Report of the MCAA Certification Committee

Words: Robert Adair

Certified Contractors

There are currently twenty-seven Certified Mason Contractors throughout the country. An additional seventy-three contractors are working towards Certification.

Approved Education

Nearly 800 courses have been approved for Certification credit. 122 approved courses were offered in 2014, with an additional 60 scheduled for the first two months of 2015.

Credentialing


The Certification Committee is currently looking into developing credentialing programs from smaller task items (i.e. flashing, wall bracing, grouting, special inspections, etc.). Look for more information on this within the next year.

Storm Shelter Credential Development

The MCAA is working to develop a single credential with the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) through a potential grant from the NCMA Foundation. Approximately three courses would need to be taken online which would deal with the critical components of a storm shelter. When complete, the attendee would receive the credential and appropriate card reflecting the training credential.

Journeyman Certification

The MCAA is working with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) to create a journeyman certification. The two organizations are currently developing an assessment test and hands-on training.

Promotion

The Certification Committee continues to look into ways to educate the architectural community about Masonry Certification with the ultimate goal of having Certified Mason Contractors specified in masonry projects. The Committee plans to work with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and make presentations at local, state, regional, and national meetings.

The Year Ahead

There is a bright future ahead for the Masonry Certification program. The Certification Committee will continue to work to certify mason contractors across the country and promote the use of Certified Mason Contractors to the architectural community.
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