A Fond Farewell: Chairman’s Message

Words: Paul Odom

Paul Odom, MCAA Chairman

As I sit to write this very last Chairman’s Message, it’s New Year’s Eve and so many things run through my mind.  First and foremost, the end is near, and it’s been a fun (and busy) eight years.  For those of you who don’t know, as a board member, you start as Secretary, then move on to Treasurer, Vice Chairman, and Chairman.  Each of these seats is a two-year term.  I know it’s not technically over for me since past-Chairmen may serve as the chair of the Masonry Foundation.  It’s a ten-year commitment, but one that builds some of the best friendships you’ll ever make!  There are so many ways to get involved with MCAA and make a difference in our industry, while building these priceless relationships.  Reach out to me, the MCAA staff, committee chairs, or any of the board members to find out how you can get started on a committee.  Speaking of relationships, I’d like to thank the many, many friends that have made my term enjoyable and productive.  The past chairmen before me (and their wives) have been amazing to work with and kept Susie and I laughing and constantly on the go.  My current board consists of: Secretary Dick Dentinger, Treasurer Larry Vacala, and Vice Chairman Paul Oldham (I know- his name is close to my name so it will be an easy transition).  These guys have all been fantastic and I know each of them are going to do great as they advance to the next position in line.    Susie and I laughingly refer to Paul Oldham as “son”.  Because of his name and youth, someone in the early years referred to him as our son.  We’ve called him son since then!!  We’ve gotten to know him well enough to be his pseudo parents over the years.  For those of you who don’t know him, let me take a moment to tell you a few things about Paul: 
  • Paul is president of Ollier Masonry, located in Batesville, Indiana.   
  • He is one of the founding members of the South of 40 Committee and, although he’s now just barely over 40, he’s continued to be an active participant and has helped bring in “new blood” to MCAA.  He is one of the youngest Chairman we’ve had in office. 
  • He is married to a wonderful wife, who I think does a pretty good job keeping him in line.  Lisa is busy also serving as the Director of Rehabilitation Services in a hospital.   
  • They have three very active children- a daughter and two sons- that keep them busy.  
After the 2020 World of Concrete, my term will be over, and you will be in VERY good hands with Paul at the lead.  He’s got the energy and youth the industry needs to continue working on major issues like gaining market share back, workforce development and recruitment, OSHA and safety issues, and government/legislative issues.  He will be backed by a wonderful MCAA staff.  They’re truly a great team and, in combination with Paul and the rest of the board, I see a great future ahead for MCAA.    It’s been an exciting road, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for MCAA and for our industry in the coming years.  I especially thank Jeff and the MCAA staff for their patience and help with me over the past two years.  Thanks to all of you as members for your support.  God bless you all!  Happy New Year.  May 2020 be the best for you and yours!  MCAA Past-Chairman,   Paul Odom  
About: Chairman’s Message
Five Truths About Final Brick Cleandown
May 2026

Not all truths are self-evident. Sometimes they’re easy to forget or clouded with misunderstanding. The good news is these truths of final cleandown are not hard to implement on your next project to ensure successfully cleaned and beautiful new brick.

Jake Boyer
MAP Partner
Read More
Shelf Angles and Their Impact on Wall Performance
May 2026

Shelf angles have long been a standard component in masonry construction. Installed at the slab edge, they provide support for brick veneer and are often treated as a routine detail. However, as building performance requirements evolve, particularly aroun

Erica Oliveraz
MAP Partner
Read More
The Mason’s Mark: Defining the Craft Through the Trowel
May 2026

Walk onto any job site, from a custom residential chimney to a sprawling commercial block wall, and you will hear it before you see it: the distinctive ring of high-carbon steel striking masonry. The trowel is more than just a mortar scoop; it is the cond

Mark Maleski
Technical Talks
Read More
Registration Now Open for the 2026 MCAA Midyear Meeting in San Antonio, Texas
May 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for the highly anticipated 2026 MCAA Midyear Meeting, set to take place in San Antonio, Texas. This exciting event is scheduled from September 13th-1

Industry News
Read More
Interested in working with us? Learn about and join the Masonry Alliance Program →