Getting Back Together

Words: Todd Fredrick

Dan Kamys, Editorial Director - dkamys@masonrymagazine.com

  I always look forward to our August issue, because it typically means I get to talk a little bit about our MCAA Midyear Meeting in September. It goes without saying that this year, things are a little different as we head into the meeting. However, we are all hopeful that this year’s meeting in French Lick, Indiana, will happen as normally and safely as possible.  Since I’ve started working here, I’ve particularly enjoyed the Midyear Meetings as an opportunity to get to know attendees better. Especially now, I think we’re all missing a little bit of the camaraderie and connection that our in-person meetings offer. Obviously, we want to make sure that everyone stays safe, but a normal-ish meeting would be something I think we’d all welcome.  If you are planning on attending and this is your first Midyear Meeting, make sure to stop and introduce yourself to Jeff, Todd, and I. We always like to meet our new members and can help you network with other contractors. One of the things that we are most excited about is our new two-day, Hands-On Speed Dating. Perhaps the name should be Socially Distanced and Highly Sanitized Hands-On Speed Dating. I’m a dad, I can make those terrible jokes now. But I’m sure there will be plenty of hand sanitizer on hand. This new variation of our traditional Speed Dating event takes things out of hotel suites and into a new venue. Monday evening, we will have a Preview Night reception for attendees to take an early look at what they will be seeing the following day. On Tuesday, participating companies will be educating contractors on the latest advancements in technology and equipment. Contractors will have the opportunity to try out most of what they see.  Another favorite of our Midyear Meetings is the Contractor Round Table session. This year, it will take place on Wednesday. It gives contractors who would probably not otherwise get the chance to connect an opportunity to talk about the issues they face. Please bring along any topics you would like to discuss, and speak up. These meetings are also an opportunity for our Media team to develop content based around these topics, so the more discussion points the better.  All in all, we look forward to another Midyear Meeting and welcoming the masonry industry back together. See you soon!  dsig
Building the Future: NCMCA’s Success in Apprenticeship Across North Carolina
October 2026

THE PAST How the Groundwork Was Laid to Build the Future of Apprenticeship Across North Carolina My Registered Apprenticeship began in the early 90’s. I went back to the archives and dug out a few pictures of my apprenticeship pathway. In 1992, as an a

Brandy Shaver Ryan Shaver
Resources
Read More
Means and Methods: A Testimonial is More Than a Review
October 2026

A positive review can tell someone that a user is satisfied with the brand. A detailed testimonial can tell them why. When professionals speak about their experiences, they not only go into the features of the product but also focus on the challenges elim

Elsa Bueno
MAP Partner
Read More
3 Promise Labor Services Continues as a Gold in 2027
October 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is happy to announce that 3 Promise Labor Services will continue as a Gold Partner in the 2027 Masonry Alliance Program.

MAP Partner
MAP Partner
Read More
Kraft Tool Co. Returns as a Silver Partner in 2027
October 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is pleased to announce that Kraft Tool Co. will return as a Silver Partner in the 2027 Masonry Alliance Program.

MAP Partner
MAP Partner
Read More