As the Region 2 Director for Youth Outreach and Education at the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), my focus centers on strengthening our industry’s future by investing in education, mentorship, and strategic workforce initiatives. The vital

Spring is in the air, and summer is right around the corner. With that in mind, it’s time for all of us in the masonry industry to start preparing for warmer weather. It is very important that we consider the risks associated with working in the summer he

The masonry industry plays a vital role in constructing our homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Yet, beneath the enduring beauty of brick and stone lies a complex and often hazardous work environment. Ensuring the safety of workers and maintaining docu

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 Excitin

For you long time members of the Mason Contractors Association of America you likely remember our Annual Washington, D.C. Fly-In where MCAA members from around the country would come to Washington, D.C. meeting with Members of Congress from their home sta

I bet scheduling crews and dealing with people drives you crazy and keeps you up at night. When I speak at conventions, I often ask construction business owners and managers to tell me what their perfect business would be like. The common answer is a comp

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is proud to announce the formation of its new Outreach & Education Division, a strategic initiative designed to revitalize high school masonry training programs and cultivate the next generation of skill

The world of masonry is evolving with the implementation of new technologies. These advancements are reshaping how this craft is taught, learned, and executed by merging traditional techniques with modern innovation to develop skilled masons prepared to m

In February, the masonry industry was struck with the news of the passing of Fred Mason Jr, a well renowned masonry instructor at Columbus Career & College Academy and a person loved by everyone around him. Referred to by many as a top-tier instructor, Fr

Every employer should strive to maintain a good OSHA record. Not only are customers, insurers, and others increasingly scrutinizing employers’ OSHA records as a condition of doing business, but OSHA penalties and citations can be substantial—over $165,000

Being a contractor is hard as there are lots of moving parts out of your control. On every job there are over 5,762 chances to make a mistake, miss a schedule, or tick off customers. Things aren’t perfect including plans, specifications, field conditions,

When a masonry jobsite is running smoothly, it’s a beautiful and inspiring demonstration of efficiency. Work flows without interruption, confusion, or hint of a delay. Each mason gets into a groove with zero waste of energy or muscle movement. Mortar i

This year, Mark Sisto was given the esteemed Masonry Wall of Fame award. For Mark, this accolade is an acknowledgement to years of dedication, hard work, and passion for the masonry industry. Sisto shares what this recognition means to him both personally

NETWORKING It’s not just who you know, it’s who they know. Build deep industry relationships with the most connected professionals across the nation. CREDIBILITY Demonstrate your company’s commitment to excellence in craftsmanship, ability to stay up

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Foreman Instructors Donnie Williams, Jameel Ervin, and Tom Vacala join Justin in talking about the changes in masonry education over the years, how they all became good friends, and some of their favorite sto

Masonry contractors face many challenges in their day-to-day work, including the need to ensure general maintenance and housekeeping are being kept up at your business. As an owner and leader, it’s your responsibility to prioritize safety by promoting cle