FIND A CONTRACTOR BUYER'S GUIDE
BECOME AN INDUSTRY PARTNER
MCAA Logo
MEMBER LOGIN JOIN
NEWS
World of Concrete 2026 Registration Is Open ↗

GEN NXT: Logan Sullivan

Words: Justin Stengel
Photos: Logan Sullivan


This month, the MCAA got to talk to Pennsylvania native Logan Sullivan. A young mason starting out in the industry whose enthusiasm for the craft of bricklaying is evident. His passion and genuine love for the craft could be felt throughout the interview, and it was an absolute pleasure to speak with him.

Logan Sullivan's journey into the masonry industry was not a linear path but rather a discovery of passion through an unexpected encounter during his sophomore year. Sullivan initially gravitated towards welding; however, lack of availability pushed him to explore masonry by chance. What began as a casual decision turned into a deep-seated interest. Sullivan was drawn to the craft by the challenge of transforming stacks of bricks into structured walls, an experience he found both challenging and addictive.

MCAA: How did your journey in the masonry industry begin?

Logan Sullivan: So, it's kind of funny, it was my sophomore year, and we were doing a tour of the whole facility here. And, I remember I really wanted to do welding originally. But there were a bunch of kids who were already signed up, and I couldn't get into it. So I remember I went to electrical, and then I had to pick one more that I wanted to do. I was like, let me just look at masonry and just see. Going into it, I didn't really have an interest in it, but out of the blue, I was like, you know what, I actually think I really want to do this.



Sullivan reflects on the significant appeal that masonry held for him. The initial simplicity observed in a pile of bricks belied the intricate skill required to lay them down expertly. Building a brick wall became not only a task but a venture into artistry, a process of continual improvement and mastering the craft.

MCAA: What was it about masonry that attracted you to it?

Logan Sullivan: I think it's kind of just the fact that when you look around and you’re starting out, it’s just a pile of bricks. It doesn’t seem that hard to do, to build a brick wall. And then the challenge of when you first start doing it, it’s kind of like…it’s almost addicting. Sitting there and trying to perfect your craft. The art of bricklaying is what really drew me in.

Embarking on this path was not without its hurdles. Sullivan openly admits that the transition from unskilled to proficient required adapting to various tools, an aspect he wasn't particularly familiar with beforehand. Working for a private company over the summer revealed the physical demands of masonry. As a 17-year-old dedicating his summers to grueling shifts, Sullivan gained a unique understanding of the labor's intensity, a commitment uncommon among his peers.



MCAA: What type of challenges have you had to overcome in your career?

Logan Sullivan: I mean, when I first started, it was not easy. Getting used to all the tools and stuff you have to use. Because I'm not gonna lie, I wasn't really a handy person before I started. And now I really understand how to use a level and other things like that. Over the summer, I worked for a private company, and I was just kind of laboring. So I was just making mortar, I was running blocks and stuff, and that's really physically demanding on your body. I mean, I was 17, I was waking up during the summer, working 40 hours a week. So, it's not something a lot of kids my age do.

One of Sullivan's favorite elements of being a mason is the professional aspect. Engaging with clients, discussing their aspirations, and delivering on custom projects, such as building an outdoor fireplace, enhanced his appreciation for the job. These interactions provide a platform for Sullivan to distinguish himself in the trade through professionalism and effective communication.

MCAA: What's been your favorite part about being a mason?

Logan Sullivan: Honestly, it’s the professional aspect of it. I've been talking to a lot of people about doing small jobs and stuff. And I'm actually looking at building an outdoor fireplace for somebody. So I think just professionalism and being able to talk to people and really explain to them and see what they want.



Sullivan reflects on what distinguishes a good mason from a great one. He emphasizes the importance of work ethic, commitment to punctuality, and the willingness to go beyond the basics. These foundational values, he believes, make all the difference in quality and reputation.

MCAA: From what you've learned so far in your career, what do you think separates a good mason from a great mason?

Logan Sullivan: Honestly, I think a lot of it is work ethic, and just little things like showing up on time and going that extra mile. Because at the end of the day, that really does kind of separate, like you said, the good from the best.

Looking ahead, Sullivan plans to join Local 9 to pursue an apprenticeship, fully immersing in learning and refinement. Although running his own business someday intrigues him, he recognizes the task's magnitude and is content to continue growing within the industry at his own pace.

MCAA: So, what would you say your plans are for the future?

Logan Sullivan: Honestly, I'm gonna join Local 9. And then do my apprenticeship and everything. I really like doing small jobs on the side for people and stuff like that. I'm not exactly sure if I want to start up my own business, because that is a lot of responsibility to have your own company. Obviously, it's really cool, because you're not working for somebody, but we’ll see.



For those hesitating about a career in masonry, Sullivan offers pragmatic insights. He acknowledges the job's physical demands but stresses the overwhelming satisfaction derived from personal growth and tangible accomplishments. The joy for him lies beyond monetary gains; it's in the pride of building something lasting and leaving a mark on the world with skill and dedication.

MCAA: What would you say to someone who is on the fence about joining the masonry industry?

Logan Sullivan: Well, I’ll tell them a couple of things. First off, it doesn't look like it, but it really is hard work when you get down to it. It's definitely physically demanding on your body when you get older, because even being 17, I'm young, I'm not old. But it really does take a toll on you. Even just the couple of months I’ve worked, I can definitely feel that. I’ve gotten a lot stronger and stuff, but I also get aches and pains here and there. The other thing I'd say is don't just do it for the money. You can make a lot of money in this trade, but you gotta really put pride in your work. And I think the biggest thing is not seeing the paycheck at the end of the day, but looking and being able to say, “yeah, I built that”.


About: GEN NXT
 0
From Raw Material To Art: Bringing Toothless To Life
December 2025

“The next project is already waiting in the wings, but that’s another story.” That was how I ended my article on the T-60 helmet from the world of Fallout in the July 2024 issue of Masonry Magazine. And that is exactly where this new chapter begins.

News and Events
Read More
Chairman’s Message: VALUE IN REVIEWING OUR YEAR
December 2025

My father used to have a way of teaching me lessons by purposefully not intervening when I struggled. He thought if I felt at least a little of the pain of a potentially bigger mistake, I’d come out of it wiser and more prepared for the next time. He woul

Dick Dentinger
Chairman’s Message
Read More
Outreach Outlook: A Year of Momentum and Building Our Future Together
December 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a natural time for reflection. This month marks a personal milestone for me, my one-year anniversary as the National Director of Youth Outreach & Education. What an incredible year it has been for the newly established Outre

Robert Melgaard
Outreach Outlook
Read More
The 2026 Masonry Innovations
December 2025

Be the first to know what's to come in the new year! The masonry industry is always advancing, from new material color-ways to brand new technology, see what our MAP Members are bringing to the table in 2026!

Justin Stengel
Industry News
Read More