The Future’s Getting Brighter

Words: Larry Vacala, Dan Kamys, Ashton White, Otis Wilson

The Future's Getting Brighter

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

I wish I could say it was all planned, but a lot of things fell into place to make this month a heavy Workforce Development issue. As you know, Workforce Development is one of the cornerstones of the MASONRY mission since Bronzella and I have been handling the editorial side. We’re particularly excited to highlight the young workforce in our GEN NXT featuring SkillsUSA Masonry Post-Secondary winner Ashton White, our SkillsUSA Recap, and the Workforce Development Program created by the MCAA’s Treasurer Larry Vacala and former NFL Linebacker Otis Wilson. Additionally, you’ll find an exciting announcement about a partnership between the MCAA/MASONRY Publications and consulting firm XYZ University. Since 2002, they’ve focused on generational shifts in the marketplace alongside economic, workforce, and social change. Not only are they developing a program for the 2019 World of Concrete, but you’re going to be hearing from them in the upcoming issues of the magazine. Being the father of a young son, I am truly grateful at how my role here has opened my eyes to the variety of educational opportunities outside of a four-year university degree. A traditional college is a respectable career path, but so is a vocational education. I’m still learning as a parent, but I think our fundamental role is to expose our children to all the opportunities and paths that are out there. On a larger scale, I truly hope that’s what we’re able to do with the magazine. A tremendous thank you to Ashton White for agreeing to be interviewed on such short notice for GEN NXT and to Brandon Hartsell for working so quickly to set it up. We are incredibly grateful to Larry Vacala, Otis Wilson, IMI and Kenny Davis for facilitating the program for young students and talking to us about the program for this issue. I’d like to also write a quick note to all of the SkillsUSA competitors. Not only are you on the path to starting an incredible career and the next generation of the masonry industry, but you’re setting an example for all young people out there that there is more than one path to a fulfilled life. I hope you enjoy reading our Notre Dame American Treasure. This series has been an absolute pleasure, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone at Notre Dame who facilitated the tour and helped us with the article. As a final note, please make sure to read about our upcoming Mid-Year in Austin. I look forward to seeing you out there!   dsig
Mast Climbing Work Platform Check List – Significant Seven
May 2025

Many MCAA members and Mast Climbing Work Platform equipment owners have been asking for a copy of a presentation completed by Hydro Mobile at Mid-Year 2022. The basis of the presentation is for owners and users of Mast Climbing Work Platforms to establish

Eric Johnson Rob Faro
Featured MAP Partner
General Education Residential Restoration
Read More
Youth Outreach and Education Arm Attends the Leon Works Career Fair
May 2025

On Friday, April 25, the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) participated in the Leon Works Expo in Tallahassee, FL, reaching over 1,000 high school students from Leon County and surrounding areas. In collaboration with local contractor Masonr

Conner Birdsong
Read More
Work Trucks Need Hard-working Tires
May 2025

Whatever you’re hauling, whatever job site you’re headed to, your work truck needs to be dependable. It’s a vital part of your livelihood. That’s why it’s important to check what holds your work truck up, namely the tires. Simply put, the right tires (alo

Eric Johnson William Groak
Featured
Block General Education Natural Stone Residential Restoration
Read More
Youth Outreach and Education Arm Attends the 2025 Florida SkillsUSA Competition
May 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), in partnership with Florida Masonry Inc., proudly participated in the 2025 Florida SkillsUSA competition. This year’s masonry contest featured seven skilled student competitors and drew significant atte

Conner Birdsong
Featured
Read More