2025 World Of Concrete Recap

Words: Justin Stengel

Every January, the World of Concrete Convention holds events in Las Vegas that push innovation and knowledge within the masonry industry. The MCAA held its annual GEN NXT party, Larry Vacala accepted the esteemed Leadman Award, and the Fastest Trowel On the Block title was retained by a four-time champion.

Foreman Development Course
This year's Foreman Development Course was conducted on Sunday, January 19th, and Monday, January 20th. Expert trainers Jameel Ervin, Donnie Williams, and Tom Vacala provided attendees with essential and instructional tactics to equip them for their emerging roles as Foremen. To stay updated on future classes and events, visit www.masoncontractors.org.

C. DeWitt Brown Leadman Award
Each year, the Mason Contractors Association of America honors individuals with the C. DeWitt Brown Leadman Award for their leadership in advancing the masonry industry. This year, the award was presented to Larry Vacala, a respected figure in the industry, during the MCAA’s Annual Board Meeting on Monday, January 20th.

Recipients of this award consistently show unwavering dedication and support to the industry, ensuring its importance and the security of countless jobs.

Contractor Round Table
Following the board meeting, the Contractor Round Table took place, offering contractors a platform to discuss challenges of the past year, exchange advice, and seek guidance from peers. Discussion topics included:

Improving Training
Time Management and Workflow
Succession Planning
Code Changes and Compliance
Recruiting at High Schools

Contractor Brunch/Pigtales Video
The attendees were treated with a full course meal for brunch and got the first look at the MCAA’s new video project titled “Pigtales” which portrayed a retelling of the famous Three Little Pigs story to show how durable masonry material really is.

GEN NXT Party at Atomic Golf
The MCAA hosted its yearly GEN NXT event at Atomic Golf on Monday, January 20th. With over 300 attendees engaged in competitions and networking, the event was a resounding success!

MAC PAC
At this year’s MAC PAC meeting, Stephen Borg spoke about new policies and regulations revolving around the new Administration as well as Congress, and what that may mean for the MCAA.

MCAA Booth
Starting Tuesday, January 21th, the MCAA booth was operational for the week. The booth, located in the South Hall and joined by two of our BSP partners (Discount Tire and Lowe’s), acted as a hub for industry leaders and members.

We thank everyone who visited our booth and supported the Association!

MCAA Skills Challenge
The Masonry Skills Challenge, organized by the MCAA, is the national competition for masonry apprentices at the first, second, and third-year levels. Participants, who are young masonry apprentices, have three hours to exhibit their skills. They compete against regional winners from around the world to determine the leading apprentices in each skill category. This highly anticipated event not only displays the skills of young masons but also emphasizes career prospects in the masonry industry.

First Year Apprentice Winners
First Place: Michael McKee, Foti Contracting, Norton,OH
Second Place: Cade Thixton, John Smith Masonry, Rolla, MO
Third Place: Jared Slocum II, BAC 4 IN/KY Apprenticeship, Columbus, IN

Second Year Apprentice Winners
First Place: Mason Ridenhour, Ridenhour Masonry, Rockwell, NC
Second Place: Eon Spears, Leidal & Hart, Jackson, OH
Third Place: Matthew Mccarty, Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local #2NY/VT, Fulton, NY

Third Year Apprentice Winners
First Place: Alec Huntley, Huntley Brothers Company, Inc., Monroe, NC
Second Place: Kyle Blower, LGBlower, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, UK
Third Place: Andrew Huff, Mason Contractors Associaton of Western Pennsylvania, Connellsville, PA

Michael McKee Mason Ridenhour Alec Huntley

2025 Fastest Trowel On The Block
The Fastest Trowel On The Block competition promotes superior speed and craftsmanship in the masonry industry. With the support of their selected tender, journeyman masons participate in an exciting 20-minute challenge that highlights their abilities in a fast-paced contest. Only journeymen with the necessary skills, precision, and composure have the chance to compete against the industry's best.

First Place: Gerardo Patlan, Vulcan Fence LLC, Laveen AZ
Tender: Robert Patlan

Second Place: Roberto Cimental, JG Block CO, Phoenix AZ
Tender: Mark Diaz

Third Place: Luis Felipe Centeno, Sargon Masonry Construction, LLC, Phoenix AZ
Tender: Adrian Centeno

Gerardo Patlan

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