MCAA Gateway: November 2017 Cont.

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

Hill Named MCAA South of 40 Committee Co-Chair

Mason Hill appointed to the South of 40 Committee

Mason S. Hill, VP of Hill Masonry Inc. (Billings, Mont.), has been appointed Co-Chairman of the MCAA’s South of 40 Committee. As Co-Chairman, Mason looks forward to contributing his knowledge of masonry to the MCAA’s South of 40 Committee while continuing to educate and employ a workforce that reflects his belief in the trade. Mason is driven by his passion to actively recruit and educate a younger workforce about the benefits of pursuing a career in masonry. Mason, a third generation mason born into the masonry industry, jokes that perhaps his name was the best indication that he was destined to learn the trade. Mason himself is an example that with hard work and determination anyone can achieve. Not only did he learn the job from the ground up working onsite side by side with bricklayers and hod carriers, he also threw himself into the interworking of the management and estimating side of the business. After attending one semester of college, he left to focus on growing the family business with a more hands-on approach. Now as VP of the company, Mason personally recognizes the benefits of both the “stone age” way and the “modern technology” approach to the trade, and strives to integrate the best of both to run a successful company. Hill Masonry headquartered in Billings, Mont., is one of the largest masonry construction companies in the region. Founded in 1991, Hill Masonry is a full service masonry contractor specializing primarily in commercial masonry. Hill Masonry employs a knowledgeable staff to work directly with clients, architects and engineers, along with a team of highly experienced superintendents, project foremen and qualified masons to consistently complete any size project. Hill Masonry offers an apprenticeship program and works closely with high school and college students, employing them in the masonry trade while accommodating their educational schedule to ensure success once they graduate. Hill Masonry has been recognized over the years for their dedication to safety and quality of their work. The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and our members welcome Mason to his new role.  
Is Contact with Wet Mortar or Grout Dangerous?
April 2026

In the world of masonry, few materials are as common as mortar and grout. Whether you are laying brick, concrete masonry units (CMU), or pouring grout into masonry walls, wet cement and mortar are constant companions. However, beneath their utility lies a

The Importance of Instructor Support
April 2026

Whether you are a new or veteran masonry instructor, we all need support throughout our careers. We can never stop learning, and keeping up with ever-changing technology, materials, and installation techniques can be overwhelming alongside the everyday pr

Vibing Masonry #11: Innovative Concrete Masonry Technologies in Healthcare Design
April 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare design, every material choice is a clinical decision. Architects, engineers, and facility administrators are tasked with creating spaces that are not only resilient and code-compliant but also conducive to heal

Why Termination Bars Still Matter: A Practical Look at Long‑Term Flashing Performance
April 2026

In recent discussions across the masonry industry, I have heard termination bars described as “old school.” The implication is that with modern materials, primerless peel-and-stick flashings, advanced sealants, and structural insulated sheathing, mechanic