Masonry Magazine May 2001 Page. 15
Apprentias
sonry Arts leads the discussion on industry
Spencer Brickwork, Mike Heitkamp of atter of Sutter Masonry and Andy Sneed rce development goals.
then the Board approved the actions of the regions and committees. The Board traditionally spent little time on the future and planning for the future of the industry. The MCAA has now moved toward a forward-thinking system of strategic governance to guide the association where the majority of the Board's time is spent strategically thinking about the future of the masonry industry and the impact the MCAA will have in shaping that future. Board and committee members will begin asking questions such as "What will construction be like thirty years from now? Who will our industry's competitors be? Will masonry be a vital part of construction and how can we assist in the future success of our members?" Based on those questions, the Board will develop a continuing strategy to position the Mason Contractors Association of America to "become the recognized global leader with the knowledge and resources to lead the masonry and construction industries."
Some of the key ideas that came from the meeting called for the association to hire a full-time lobbyist based in Washington, D.C. to spearhead MCAA's legislative and political agendas, expand promotional programs such as the association's Architect Symposium held at the Masonry Showcase, and develop a mentoring program for apprentices.
In addition to presenting the new Long Range Strategic Plan, association Vice President William McConnell presented a plan for the association to build a national headquarters building for the MCAA that was approved by the Executive Committee. He informed the members that as plans are developed for the new headquarters, the MCAA has already begun soliciting financial support from the membership to construct the project.
With workforce recruitment of utmost concern, members strategize over how the Association can play a vital role in attracting new masons.
(right to left) MCAA Regional Vice President Ed Boettcher of Boettcher Masonry and Membership Chairman Dick Dentinger of Bill Dentinger, Inc. debate the MCAA's future marketing programs.
(left) Members debate short-term tactics to expand the Association's industry promotional efforts.
MASONRY MAY, 2001 15