Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner with us
MCAA Logo
Log in Sign up Join Hi, there Account
2026 Midyear Registration is OPEN
Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner
Log in Sign up Join Account

Outreach Outlook: Securing the Future Through the Inspire Awards

Words: Robert Melgaard


As we move into November, I want to take a moment to highlight one of the most significant opportunities our industry has ever faced: the Truist Foundation Inspire Awards. The Masonry Foundation has been named a finalist, and on Tuesday, November 12th, we will compete in a live-streamed event where one organization will be named the fan favorite, which secures additional funding.

This is not just about recognition. This is about real impact. If we win, we unlock resources that will directly strengthen our workforce, empower our instructors, and build new opportunities for generations of masons to come.

Why It Matters
Our industry is staring down a two-front challenge: a rapidly retiring workforce and a shrinking pipeline of qualified instructors. By 2031, nearly half of our workforce will have aged out of the trade, and schools across the country are struggling to fill career and technical education positions. Without action, too much knowledge and skill will be lost.

That’s why we developed ReCastED, a groundbreaking program that helps experienced tradespeople transition into teaching roles. ReCastED clears the pathway, removing barriers like tuition costs and lengthy degree requirements, and provides the mentorship and support necessary for tradespeople to thrive in the classroom. In short, it keeps expertise in the industry while building up the next generation.

The Power of a Vote
Winning the Inspire Award isn’t charity; it’s an investment. Every mason we help transition into a teaching role represents not only a sustainable career for them but also hundreds of students who will benefit from their instruction. The ripple effect of this program is enormous: millions in new salaries, new opportunities, and new economic activity tied directly back to the craft of masonry.

But here’s the key: this award is decided by a live online vote. That means it’s up to us, all of us, to show up, cast our vote, and demonstrate that the masonry industry knows how to rally when it matters most.

How You Can Help

1. Register Today. Use the QR code or link provided to sign up for the Inspire Awards livestream.

2. Mark Your Calendar. The event takes place on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 PM ET.

3. VOTE. When the time comes, cast your vote for The Masonry Foundation and help us secure this critical win.

Building a Legacy Together
This is more than a competition. It is our chance to take control of our future, to strengthen our workforce, expand opportunities, and ensure that the word “masonry” continues to mean resilience, craftsmanship, and pride for generations to come.

When we say Masonry Strong, this is what we mean. Strong enough to meet challenges head-on. Strong enough to build pathways for the next generation. Strong enough to come together when the future of our trade is on the line.

Let’s make November 12th a night where our industry stands united. Together, we can secure this victory, and with it, a stronger, more sustainable future for masonry.


About: Outreach Outlook
 0
Australian Bricks vs American Bricks: What 24 Hours of Travel Teaches You About the Trade
June 2026

Bricklaying might not change simply because you cross a state line. It does change when you travel 24 hours to the other side of the world and lay bricks under lights, cameras, and a stopwatch. The fundamentals of the trade are universal. Brick, mortar,

Technical Talks
Read More
2026 Masonry Foundation Grants
June 2026

The Masonry Foundation is dedicated to advancing the masonry industry and is accepting grant applications for 2026. Proposals should have national reach and aim to generate substantial progress within the masonry industry. To explore examples of past gra

Justin Stengel
Industry News
Read More
The “Small Job” Safety Trap: Why Safety Sometimes Fades When the Spotlight Disappears
June 2026

Before I was fortunate enough to lead Malta Dynamics, I spent a couple of years as a traveling salesman for the company. My territory covered the entire country (and some beyond), and in a typical year, I visited more than 100 jobsites across nearly every

Greg Brown
Safety Library
Read More
Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
June 2026

As a business owner and leader, taking the mental health of your employees seriously and understanding how it can impact their work is essential. In fact, one in five adults experiences a mental health condition annually. Addressing mental health is more

Patrick Cunningham
MAP Partner
Read More