Masonry Magazine August 2001 Page. 24
CONTRACTOR TO CONTRACTOR
Contractor to Contractor is submitted to bring contractors closer together. By sharing thoughts and ideas, mason contractors will find that we all have common bonds and can benefit by sharing with each other. Contractors featured in this column are all members of the MCAA and vary in size, type of masonry performed, and operations style. The purpose of the column is to bring out the common problems, concerns, and positive experiences in the industry. If you would like more information about having your company featured, please contact Jeff Buczkiewicz at 1-800-536-2225.
What is your biggest challenge that you face as a mason contractor?
The biggest challenge that we face is finding suitable field and office personnel to fuel our growth expectations. Alongside this issue is the companion task of structured training to ensure the consistent delivery of exceptional service to our clients. Both of these things must be seamlessly handled while efficiently operating the business.
If I could change one thing about the industry, it would be?
If I could change one thing about this industry it would be the elimination of the "confusion". It is amazing how we have complicated our industry so much that designers are not comfortable with specifying and utilizing masonry components. In most areas where we have worked there is no testing laboratory that fully understands the requirements for and/or has consistently conducted correctly the sampling and testing of mortar and grout. With all candor, I have found through our affiliation with several industry associations that many of the mason contractors do not understand these procedures. This is just one small example of an inordinate amount of issues that create a lack of confidence in the masonry industry.
What do you like most about being a contractor in the masonry industry?
Without a doubt, the most interesting thing about being in this business is the opportunity to participate in building exceptional projects. We have a saying at this company, "If it is difficult then it is our job". We really enjoy the detail work involved with transforming a phenomenal concept into a physical reality. As every mason contractor will tell you, there is tremendous satisfaction in looking at the results of a monumental collaborative effort when the job is done.
What is the project you are most proud of?
We have had the good fortune to be in a market that has funded some spec-
COMPANY: Lucia
LOCATION: Houston, Texas
SALES VOLUME: Over $10 Million
Kevin M. Camarata,
Vice-president/
General Manager