Laying the Groundwork

Words: Robert MelgaardAs summer gets underway, the MCAA Outreach and Education Division is proud to reflect on a season marked by progress, partnership, and promise for the future of masonry. From vibrant expos and strategic planning meetings to national recognition and competition milestones, our collective efforts continue to build momentum—brick by brick.

This April, the team proudly participated in the Leon Works Expo in Tallahassee, Florida, where more than 1,000 students from Leon County and surrounding areas had the opportunity to explore careers in the trades. Partnering with Masonry Inc., the booth featured a hands-on outdoor demo where students could try their hand at laying brick and block. Inside, students engaged with the team to learn about the many pathways available within the masonry field—from project planning and estimating to truck driving, site supervision, and business ownership. The event was a resounding success and a reminder of the excitement and energy that comes from face-to-face engagement with the next generation.

Earlier in the month, the MCAA took part in the Region 2 RAC (Regional Advisory Committee) meeting in Birmingham, Alabama, where industry professionals and educators gathered to exchange ideas, assess regional needs, and strengthen the pipeline between training programs and the workforce. A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the vital need to recruit and retain instructors. As the division continues to grow, it remains committed to supporting both new and veteran instructors with mentoring opportunities, professional development, and targeted outreach.

We’re also thrilled to share that the MCAA was recently selected as a finalist for the Truist Foundation Inspire Awards, recognizing innovative workforce development programs. Our proposed project centers on expanding the pool of qualified masonry instructors by creating alternative pathways into the classroom. By targeting skilled masons nearing retirement, individuals from underrepresented communities, and those with deep field experience, the initiative aims to remove traditional barriers to entry and provide targeted training, mentorship, and credentialing support. This work is essential to sustaining and growing high school masonry programs nationwide. The recognition from Truist affirms the critical role instructors play in the future of the trades—and fuels our mission to invest in those who teach the next generation.

Meanwhile, state-level SkillsUSA masonry competitions have taken place across the country, and state champions have now been named. These students will go on to represent their states at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference this June. Congratulations to each of these exceptional competitors. They represent more than just individual skill—they are the future of the masonry industry. Their dedication, craftsmanship, and potential affirm what we already know: the future is bright.

Finally, as the team expands, a Region 3 Director is expected to be named in the coming weeks. This addition reflects the division’s ongoing commitment to regional outreach and support, and new leadership will help extend the mission further into the Midwest and beyond.

From expos to competitions, advisory meetings to national award recognition, the Outreach and Education Division is growing stronger every month. We’re not just building careers—we’re building a legacy. Thank you to the partners, educators, volunteers, and industry leaders who make this work possible.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue laying the foundation for a resilient and thriving masonry workforce.

Laying the Groundwork

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