Mason Earns Recognized Certification

Words: Ann WolterDarrin Haymond, a project manager and estimator with USA Masonry in Golden, Colo., has completed the two-year masonry certification program at the Rocky Mountain Masonry Institute, a consortium of more than 100 companies throughout Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho.

While working with USA Masonry full-time, Haymond attended 12 classes in subjects such as blueprint reading, masonry design software, historic preservation, brick and block, grout and mortar, and masonry testing.

In 1997, the Rocky Mountain Masonry Institute launched its certification program in response to the business community's desire for a meaningful way to pre-qualify masonry subcontractors. In addition to such factors as length of time in business and bonding ability, certification offers owners and design professionals objective verification of a subcontractor's expertise in masonry construction.

The certification process begins with an intensive series of professional education courses for masonry contractors and their key employees. Principals and supervisory employees with at least five years of experience in masonry construction are eligible to enroll in the program, which consists of 12, one- and two-day courses covering every aspect of masonry design, construction, safety and management.
Case Study: Kyle Field at Texas A&M
June 2026

The $450 million redevelopment of Texas A&M’s football stadium, Kyle Field, was one of the most high-profile projects in Echelon and Amerimix history. With the renovation, Kyle Field’s capacity increased to 102,733, making it the biggest college stadium i

Australian Bricks vs American Bricks: What 24 Hours of Travel Teaches You About the Trade
June 2026

Bricklaying might not change simply because you cross a state line. It does change when you travel 24 hours to the other side of the world and lay bricks under lights, cameras, and a stopwatch. The fundamentals of the trade are universal. Brick, mortar,

2026 Masonry Foundation Grants Now Open
June 2026

The Masonry Foundation is dedicated to advancing the masonry industry and is accepting grant applications for 2026. Proposals should have national reach and aim to generate substantial progress within the masonry industry. To explore examples of past gra

Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
June 2026

As a business owner and leader, taking the mental health of your employees seriously and understanding how it can impact their work is essential. In fact, one in five adults experiences a mental health condition annually. Addressing mental health is more