UMR Receives ACTE Award for Work with RTI

Words: Edward KanewskeThe University of Missouri-Rolla (UMR) has received the 2004 Award of Merit from the Missouri Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) for the campus' collaboration with Rolla Technical Institute (RTI) on several research and educational projects.

UMR received the award Tuesday, July 27, during the opening session of the Missouri ACTE's annual conference in Springfield, Mo. RTI nominated UMR for the award.

UMR was cited for involving RTI students and faculty members in several research and educational projects during the past five years...

One project involves RTI masonry students in UMR research to strengthen building materials. RTI students worked with researchers in UMR's Center for Infrastructure Engineering Studies to test the strength of new, lightweight construction materials in concrete blocks. The RTI students built a wall using fiber-reinforced composite materials developed at UMR, then observed as UMR students tested the technology...

"The partnership between UMR and RTI is truly unique because it brings together a major research university and a technical institute to work toward the common cause of providing a relevant and meaningful educational experience to students from both institutions," says UMR Chancellor Gary Thomas. "This partnership has been beneficial to both parties over the past five years, and we look forward to years and years of continued collaboration."

Manufactured Stone Veneer Trends for 2026: What’s Next in Stone & Masonry Aesthetics
December 2025

As design trends evolve, stone and masonry continue to stand at the intersection of artistry, performance, and innovation. For 2026, manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is emerging as one of the most dynamic materials in the exterior and interior design space

Construction Robotics Upgrades to Gold in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program
December 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is delighted to share that Construction Robotics will upgrade their Silver partnership to a Gold partnership in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program.

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 34 Recap: Major Ogilvie, CEO at Ogilvie Strategies, LLC
December 2025

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Major Ogilvie joins the set to talk about his days playing football in college, how his journey started, and how he's seen the masonry industry change over the years.

Building the Future of the Trades: STABILA’s International Social Media Day and Verified Social Channels Are Inspiring the Next Generation
December 2025

In an era when social media often shapes public perception more than traditional media, even the most time-honored trades are finding new ways to connect, educate, and inspire. STABILA, a global name synonymous with precision measurement tools is trusted