Masonry Magazine August 2016 Page. 49
masonry brand under the name Echelon Masonry. This multi�million-dollar endeavor delivers a first of its kind, integrated one-source solution backed by a national network of regional expertise.
However, Oldcastle APG's commitment to the masonry professional extends beyond brands and a broad array of products. The company has pledged substantial funding to The Masonry Foundation for use in the promotion and expansion of the industry.
Although masonry has seen a dip in the skilled labor pool that installs it, masonry technology continues to evolve as means to solve this challenge. Oldcastle APG is betting on the future with its investment in innovative solutions to the issues dogging the masonry community and supporting organiza�tions charged with the same goal. From funding training for a new labor force, to increasing efficiency on the jobsite with high-performance wall systems and innovative new products, OldcastleAPG will continue to demonstrate confidence in the future ofthe industry. It will take the willingness of manufac�turers and the masonry community to solve these issues, not just talk about them.
Architects make up another group of professionals betting on masonry, especially for customized projects with very spe�cific material performance demands and a level ofartistry, such as the Museum at Prairiefire in Overland, Kan. Unveiled last year and featured in the June 2016 issue ofMasonry Magazine, the museum's architect needed very specific custom colors not found in nature. Working closely with D&D Masonry, the ar�chitect was able to bring the concept of the region's prairie fires, intentionally set for land management, to life with the look of flames and charred embers.
Another example is the new Mesa Community College Performing Arts Center, featuring exposed masonry and raked stucco on metal stud framing on its 450-seat amphitheater, in�stalled by M.A.G Construction, Gilbert, Ariz. The venue also relied on a masonry interior to achieve its acoustical quality. Hundreds of other examples of municipal, civic and religious structures all pointto the demand for quality masonry.
Of course, masonry will not be used for every building being constructed, but with a proven track record of tangi�ble innovation; current trends in mixed materials; environ�mental needs for wall system solutions; and the strides in new manufactured masonry aesthetics, the sky is the limit on how the industry can charge ahead.
Oldcastle APG is poised to become a powerful asset and partner for the masonry community and category. With the right investments, innovation and skill, we can all ensure the success of our livelihood for generations to come.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on the future of masonry. Contact us at www.EchelonMasonry.com. lMAS
Ken O'Neill is the executive vice president ofsales,
MIIIVERSAAY
� � �
NATIONAl
<, 1cp1
CONCRETE MASONRY ASSOCIATION
..........eo--..__bS:tr-Mtl~
~ Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute�
marketing and product development for Oldcastle APG,
Atlanta, Ga.
*Source: IBISWorld, a global market research firm, is based in New York City.
www.masonrymagazine.com August 2016 � MASONRY I 47