St. Louis Hosts MCAA Foreman Development Course

Words: Jameel Ervin, Tom Vacala, Donnie Williams

The MCAA's newly-redeveloped Foreman Development Course went on the road August 24th and 25th in St. Louis, MO. The course was developed and taught by Tom Vacala, Jameel Ervin, and Donnie Williams. The course was developed by masons, keeping masonry essentials at the forefront of the two-day class. Leadership skills, situational experiences, and more are covered throughout the class. 

The class has been developed for those who have the potential to become foremen and those who have been foremen within the industry for years. Everyone should leave with something new to implement at their respective organization. 

The program was created to be a continual development class, and to serve as a networking tool for foremen all over the country. A Foreman Development II Course is currently in development. Next, the class will be taught in conjunction with the Arizona Masonry Council on October 4th and 5th. After that, the class will make its World of Concrete debut in Last Vegas on January 16th and 17th. 

If you are interested in hosting the course for your company or in your area, please contact Jeff at the MCAA office by emailing jeffb@masoncontractors.org for more details. 

Masonry Mortar: The Right Type for the Job
May 2025

When it comes to masonry construction, mortar is much more than “glue” that holds everything together — it’s a critical component of wall performance, longevity, and aesthetics. It can “make it or break it”. Whether you’re laying a foundation CMU wall or

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 20 Recap: Mark Kemp, Superior Masonry
May 2025

How It’s Made: Clay Thin Brick
May 2025

Clay thin brick is a versatile alternative to traditional full brick. It comes in numerous colors and styles and offers something for every design preference. Thanks to the lighter weight, it is designed to reach spaces full brick cannot. From floors to c

Bonding with Masonry 2025: Q1
May 2025

This issue’s questions come from an Architect and a Mason Contractor. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk. Q. An Architect asks how to create a narrow masonry pier between openings. Is there a min