March 2012: World of Concrete/World of Masonry

Words: Dan Kamys World of Concrete/World of Masonry Increased Attendance and a Silver Lining

The SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 is about to commence. The SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 is about to commence.

After several years of doom and gloom, vendors and attendees at this year’s World of Concrete/World of Masonry show in Las Vegas put up increased attendance numbers – 52,088 – and had smiles on their faces. The overall tone relayed that, perhaps, the dark clouds of a crumbled economy are lifting, and things are slowly beginning to turn around for commercial construction.

MCAA’s Annual Convention featured several educational sessions, committee meetings, award dinners, and both the International Masonry Skills Challenge and the Fastest Trowel on the Block Competition (see coverage on pages 14-16).

The 10th annual SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 national bricklaying championship winner was Leif Reints of Reints Masonry Works in Neosho, Mo., won first place after laying 583 bricks in one hour. He took home a FORD F-250 4x4 truck, $5,000 and sponsor prizes worth thousands of dollars. The TOP CRAFTSMAN award was given to mason Scott Tuttle of Quik Trowell Masonry, Clearfield, Utah. Tuttle laid 474 bricks and won $5,000 in cash, a Multiquip EM120S mixer, a STIHL TS 420 A-EWC Cutquik cut-off machine and thousands in sponsor prizes. His tender was Brian Tuttle. Look for extended coverage of the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 in the April 2012 issue of Masonry.

Return to Table of Contents
Different Career Paths for Masons

Becoming a mason is a skilled trade that has been an integral part of construction for centuries. As a mason, you not only build structures but also lay the foundation for a variety of career paths that can enhance your professional journey. My journey a

About: Featured
Essential Masonry Maintenance Tips

Known for its durability, strength, and timeless appeal, brick’s low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for homeowners looking to save on maintenance costs or those in extreme climate zones. While brick requires minimal upkeep in comparison

About: Featured
The Importance of Safety Footwear on Masonry Jobsites

Masonry work is a trade built around craftsmanship, strength, and precision. However, it's also a profession that comes with risk. From falling bricks and collapsing walls to sharp debris and rough, uneven surfaces, masonry job sites can be hazardous for

Heidelberg Materials' "Low Carbon Masonry Construction" Webinar Recapv

Heidelberg Materials is a prominent player in the building materials industry. Specializing in heavy building materials, they have a global footprint with a significant presence in North America. Their products include cement, slag, fly ash, and aggregate