MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 18 Recap: Jeff Tew, Westlake Royal Stone Solutions

Words: Justin Stengel

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Jeff Tew joins the show, along with MCAA President Jeff Buczkiewicz, to talk about where his passion for this industry started and what it's been like working on the Supplier side of the industry.

An Exciting Meeting in Utah

The podcast kicks off with a casual conversation about Jeff’s journey from Dayton, Ohio, to Utah. He appreciates the beautiful scenery, highlighting the vast differences in climate and elevation. This conversation sets a friendly and relatable tone, establishing a welcoming atmosphere.

Westlake and MCAA Partnership

Westlake has seized the opportunity to partner with the MCAA through their Masonry Alliance program. This collaboration offers Westlake numerous platforms to showcase their premium brands like Eldorado Stone and Cultured Stone. It's a partnership that enhances interactions with the lifeblood of their operations—the contractors.

Introducing the Certified Installer Program

Jeff introduces the Certified Installer Program, addressing the industry's challenge of standardizing installation practices. The program seeks to ensure a consistent and high-level installation process, moving beyond the “wild, wild west” of fluctuating methods.

Key Aspects of the Program

  • Experience Requirement: Installers need at least five years of experience and must have completed a specific number of installations.

  • Comprehensive Testing: A rigorous 100-question test ensures installers understand the necessary practices without assistance from notes or phones.

  • Training Opportunities: A two-day training course helps bridge the gap for less experienced workers, focusing on foundational skills through hands-on learning.

Bridging the Skill Gap

The program is crafted to cater not only to seasoned professionals but also to newcomers to the trade. It offers:

  • A hands-on approach: Mistakes in practice lead to learning opportunities, thereby ensuring thorough comprehension.

  • Flexibility for Newcomers: Newcomers can engage without previous experience, making the field more accessible.

The Importance of Masonry in Construction

One of the program's benefits includes enhanced field visits. By visiting job sites and understanding ongoing masonry projects, Westlake reinforces its commitment to making masonry the preferred choice in construction.

The Mechanics of Masonry

The episode delves into the nitty-gritty of masonry work. Codes and standards are continually evolving, driven by organizations like the Masonry Society.

Challenges in Recruitment and Training

Finding and training the next generation of masons remains a pressing concern. Westlake's commitment to education is evident through its outreach to high schools and job training centers, promoting the benefits and opportunities within the trade.

Promoting Masonry as a Lucrative Career

With minimal initial investment, young aspirants are encouraged to consider masonry. The goal is to cultivate passion and sustain interest in this essential craft.

The Heart of Masonry: Community and Craft

For Jeff and his team, masonry goes beyond construction. It's a community effort, often seeing masons volunteering for projects that help strengthen their local area.

___________

Tune in to listen to the MASONRY STRONG Podcast every other Thursday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.


About: Featured
 0
Mast Climbing Work Platform Check List – Significant Seven
May 2025

Many MCAA members and Mast Climbing Work Platform equipment owners have been asking for a copy of a presentation completed by Hydro Mobile at Mid-Year 2022. The basis of the presentation is for owners and users of Mast Climbing Work Platforms to establish

Eric Johnson Rob Faro
Featured MAP Partner
General Education Residential Restoration
Read More
Youth Outreach and Education Arm Attends the Leon Works Career Fair
May 2025

On Friday, April 25, the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) participated in the Leon Works Expo in Tallahassee, FL, reaching over 1,000 high school students from Leon County and surrounding areas. In collaboration with local contractor Masonr

Conner Birdsong
Read More
Work Trucks Need Hard-working Tires
May 2025

Whatever you’re hauling, whatever job site you’re headed to, your work truck needs to be dependable. It’s a vital part of your livelihood. That’s why it’s important to check what holds your work truck up, namely the tires. Simply put, the right tires (alo

Eric Johnson William Groak
Featured
Block General Education Natural Stone Residential Restoration
Read More
Youth Outreach and Education Arm Attends the 2025 Florida SkillsUSA Competition
May 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), in partnership with Florida Masonry Inc., proudly participated in the 2025 Florida SkillsUSA competition. This year’s masonry contest featured seven skilled student competitors and drew significant atte

Conner Birdsong
Featured
Read More