FIND A CONTRACTOR BUYER'S GUIDE
BECOME AN INDUSTRY PARTNER
MCAA Logo
MEMBER LOGIN JOIN
NEWS
The 2026 MCAA Annual Online Auction is Now Open ↗

7th Annual Brick x Brick Competition

Words: Lyn OlesonThe 7th Annual Brick x Brick Competition took place at Jane Frederick Continuation High School in Stockton. High school masonry students are challenged to build a wall within the time allowed, then judged on accuracy of measurement, level, and plumb, following the line, and proper striking of mortar joints.

Career Technical Education Director for Stockton Unified School District, Dr. Ward Andrus, talks about the most important skills learned in masonry class, and how students use those skills to go on to the workplace. Hear from winner Rudy Hanes, in his own words how MITA impacts their training. Watch the video at www.trainmason.org/7th-annual-brick-x-brick-competition.

MITA starts in high schools introducing masonry as a pathway to a career. MITA is a merit shop/open shop State and Federal approved bricklayer/mason training program. However in Northern California only Unions have been allowed to train the craft of bricklayer/mason. Three (3) prepared students went on to join BAC LOCAL 3 in Tracy.
 0
Choosing the Best Masonry Brush for the Job
April 2026

In masonry work, whether you are laying brick or block, installing stone veneer, or repairing mortar joints, cleaning up is a big part of the job. It’s easy to focus on the major tools like brick trowels, mixers, and mortar boards, but brushes are just as

Mackenzie Claassen
Technical Talks
Read More
Westminster Abbey Roof Repairs Race To Protect The Masonry Below
April 2026

Westminster Abbey is undergoing long-awaited repairs to its roof, and experts involved in the work say they have discovered hidden secrets along the way. For the masonry industry, the story is less about what's up top and more about what sits beneath it.

The Daily Digest
Read More
Building Stonework That Lasts Beyond the Surface
April 2026

How Today’s Systems Strengthen Traditional Masonry In masonry, longevity has always been the true measure of craftsmanship. Any wall can look impressive the day it’s finished, but the real test comes years later, after the first freeze-thaw cycle, after t

Rob McKay
MAP Partner
Read More
Mastering The Art Of Masonry Repair: The Dos and Don’ts
April 2026

Whether we specialize in repairs and restoration work or new construction, repairs are something that we all must do, at least from time to time. With ever-increasing competition from faster and cheaper building systems, the onus is on us as masonry profe

John Bard
Technical Talks
Read More