Mentoring a Mason
By Masonry
Daniel Hiltebeitel must be doing something right. As a masonry instructor at the Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades in Media, Pa., he has sponsored a student in the SkillsUSA National Masonry Contest for the last eight years. Six students placed, and two earned first-place honors, including this year's post-secondary division gold medal winner, Michael Wagner.
Wagner was first introduced to Williamson Free School by his football coach at Elkton High School in Elkton, Md. Upon visiting the school, Wagner was impressed by the projects the masonry students were building, so he applied to the program. Once enrolled, he wrestled, served as class treasurer and was a member of the student council. He specialized in technology and graduated with a 3.74 grade point average. Wagner's other achievements include receiving the Good Citizenship Award from the Sons of the American Revolution and being recognized by Junior Achievement. His hobbies are playing guitar, building computers and participating in sports.
With such strong philosophies and values, it's no surprise that Wagner became a mentor for freshman students at Williamson Free School.
Wagner found a mentor, too, in his instructor. "Mr. Hiltebeitel taught me everything," he says. "He taught by constant repetition of hands-on skills and excellent textbook theories. He has been a very positive father figure to me and has shown me that the building trades are a vital and respected part of the U.S.A."
During the summer of 2006, Wagner was a self-employed mason. He is currently employed as an assistant superintendent with Whiting & Turner Contracting Co. in Towson, Md.
Wagner's personal future looks just as bright as does his professional future. He is engaged to his high school sweetheart, Liz Foreman, whom he will wed in June 2008.
About the Author
Masonry, the official publication of the Mason Contractors Association of America, covers every aspect of the mason contractor profession - equipment and techniques, building codes and standards, business planning, promoting your business, legal issues and more. Read or subscribe to Masonry magazine at www.masonrymagazine.com.
