Outreach Outlook: Back to School and Building Stronger Together

Words: Robert Melgaard

As the summer winds down and we turn the page toward a new academic year, I hope everyone had an opportunity to rest, recharge, and reconnect with family and friends. These quiet moments help us return to our work with a renewed sense of purpose and energy—and that is exactly what the Outreach & Education Division of MCAA is bringing into this fall.

Over the past few months, our team has remained focused on building capacity and connection across the masonry education landscape. One of our most exciting initiatives continues to be the development of the MCAA Instructor Resource Center. Designed with input from educators and industry leaders alike, this platform will serve as a hub for collaboration, best practices, classroom tools, and professional development opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned instructor or new to the field, we want this space to become your go-to resource for ideas, inspiration, and support.

Instructors are the heartbeat of any successful masonry program. That’s why we’re proud to offer a special MCAA membership level specifically for masonry instructors, priced at just $35 per year. This membership gives you access to valuable tools, discounts, and networking opportunities while reinforcing your place within our broader professional community. We strongly encourage every instructor across the country to join us in this collective mission to advance masonry education.

Looking ahead to the school year, we’re thrilled to see the continued evolution of masonry curriculum on a national scale. NCCER recently released updates to their Masonry Level 1 and Level 2 curriculum, with Level 3 scheduled to roll out in early 2026. These updates reflect critical input from the field and demonstrate a shared commitment to high-quality instruction and student success. As we integrate these updates into classrooms, we’re confident they will help equip students with both the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in today’s industry. Additionally, the NCCER Core Curriculum has now been incorporated into Masonry Level 1. Several modules have been combined to highlight the impact they have on the masonry industry. Notably, the Safety module has been updated to reflect PPE and safety procedures specific to masonry, providing a more tailored and practical approach to student safety in the trade.

But curriculum alone isn’t enough. We know that supporting instructors, modernizing classrooms, and bridging the gap between education and employment takes a comprehensive approach. That’s why the Outreach & Education Division continues to work on several key fronts:

Instructor Recruitment and Retention: Our team is actively collaborating with industry partners and workforce agencies to identify, train, and place qualified masonry instructors in high-need areas. From veterans transitioning out of the field to new educators entering the profession, we’re committed to expanding the instructor pipeline.
Alternative Certification Pathways: We’ve applied for a grant to support the development of an alternative teacher certification program. This initiative aims to provide skilled masons with accessible, streamlined pathways into the classroom—eliminating some of the traditional barriers that have kept talent on the sidelines.
Engagement Across Regions: Our Region 2 Director, Conner Birdsong, is already making a strong impact, representing MCAA at events across the Southeast and listening closely to the needs of local schools and training centers. As we continue to grow, four additional regional directors will be added to strengthen our nationwide reach.

This momentum is exciting—but it’s only the beginning. To truly reestablish masonry as a viable and attractive career path for the next generation, we need the collective effort of educators, contractors, associations, and community leaders. Together, we can ensure that masonry programs are not only preserved but elevated.

So as you prepare your classrooms and lesson plans, know that you’re not alone. The MCAA Outreach & Education Division is here to support you every step of the way. From resource sharing and curriculum alignment to professional development and instructor advocacy, our mission is rooted in empowering those who shape the future of our trade.

Thank you for your continued dedication to masonry education. Here’s to a strong start to the school year and the ongoing work of building a brighter, more resilient future—together.

Stay connected, stay inspired, and stay tuned for more updates in next month’s Outreach Outlook.

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Outreach Outlook: Back to School and Building Stronger Together

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