Remembering Kevin O'Shea


It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kevin O'Shea, a treasured figure in the industry, who passed on August 13th, at the age of 64. Kevin was not only the Safety Director at Hydro Mobile but also the Chair of the Safety Committee for many years at the MCAA. He was an advocate for the mast climber industry, playing pivotal roles in both the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) and the Scaffold & Access Industry Association (SAIA).

Born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, Kevin remained a proud Scotsman despite his global endeavors. He began his career 1980s and continued to leave his mark across the industry, notably by joining Mastclimbers Ltd. His career took him to the United States, where he co-founded Mastclimbers LLC in Atlanta, achieving significant success over nine years.

In 2013, Kevin joined Hydro Mobile, where his expertise in international regulations and safety was invaluable. His commitment to advancing industry standards saw him working closely with OSHA and playing a critical role in introducing IPAF guidelines and courses to North America. As chairman of the IPAF Mast Climbing Work Platforms Committee, Kevin was vital in setting safety and training standards, which have had a lasting impact on the industry.

Kevin's colleagues and friends remember him not only for his professional achievements but also for his vibrant personality. His passion for music and his knack for connecting with people added a unique warmth to his professional interactions, making him a beloved figure across the globe.

The Mason Contractors Association of America mourns Kevin's passing. His contributions to the masonry industry and advising association members were significant, and his legacy will continue to influence and inspire. The MCAA extends its heartfelt condolences to Kevin's family, including his wife Alison, and his stepson Andrew.



About: Industry News
MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 27 Recap: Chris Bettinger, Oldcastle Coastal
August 2025

Chris Bettinger's journey into masonry wasn't a deliberate choice but rather a confluence of unexpected life events and career shifts. With an architecture degree from the University of Michigan, Chris began his career in residential design. However, the

Justin Stengel
The MASONRY STRONG Podcast
Read More
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