Ham And Vacala Among 2024 Masonry Hall Of Fame Inductees

Words: Justin Stengel

We're thrilled to announce two of this year's Masonry Hall Of Fame inductees. Former MCAA Chairman Larry Vacala and esteemed masonry instructor James T. Ham will be welcomed into the prestigious group during the 2024 MCAA Midyear Meeting in Park City, Utah.



James T. Ham is a distinguished figure in masonry education and industry. He began his education at Frink High School, graduating in 1959, and later earned an AAS degree in Industrial Management from Lenoir Community College, Kinston, NC, along with additional certifications. Starting his career in masonry, James worked for various companies, eventually becoming a foreman and later managing large construction projects.

He taught masonry at Pitt Community College (1973-1975) and Lenoir Community College (1975-1976) and later became a highly respected instructor at Farmville Central High School (1988-1990) and Kinston High School (1990-2002). Upon retiring, he returned to masonry contracting. James held several leadership roles within the National Masonry Instructors Association, including Secretary/Treasurer (1992-1998) and President (1999-2000), and remained an active lifetime member.

His accolades include AGC Certified Master Bricklayer/Stone Mason, NMIA Hall of Fame inductee (2007), and numerous certificates and awards recognizing his excellence in teaching, community service, and contributions to vocational education. Throughout his career, he ensured his students were well-prepared, offering job placements upon graduation. James's enduring legacy in masonry and education has left an indelible mark on the community of La Grange, NC, and beyond. His contributions have helped shape future generations of skilled masons and reflect his commitment to excellence and service.


Masonry Veneers: Designing for Flexibility, Versatility and Structural Integrity
August 2025

Masonry veneers have become a popular choice among residential and commercial builders alike. These versatile materials offer the authentic look and feel of quarried stone while delivering enhanced durability. By minimizing the risk of cracking and reduci

John Cicciarelli
Technical Talks
Read More
Advancing Skill-Based Assessment in Masonry Education with 3D Wall Scanning
August 2025

Over the past year, we’ve had the opportunity to demonstrate a cutting-edge 3D wall scanner at a variety of masonry competitions and career exploration events across the region, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Students, instructors, and

Conner Birdsong
Industry News
Read More
How It’s Made: Clay Brick
August 2025

Going back to around 7000 B.C., when the first bricks were made from a combination of mud and straw (highlighted because mud and straw are not part of the defined parameters of masonry) and then dried in the desert sun, the general process of how brick is

Mat Tramel
Technical Talks
Read More
Achieving Realistic Looks with Manufactured Materials: Elevating Aesthetics in Modern Masonry Projects
August 2025

In the evolving landscape of masonry design and construction, contractors are increasingly called upon to marry tradition with innovation. Homeowners, architects, and developers demand materials that not only perform well but also look indistinguishably a

Rob McKay
Technical Talks
Read More