MCAA Regional Report, Region G

Words: Glenn HottmannArizona - Tony Avila
Colorado - No State Chairman
New Mexico - No State Chairman
Utah - No State Chairman
Wyoming - No State Chairman

Workforce Development

Arizona

The most common problem affecting our members is workforce development and acquiring new employees. Some our members are turning to new technology to supplement their existing workforce. One Arizona masonry contractor was the first to start using the Mule by Construction Robotics and they are extremely happy with the results they have seen. So much so that it convinced me to invest in several machines.

We started using the Mule by Construction Robotics three months ago and found it to be a viable tool to help prolong the longevity of our senior tradesmen. With some of them boasting that they will be able to continue laying block for another 20 years. We are also very happy with the production increases on 12 inch block. As the labor markets continue to tighten, we will need to attract more young people into our trade and we will also need to supplement the productivity and lifespan of the current workforce.

Our AMCA (Arizona Masonry Contractors Association) apprenticeship program is also a very valuable tool to train and improve the skills of our apprentices. We have a record 35 new first year apprentices starting this year. Please invest in your people this year and get some of them enrolled into your local program.

General & Economic Conditions

Arizona


2018 is in the rear view and 2019 is here. Last year was a very busy and rewarding year for most of our members and our employees. Most of our members report record sales volumes and historic backlog going into 2019. With all this work, employee wages have continued to rise and new employees have been scarce.

Market Expansion & Initiatives

Arizona

Our markets within the state of Arizona have expanded on all levels. Housing has been up at a record pace. Our public sector has taken off with schools, fire stations, court houses, and public utilities. The retail sector is also strong for the year 2019. This has been made possible by the strong economy and the influx of people moving into our state.

Safety

Arizona

OSHA continues to do their normal inspections through out the state with limited check on Silica compliance. They continue to educate themselves on how they will enforce this. At present, they check to see if you have started a plan to address the silica hazard in our working field. There has been notable improvements with other trades in reference to silica also.
Manufactured Stone Veneer or Thin-Cut Natural Stone: Which One is Right for Your Next Project?
May 2026

Stone continues to be a go-to material in both residential and commercial construction, used for its texture, depth and ability to elevate a façade or interior space. For masons, general contractors, builders and design professionals looking for lightweig

Sarah Lograsso
MAP Partner
Read More
The Behind-the-Wall Secrets Every Mason Already Knows (But Some Ignore)
May 2026

You’ve been around long enough to know this already: stone doesn’t fail on the face; it fails behind the wall. You can lay the prettiest veneer in the county, but if the prep is junk, that wall’s gonna start telling on you after a couple of winters. Manu

Rob McKay
Technical Talks
Read More
Masonry Innovation in Action: Belden Brick’s Glazed Thin Brick Redefines Design Possibilities
May 2026

Masonry innovation is pivotal in shaping the built environment, and The Belden Brick Company is at the forefront of this evolution. Architects, designers, and contractors increasingly seek materials that marry high performance with bold aesthetics, and Be

Kristie Fitzgerald
MAP Partner
Read More
Celebrating Craftsmanship and Country
May 2026

The 250th anniversary of the United States is more than a date. It is a reflection of centuries of progress, innovation, and determination. STABILA has chosen to mark this milestone with a product that mirrors those same qualities. The Patriot Series Maso

Elsa Bueno
MAP Partner
Read More