Masonry Magazine November 2003 Page. 16
Contractor
# to Contractor
masonry project and how did you overcome the obstacles?
Fairweather: The most difficult by far would be Safeco Field. We laid over one million pieces of masonry in two years and two months with basically a half complete set of drawings. It was a tremendous learning experience for us though, as we took on a huge scope plus the complete exterior design. Safeco Field is a national award-winning project, despite its difficult nature.
Masonry: What is the best advice you would give a budding mason contractor?
Fairweather: If you think your going to come in and start a company and work your eight hours and go home, it doesn't work that way. You need to live it 24/7. Also, quality workmanship is something you can't skip.
Masonry: What do you feel is the biggest misconception about the masonry industry?
Fairweather: That there are better building materials other than masonry.
Masonry: What would you do to change that misconception?
Fairweather: We work with the Masonry Institute of Washington to try to educate as many people as possible that masonry is the best choice. The masonry industry in Seattle is putting forth an outstanding effort to retain our market share. We also spend a lot of time educating designers and contractors about the benefits of masonry.
Masonry: What are your three biggest concerns in keeping your company successful?
Fairweather: We need the work first. Then, we need to build the work - safely - with high quality and productively. We also need to keep educating people about masonry.
Masonry: What do you feel is the industry's biggest challenge in the near future?
Fairweather: Skilled craftsmen. The average age of a mason continues to grow and the interest of young masons is dwindling. We think it's because we haven't done a good job at getting to the schools and letting the young people know just what a great occupation they could have. I work on the local JATC in Washington and think we are on a good track to change this.
Masonry: Where do you think the masonry industry is going to be 10 years from now?
Fairweather: Hopefully flourishing. We need to continue our education efforts, not only on a local effort but a national one as well. Recruitment of a new workforce is essential.
Masonry: What do you think will be the masonry industry's biggest competitor in 10 years?
Fairweather: I think tilt-up, but there are new products and systems coming out everyday.
Masonry: What do you feel are the most critical issues you'll face with future government regulations?
Fairweather: In Seattle, ergonomics is still an issue. That could be a huge blow. Insurance is another issue that is hurting everyone in the construction industry.
Masonry: Which group do you feel has the bigger impact on masonry's future: architects, engineers or general contractors?
Fairweather: They all have a big impact on masonry, each with specific issues. As an industry, we need to continue our education efforts.
Masonry: What do you like most about being a member of MCAA?
Fairweather: I think it keeps us united as an industry. It's a good thing to know that we all have the same problems and successes. The Masonry Showcase gets us all together where we can meet and share new products and ideas. There is power with numbers, and if we stick together we can make a difference.
the BEST way to eliminate all of these problems...
Manganese Stains
Vandium Stains
White Scum
Burn
Streaking
Color Bleed
Clean up Efflorescence
NMD 80
in the first place
Do it with the Best!
EaCo Chem
www.eacochem.com
800.313.8505