Big Things, Small Beginnings

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

Big Things, Small Beginnings

Dan Kamys, Editorial Director - dkamys@staging1.masonrymagazine.com

The above is a modification of a quote I’ve always liked. Big things have small beginnings. That’s why this month in particular is full of small beginnings that could potentially turn into big things down the road. With everything from the future of the workforce, MCAA, our magazines, and even construction itself in this issue, it really is a progressive copy of MASONRY in terms of content. Now, as I’m sure you read in our August issue, the MCAA and MASONRY Publications has formed a partnership with XYZ University. A formal press release doesn’t really tell you the important things, like more about the work they do and what we hope to accomplish. In this issue, you’ll see more about them and the important bridges they’re trying to create between generations. Also in this issue, you’re going to find out about an exciting new partnership between MASONRY Publications and the American Institute of Architecture Students. The relationship we’ve formed with them will include distribution of MASONRY DESIGN Magazine to their 5,669 student members. We also look forward to highlighting AIAS’ student and former members, partners, and universities in every upcoming issue of that magazine. The entire team here is thrilled, and think it will be an instrumental step in helping the design community become educated on the potential of masonry. Our cover story this issue is about a company called Fastbrick Robotics (FBR). They’re an Australian group determined to close Australia’s respective housing and skilled workforce shortages through automating portions of the block construction process. The technology, referred to as Hadrian X, is still a work-in-progress with several challenges ahead but absolutely fascinating to talk with and about. I’m very excited to say that MASONRY Publications will be the only masonry-oriented publication in the US to get firsthand news and developments from FBR. Hadrian X’s implications for closing America’s workforce gap through implementing technology and automating portions of a job are amazing. The most important part is that while it will do some of the labor-intensive grunt work on a job site, it won’t replace the craft and art form of masonry. The masons still have a place, although job roles may change. I wrote an intro specific to that story, so make sure to read it for more about how this story developed. As you see from the cover itself, this really is one of the more cutting-edge issues, and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed crafting the stories and working on the layout for the magazine. As always, we’d love to hear your feedback, and suggestions for how we could improve! CORRECTION: The SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® Regional ad from last month’s issue incorrectly stated that the October 11thNorth Texas event would be held in Rockwall, TX. We inadvertently ran an earlier version of the ad. The city should be Dallas, TX. Apologies for any inconveniences that we caused. dsig
Westminster Abbey Roof Repairs Race To Protect The Masonry Below
April 2026

Westminster Abbey is undergoing long-awaited repairs to its roof, and experts involved in the work say they have discovered hidden secrets along the way. For the masonry industry, the story is less about what's up top and more about what sits beneath it.

The Daily Digest
Read More
Building Stonework That Lasts Beyond the Surface
April 2026

How Today’s Systems Strengthen Traditional Masonry In masonry, longevity has always been the true measure of craftsmanship. Any wall can look impressive the day it’s finished, but the real test comes years later, after the first freeze-thaw cycle, after t

Rob McKay
Technical Talks
Read More
Mastering The Art Of Masonry Repair: The Dos and Don’ts
April 2026

Whether we specialize in repairs and restoration work or new construction, repairs are something that we all must do, at least from time to time. With ever-increasing competition from faster and cheaper building systems, the onus is on us as masonry profe

John Bard
Technical Talks
Read More
Brick And Glass Meet In Paris Park Community Center Design
April 2026

A Designboom feature spotlights a community center set in a Paris park, described as a monolithic brick building that is cut through by a glazed facade.

The Daily Digest
Read More