January 2010: Making the Grade

Words: Dan Kamys

January 2010

Making the Grade

Persistence and Continued Technical Education

Gary Kline

Gary Kline is strong and driven, which will make him a successful mason throughout his life.
A three-year student in the masonry program at Harford Tech High School in Bel Air, Md., Gary Kline has applied for admission to The Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades, Media, Pa. If accepted, he would start classes in the fall of 2010. In the meantime, Kline has enrolled in business classes at Harford Community College. He intends to work masonry jobs as he can, while maintaining his studies there. Kline’s instructor at Harford Technical High School, Gary Siler, speaks highly of Kline. “Gary came to Harford Tech as a tenth-grader and was a wonderful student for all three years,” Siler says. “Ours is a four-year school, so he had to adapt and catch up quickly. He did just that. He was an honor roll student with a perfect attendance record. In addition, he played varsity volleyball and wrestled. “I thoroughly enjoyed coaching him in wrestling and teaching him, as well,” Siler continues. “He exhibited the same effort and commitment whenever he competed, whether it was on the mat or with a trowel in his hand. “Gary Kline is a strong, driven young man,” he says. “I believe his future looks bright. I totally enjoyed teaching Gary, and I already miss his leadership skills in the classroom.” Kline worked for Siler during the last three summers, helping with masonry, carpentry and plumbing projects. Siler is a masonry instructor of 21 years, having sponsored seven contestants in the SkillsUSA national masonry contest. Kline was one of them, placing eighth in the secondary division of the 2009 contest held at H. Roe Bartle Hall in Kansas City, Mo. As one might guess, Kline credits his instructor. “Gary Siler has influenced me greatly, and taught me everything I know,” he says. “He gave me the confidence I have and helped me through many ups and downs.” Return to Table of Contents
From Idea to Jobsite: Inside EZG’s R&D Process
May 2026

In the masonry industry, equipment is rarely developed in isolation. The most effective tools are shaped by real jobsite challenges and refined through contractor feedback. At EZG Manufacturing, research and development is a hands-on, iterative process th

Abigail Spung
MAP Partner
Read More
Announcing The MASONRY STRONG Network™
May 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is proud to announce the MASONRY STRONG Network, a video-first multimedia platform. This marks the next chapter for the Association’s MASONRY, the brand that has informed and connected the trade for over

Dan Kamys
Read More
Manufactured Stone Veneer or Thin-Cut Natural Stone: Which One is Right for Your Next Project?
May 2026

Stone continues to be a go-to material in both residential and commercial construction, used for its texture, depth and ability to elevate a façade or interior space. For masons, general contractors, builders and design professionals looking for lightweig

Sarah Lograsso
MAP Partner
Read More
Celebrating Craftsmanship and Country
May 2026

The 250th anniversary of the United States is more than a date. It is a reflection of centuries of progress, innovation, and determination. STABILA has chosen to mark this milestone with a product that mirrors those same qualities. The Patriot Series Maso

Elsa Bueno
MAP Partner
Read More