Welcome to Our World

Words: Jennifer MorrellWorld of Concrete/World of Masonry 2011 is upon us, so we’ll be packing our bags and heading out West for a week of learning and networking with our colleagues, old and new. The size and tone of WoC has varied during the last few years, but the show is always strong and beneficial to attendees. Though the week can be exhausting, it rejuvenates our respect for the masonry and construction industries, as well as stokes the entrepreneurial spirit.

I enjoy seeing all of the new products and advancements to our industry. Moreover, it is assuring to see determination and a fighting spirit from the attendees who refuse to let a brutal economy interfere with their will to conduct business. While some people simply can’t afford to attend during tough times — totally understandable — those who can attend send a message of strength to the entire masonry industry.

The MCAA Annual Convention will take place during the week of World of Concrete/World of Masonry as well. You can take courses and “earn while you learn” throughout the week. Also occurring will be the TEAM Awards, the MACPAC Reception, the Fastest Trowel on the Block Competition, the Bricklayer 500 Competition, the South of 40 Event at the Hofbräuhaus, and more. Visit convention.masoncontractors.org for more information.

I hope to see you during the week of Jan. 17 in Las Vegas. Be sure to stop by our booth — N1755 — to say hello, or request a meeting ahead of time with one of our staff who is in attendance. You can email me directly for an appointment at jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com.
About: Convention
Outreach Outlook: Springing into Action – The Season of Growth
March 2026

There is a distinct shift in the air when March arrives. You can feel it on the job sites, and you can certainly feel it in the classrooms. As the winter chill begins to lift and the days are a little longer, the construction industry naturally wakes up f

Chairman's Message: Laying the First Brick - A Fresh Start
March 2026

As we head into a new year, I’m excited and, honestly, grateful to step into the role of Chairman of the Mason Contractors Association of America. This industry has been good to my family, and I see this role as a chance to give back and help move things

GEN NXT: 2026 Skills Challenge Winners
March 2026

After another successful year of the Skills Challenge, the MCAA had the opportunity to speak with the three 1st Place winners of each skill level. Get to know their journeys, motivations, and the mindsets they have in order to compete in a national compet

2026 World of Concrete Recap
March 2026

The 2026 World of Concrete Convention marked another successful year for masonry. From the world-renowned Skills Challenge and Fastest Trowel on the Block competitions to the new innovative GEORGE AI class, we gained a lot of ground in pushing this indust