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.
URGENT: Only One Cornerstone Spot Remains in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program
May 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is thrilled to announce that the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program (MAP) has reached a critical stage of exclusivity.

The Compliance Shield: Navigating the New Standards of Field Oversight
May 2026

The modern job site is undergoing a quiet but significant transformation. While the physical act of laying a block remains the core of the trade, the environment surrounding that work is becoming increasingly data-driven. We are moving away from the era o

When GEORGE Met BOB: Ironsite Is MCAA's First AI-Centered Cornerstone Partner
May 2026

Earlier this year at World of Concrete, I taught the AI Test Drive class and gave attendees an early look at GEORGE 3.0, which we're set to release later this year. As I was wrapping up the session and people were still asking questions, the team from Iro

Ironsite Joins Masonry Alliance Program as Newest Cornerstone Partner
May 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is thrilled to announce that Ironsite will be joining the Masonry Alliance Program (MAP) at the Cornerstone level.