Report of the MCAA Workforce Development Committee

Words: Calvin Brodie

Masonry Training Series

The Masonry Training Series has experienced a slow down in sales this year, which is most likely due to the current economic situation. We will continue reviewing all existing training programs and updating along with surveying membership for additional apprenticeship training programs. We anticipate the start of development of a mason tender program this year. Our effort will done cooperatively with the Education Committee.

Skills USA

The MCAA continues to support the work of the Skills USA and participate on the Masonry Technical Committee to sponsor and facilitate the national championships in Kansas City each June. The MCAA works with many other industry affiliates to make this program a success.

Fastest Trowel Contest

This year we have 16 contestants participating in the contest. Sponsorship was significantly down this year due to the current economic situation. We expect an exciting contest and expect crowds similar to what we had last year.

Masonry Skills Challenge

Once again the Masonry Skills Challenge will be highlighted at the convention. Due to the economy only regions B, C, G and Mid Atlantic regions will be competing in the contest. We have 4 1st yr. and we 5 each for the 2nd. and 3rd year programs, for a total of 14 competitors. We are currently discussing the option of adding a journeyman category for 2011 to highlight the skill of journeymen in the industry.
Designing for Performance: Key Considerations for Efficient, Durable Masonry Projects
August 2026

A successful masonry project starts well before the first stone is set. The craftsmanship on site matters, of course, but many of the decisions that shape the final result are made much earlier—during design, detailing, and material selection. Those choic

Jeff Tew
MAP Partner
Manufactured Stone MAP Partner Stone (Exterior) Stone (Interior)
Read More
Change Orders: Standard Operating Procedure
August 2026

In masonry construction, change orders are not occasional events; they are guaranteed. Drawings do not always match field conditions, specifications can conflict, and real-world construction has a way of exposing gaps in design. At DRP Masonry, we operat

Donnie Williams
Resources
Read More
RFIs: Clarity, Communication and... Hierarchy?
August 2026

In construction, any project starts with drawings. Plans. Schedules. Specifications. Whether we're talking about new construction, additions, or restoration, there is a plan, there is design intent, and a way every piece of a project needs to fit together

Kate Vienna
Technical Talks
Read More
Zero Laydown: Navigating the Logistics of Tight Urban Job Sites
August 2026

In modern commercial construction, spatial real estate has become just as valuable as the materials themselves. The industry shift toward high-density, urban projects means that the sprawling job sites of the past have been replaced by tight footprints wh

Shayne Sanders
MAP Partner
Read More