CMU Check-Off Assessments Begin April 1

Words: Isa Stein

After a decade plus worth of work by the industry to secure a check-off program for concrete block, it will officially start collecting assessments this Saturday, April 1. We are excited to see the start of this program, which will bring significant national and regional investments for the concrete block industry. It is estimated that the program will bring in $10 million per year.

Funds will be used for a variety of activities. The goal of the program is to help restore market share for the concrete block community. You will likely see some type of reference to the CMU Check-Off Program from your block suppliers (if you have not already). Ultimately, know that the pennies that go into this program will ultimately help our industry in the long run through the funding of many efforts.

The Program is governed by a Board of Directors who will ultimately be responsible for the stewardship of the funds. Look for more details on program support in early 2024.

Jeff Buczkiewicz, President of Mason Contractors Association of America


Smarter Time Tracking on the Jobsite: Introducing Geofence Notifications and Logging in CrewTracks
April 2026

For masonry contractors, time tracking is more than just a payroll task; it’s a key part of managing crews, understanding job costs, and keeping projects running smoothly. Yet many companies still struggle with one common challenge: making sure employees

Fechino Files: Diesels Below 32 Degrees
April 2026

I am guessing that if you are reading this, then you experienced the cold, late-January spell that took over most of the country. The cold weather has many effects on the operations of a masonry contractor, from job shutdowns to equipment starting issues,

Outreach Outlook: Building Momentum Across the Southern Region
April 2026

As April arrives, the pace of our outreach and workforce efforts across the Southern Region reaches a new level of intensity. This is the time of year when our programs, partners, and state collaborators all accelerate at once. SkillsUSA competitions are

Marvelous Masonry: Elbphilharmonie
April 2026

Most people know the Elbphilharmonie for its glass façade and dramatic roofline. From a distance, that’s what defines the skyline in Hamburg’s HafenCity district. But for masonry contractors and suppliers, the real story starts at the base.