Masonry Magazine August 1996 Page. 11
Spotlight on Training
The continuous need for well-trained masons is a fact that nobody will dispute. However, the methods that are used to recruit and train masons is often a topic of discussion.
The MCAA supports the idea of comprehensive flexibility. That is, that individuals should be given the most comprehensive training possible. However, each specific program should be designed in a way that is most beneficial for the areas and the people that the program serves.
This is why the MCAA also believes that to be successful, training programs must have support from a committee made up of local area contractors, educators and other industry representatives. Together, these individuals can design, support and promote a program that provides quality training, but addresses some of the particular issues certain areas or regions may face.
The training programs focused on in this article provide a look at several different ways that our members are addressing the need for masonry training. While the ultimate goal of these programs is to produce qualified masons, the method of attaining that goal varies. However, one common thread running through all of these programs is involvement by local contractors and educators.
Apprentices from the Arizona Mason Contractors
Arizona
By Connie Kitzinger
Director of Education
Mason Contractors Association of America
Two years ago, after many months of discussion, the Arizona Mason Contractors began to take earnest steps toward the development of a three-year, Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program. Now, with two classes of apprentices under their belt, members of the Apprenticeship Committee are very pleased with their program and are looking forward to the future.
According to Bob Ahlers, Apprenticeship Training Committee Chairmen, the key ingredient to the success of the program has been the contractor involvement and the close working relationship between the local vocation school and the Apprenticeship Committee. "We all saw the need for a masonry training program. After two successful