Report of the MCAA Workforce Development Committee

Words: Calvin Brodie

Masonry Training Series

The Masonry Training Series has experienced a slow down in sales this year, which is most likely due to the current economic situation. We will continue reviewing all existing training programs and updating along with surveying membership for additional apprenticeship training programs. We anticipate the start of development of a mason tender program this year. Our effort will done cooperatively with the Education Committee.

Skills USA

The MCAA continues to support the work of the Skills USA and participate on the Masonry Technical Committee to sponsor and facilitate the national championships in Kansas City each June. The MCAA works with many other industry affiliates to make this program a success.

Fastest Trowel Contest

This year we have 16 contestants participating in the contest. Sponsorship was significantly down this year due to the current economic situation. We expect an exciting contest and expect crowds similar to what we had last year.

Masonry Skills Challenge

Once again the Masonry Skills Challenge will be highlighted at the convention. Due to the economy only regions B, C, G and Mid Atlantic regions will be competing in the contest. We have 4 1st yr. and we 5 each for the 2nd. and 3rd year programs, for a total of 14 competitors. We are currently discussing the option of adding a journeyman category for 2011 to highlight the skill of journeymen in the industry.
Chairman's Message: REFLECTIONS SPANNING SEVENTY-FIVE YEARS
September 2025

MCAA has been posting lots of wonderful old photos from decades of records as we celebrate our 75th Anniversary. Many of these photos are black and white and show people at our MCAA events with men wearing suits and ties while the women wore dressy gowns

Business Building: What Are You Doing To Develop Future Leaders?
September 2025

When I ask my coaching clients if they have anyone in their construction company who could potentially move up from field superintendent to estimator or project manager, the typical answer is “No!” The same answer is usually given when asked if they have

Building More: Smoke Signals or Fire Extinguishers
September 2025

Ever watch a hot-potato game break out on your jobsite? It usually starts small. Somebody spots a crooked door frame, mutters, “I’ll make a note,” and flicks the issue to the next trade like it’s radioactive. By the time that frame comes back around, dryw

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 27 Recap: Rob McKay, Chief Operating Officer at Instone
September 2025

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Rob McKay from Instone joins the show to talk about his story as well as the processes and procedures of manufacturing natural stone. Getting Started in Masonry: Rob’s Story Rob entered the masonry field by