Masonry Contest at N.C. State Fair

Words: Dan Kamys masonry contest

Rhett Hallman was the 1st-place winner at the 56th Annual Masonry Apprentice Contest at the North Carolina State Fair in October.

Hallman, who works for McGee Brothers Co., won a $325 premium from the State Fair, a plaque and an assortment of sponsor prizes for his efforts. Apprenticeships have been the backbone of North Carolina’s work preparation programs for more than 70 years. Apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with related classroom instruction to prepare exceptional workers for North Carolina and America’s industry.

Jared Gandy, who also works for McGee Brothers Co., placed second. Macy Williams, who works for Brodie Contractors, took home 3rd-place honors.

Fifteen masonry apprentices competed in the contest. To be eligible to compete, apprentices must be registered in the occupation and training with an employer with a program registered with the N.C. Department of Labor.

Safe Driving, Safe Job: A Masonry Crew's Guide to Vehicle Safety
February 2026

Every day, we load up our trucks and head out to the next job. Our vehicles are more than just a ride; they're our mobile workshops, carrying the tools and materials we need to build our proj

MCAA President and CEO Jeff Buczkiewicz To Testify Congress On AI
February 2026

On February 11, 2026, Jeff Buczkiewicz, President and CEO of the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), will testify before the House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections. Representing a $41 billion industry, Buczkiewicz plans to showcase GEORG

Vibing Masonry #10: Clay Brick Masonry Development from Ancient Roots to Future Innovation
February 2026

Clay brick, one of humanity’s oldest building materials, has shaped civilizations for millennia. Its inherent durability, versatility, and accessibility made it a basic component of architecture. The material's history is one of continuous technological i

2026 Masonry Hall Of Fame Nominations Are Open
February 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Masonry Hall of Fame, brought to you on behalf of the MCAA's Cornerstone Partners. Nominations will close on March 31, 2026.