GEN NXT: Arnold Barboan

Words: Justin Stengel

In an interview with the MCAA, Arnold Barboan shares his journey and insights into the masonry industry, highlighting the personal connections and passions that have helped shape his career.

Arnold's initial involvement in masonry was inspired by family ties. With his grandfather and younger brother involved in masonry back in New Mexico, Arnold had an interest to join them. Working on railroads at the time, he decided to switch paths and began his journey as a tender, driven by the desire to work alongside his family in the same industry.

MCAA: How did you first get involved in the masonry industry?

Arnold Barboan: Well, my grandpa and my little brother, who’re back in New Mexico, they used to do a lot of masonry. And I felt like I was left out because I was on the railroad, so I dropped everything, and I started doing masonry as a tender. I wanted to join them and work in the same industry as them.

When asked what attracted him to a career in masonry, Arnold states how the craft is an art form. The process of constructing a wall or building with bricks appealed to him and his appreciation for hard work.

MCAA: What was it that made you want to follow a career in masonry?

Arnold Barboan: I just like the way everything gets put together. It felt like an art to me, so I just liked it. So, the actual look of brick in a wall or building as well as the hard work that came with it.

Arnold highlights his favorite aspects of being a mason as learning from others, acquiring new skills, meeting new people, and continuously moving forward. The industry provides an environment where growth and development go hand in hand.

MCAA: What's been your favorite part about being a mason?

Arnold Barboan: I like learning how people carry themselves, learning new things, meeting new people, and just keep moving forward.

Throughout his career, Arnold has faced challenges, particularly in communication and technique. Navigating different methods and ensuring alignment with clients' expectations can be tough, but it has also been a learning experience.

MCAA: What type of challenges have you had to overcome in your career?

Arnold Barboan: Sometimes people want things done in a certain way, and I don't know how to do it their way. So, it's kind of hard to try to communicate with people who don't know how to do it their way, just the way I was taught.

Family is a major motivator for Arnold, driving him in his work every day. His wife and children provide the inspiration and support that keep him dedicated to his craft.

MCAA: What about masonry keeps you coming back every single day?

Arnold Barboan: It keeps me coming back every day because of my kids and my family, my wife. I got them. That's why I keep coming back, because of them. My family and my kids.

According to Arnold, the distinction between a good mason and a great mason lies in mentorship. A good mason prioritizes safety and procedures, while a great mason takes it further by offering guidance on skills and techniques, fostering a supportive learning environment.

MCAA: What do you think separates a good mason from a great mason?

Arnold Barboan: A good mason will give you the heads up on safety and procedures, and a great mason will teach you how to pick up mud, will give you pointers on how to do things without getting mad or frustrated.

Looking ahead, Arnold envisions retiring as a mason. Open to opportunities such as becoming a foreman, he remains committed to the industry, valuing its potential for career growth and personal satisfaction.

MCAA: What are your plans for the future of your career?

Arnold Barboan: I think I'm gonna retire as a mason, or do everything or whatever they tell me. As in move up to being a foreman or if I get offered another position. But I do want to stay in this industry and retire as a mason.

GEN NXT: Arnold Barboan

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