Pickels placed seventh overall in the 2002 competition.

Thinking ahead, Pickels says, "I have a lot yet to do here at Williamson before I graduate, but some day I'd like to own my own construction company." In pursuit of that goal, Pickles plans to join the U.S. Air Force after graduation and take business courses while in the service.
 0
The Benefits of Concealed Lintel Systems in Modern Masonry
June 2026

When looking at iconic structures built throughout history, one of the most recognizable architectural elements is the masonry arch. These arches are not only aesthetically and visually pleasing but also serve as an engineering solution for structural sta

MAP Partner
Read More
What’s New With CMU: A Closer Look From Ken Rathbun
June 2026

Anyone who’s spending time around CMU jobs today can see the shift. Concrete masonry isn’t just the backup wall; it is the finish on more projects. Thanks in part to the CMU check-off program and a broader focus on design and education, architects and own

Ken Rathbun
MAP Partner
Read More
Case Study: Kyle Field at Texas A&M
June 2026

The $450 million redevelopment of Texas A&M’s football stadium, Kyle Field, was one of the most high-profile projects in Echelon and Amerimix history. With the renovation, Kyle Field’s capacity increased to 102,733, making it the biggest college stadium i

Case Study
Read More
2026 Masonry Foundation Grants Now Open
June 2026

The Masonry Foundation is dedicated to advancing the masonry industry and is accepting grant applications for 2026. Proposals should have national reach and aim to generate substantial progress within the masonry industry. To explore examples of past gra

Justin Stengel
Industry News
Read More