Masonry Magazine March 2002 Page. 13
Where do you think the masonry industry will be in ten years?
Based upon our path now I believe you will see more mason contractors in a turnkey position. Not only to the designer but also to the customer. We will be involved in the project in the early planning stages rather than just bid time. The customer will look to us to be the coordinator and driver of the project rather than just a masonry sub. We will be the structure and envelope of a project.
Who do you think our biggest competitor will be in ten years?
No doubt this is a thought-provoking question. Today, I believe we would say the concrete industry is our number one competitor. Ten years from now, I believe we will see a large array of products similar to hardy board. These products will be designed for one purpose, and that is to replace masonry. We need to face this challenge today as contractors rather than depending upon our suppliers. How do we face the challenge? 1) Train craftsman; 2) Provide good benefits packages to retain good people; 3) Design and sell wall systems rather than products; 4) Become schedule-driven and then drive the schedule. These are just a few things, but I believe they are very critical things if we are going to face and beat our competition ten years from now.
The federal government's involvement in regulating our industry has increased; What do you feel are the most critical issues we will be faced with from future government regulations?
Our most critical issues will remain on site OSHA regulations. Especially regarding ergonomics and stricter safety regulations and penalties. At the same time, as a business owner, we must always be concerned about taxes (personal and corporate). Now terrorism, no doubt, will start affecting each of our businesses. It all points to the fact that we must stay vigilant in monitoring and LOBBYING on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C.
Who do you feel has greater impact on our industry's future architects, engineers, or general contractors?
No doubt, it will be the architect and/or engineer. The general contractor is becoming a thing of the past. Construction managers are replacing them and thus forcing you and I into the roll of a full-service trade contractor. The architect is where the dream starts. It is up to us to see that the architect understands masonry and knows how to detail it. That is why "wall systems" must be a part of each of us as we promote masonry to the architect! It will mean simply plenty of work or a great loss in our market share.
The thing I like most about being a member of the Mason Contractors Association of America is...
To hear Executive Director Mike Adelizzi talk about the Cubs and then always end up crying about them in October. Not really but we do have great staff that is always ready to help and assist. MCAA is the only national association that represents our industry across the board. It is the only association that will give you a return on your investment of time and money. By the way, maybe one day our Executive Director will be able to cheer in October too.
STERLING
The "TOUGH GUY"
Make The "Tough" Choice GO HEAVY DUTY
We have built our reputation in the Masonry Industry by building rugged, dependable "People Powered Equipment."
Call or fax for product information.
STERLING
HANDLING EQUIPMENT INC.
P.O. BOX 090438, MILWAUKEE, WI 53209
Phone 414-228-7728 FAX 414-228-9032
www.sterlingtoughguy.com
vip@sterlingtoughguy.com
MASONRY MARCH, 2002 13