5 on 5 with Superior Masonry Builders, Inc.

MCAA: Tell us about the history of your company.

Mark Kemp: The work of Superior Masonry Builders Inc. (Superior) is prevalent in southwest Wisconsin. Additionally, many of the region's buildings were constructed by Superior Masonry, an institution in the area and industry since 1959. From its headquarters in Butler, Wis., Superior completes masonry and concrete work on commercial, industrial and institutional buildings.

The family-owned business is currently under second-generation ownership and will be passed into the hands of the third generation soon. Co-founded by Richard Kemp, Superior is now run by his son, Mark Kemp, CEO and owner, and will eventually be run by my son, Brian Kemp, president. Superior bas always been very active in the masonry industry; in fact, Superior has the
honor of having two different people serve as Chairman of the MCAA.

MCAA: What do you think has been the key to your company's success?

Mark Kemp

Kemp: The success that the company experiences today is thanks to its high-quality employees and certified tradesmen. I am immensely proud of our team. "They are responsible for the values and integrity that we bring to our work." Any company is only as good as the people who make it up. Superior's employees are the foundation that makes everything work day in and day out. You can buy equipment but your employees are your greatest asset.

MCAA: What advice would you offer a budding mason contractor?

Kemp: Start small and grow with your company. Never think being the biggest is best and stay true to what you do best until you have a solid foundation under you. Surround yourself with the best people you can find and make sure you treat them fairly. Remember good employees will make you successful, they are your future.

One last piece of advice to save for the rainy day. There are a lot of ups and downs in
the construction industry so when times are good put some reserves away for that rainy day.

Jack Russell Memorial Library

MCAA: What do you feel is the masonry industry's biggest challenge in the future?

Kemp: Masonry is a great product and we need to educate designers, architects and engineers about all the positive things masonry has to offer, so I guess I am saying marketing. We need to show how and why masonry should be the system of choice. Just think of all the advantages masonry has to offer - durability, flexibility from a design point, energy efficient, and green are just a few.

MCAA: What is your favorite aspect of being a member of the MCAA?

Kemp: The networking has been unbelievable. Not only have I made some great friends, I have also learned I can pick the phone up and call them about a problem I might be having and how they might handle it.

Another thing is just giving back to the industry that has been good to me throughout my career. I get great satisfaction knowing I have done my part to make masonry the best industry out there.