Report of the MCAA Workforce Development Committee

Words: Calvin Brodie

Fastest Trowel

Quikrete has stepped up this year and has taken a more active and direct role in the production of the MCAA”s Fastest Trowel competition. We anticipate between 10-12 contestants at this year’s competition and anticipate a fun event. We look forward to the touch that Quikrete will look to add this year and in future years. The MCAA is looking to develop and host a contest in the near future which will focus on the skills of our journeymen and will feature a multiday contest in which seasoned journeymen show the flexibility and talent of the labor associated with our products.

Skills USA

The MCAA continues to support the work of the Skills USA and participate on the Masonry Technical Committee to sponsor and facilitate the national championships in Kansas City each June. The MCAA works with many other industry affiliates to make this program a huge success.

Masonry Skills Challenge

We are pleased to report that the participation for the Skills Challenge Contest is much higher than last. Last year we had 14 participants and this year we have a total of 21. The following is the breakdown of the participant categories: First Year: 7, Second Year: 7, Third Year 7. It is encouraging to see such great levels of participation given the current economic state.

Task Groups

The Workforce Development Committee is looking to form two task groups to address industry related issues. One task group will focus on contests and the second will work on the development of programs that the committee should be developing or working on. The committee is excited to breakdown our tasks to a smaller level and are hopeful this technique will help bring new ideas to the committee. Anyone interested in participating on a task group should contact Sharyl at the MCAA office.
The Hidden Forces That Build America: Arching Action and the Tools We Trust
December 2025

Most people at World of Concrete can identify a CMU block from 50 feet away. Some can even smell Type S mortar curing from across the hall. But mention the phrase “arching action,” and you will see a surprising number of boots shift and eyes drift toward

Shayne Sanders
Technical Talks
Read More
Fireside Foundations: Crafting Holiday Fireplaces That Last All Year
December 2025

The fireplace holds a special place in every home, especially during the holidays. It’s where families gather, stories are shared, and the flicker of firelight creates

Jeff Tew
Technical Talks
Read More
Manufactured Stone Veneer Trends for 2026: What’s Next in Stone & Masonry Aesthetics
December 2025

As design trends evolve, stone and masonry continue to stand at the intersection of artistry, performance, and innovation. For 2026, manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is emerging as one of the most dynamic materials in the exterior and interior design space

Sarah Lograsso
MAP Partner
Read More
Construction Robotics Upgrades to Gold in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program
December 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is delighted to share that Construction Robotics will upgrade their Silver partnership to a Gold partnership in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program.

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