Masonry Magazine April 2002 Page. 19
MCAA Masonry
Showcase 2002
Phoenix, Arizona
February 6-9, 2002
by Rachel Young, CMP,
Director of Meetings and Conventions,
MCAA
The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) Annual Conference and the Masonry Showcase Exhibition were held in Phoenix, Arizona, February 6-9. Once again the Masonry Showcase placed a national spotlight on masonry as thousands of professionals united in support of the masonry industry.
While the MCAA was preparing for the 2002 Masonry Showcase, every effort was made to provide value for the individual attendee as well as the Industry. The focus was shifted from the traditional goal of bringing customers and suppliers together for business transactions, to a more specific goal of addressing industry issues and creating opportunities for all participants. Bill McConnell, who then was MCAA's Convention Chairman and Vice President, stated, "The Masonry Showcase's steadfast reputation for quality attendance was apparent in Phoenix. To have such a showing in light of the overall economy is testament to the support behind the Showcase."
One of the more visible changes was the addition of many local & state masonry associations from around the Country. Nearly 50 individual groups held official meetings at the Masonry Showcase. Additionally, association Presidents and Directors from 30 Organizations met to identify and address industry issues at the first Annual Masonry Summit Meeting. Plans are already underway to expand participation for next year.
The Showcase is composed of three main areas: Education, Exhibits and Networking. Pettit Construction's David Hill describes his experience at the Masonry Showcase, "I use the Showcase as a tool for my business. Education is essential. Each year I learn something new at one of the educational seminars. I also like to touch base with suppliers and find out what new products are on the market. Additionally, the networking is unbelievable. I have literally saved months of time by utilizing the Contacts I have made when dealing with new or difficult contracts."
Masonry Showcase Highlights
Education
This year the educational program was expanded to go more in depth with a deeper focus on the essentials. Over thirty seminars were offered in six concentrated tracks to educate all masonry professionals including dealers and distributors. Ed Boettcher of Edgar Boettcher Mason Contractor, Inc. stated, "I've learned a few valuable tips I can implement as soon as I get back. I'm impressed."
Fastest Trowel
Once again the Fastest Trowel on the Block Competition, Sponsored by Spec Mix, was an amazing display of craftsmanship and skill. Sixteen contestants from around the country, including many past national award winners and seven regional competition winners, competed for a cash award of $5,000 and an array of prizes. The crowds were deafening as the contestants ran on adrenaline alone at the end of the twenty-minute heat.
This contest continues to showcase the skill of a journeyman mason and how important teamwork is in accomplishing a final product. The twenty-four foot walls are judged objectively in six categories, and technique is solely the journeymen's preference.
Nine contestants returned from the 2001 competition ready to compete. Contestant Mike Magee's comment covered everyone's anticipation, "I have been thinking about this all year, I know what I have to do today." With the winning scores only 0.56 of a point apart, the competition was close all around!
The MCAA would like to thank the following contributing sponsors: Sterling Handling Equipment, MK Diamond, Partner Industrial, Marshalltown Trowel, National Lime Institute, Tovel, Crick Tools, Multiquip, Bon Tool and Superlite Block.
Winner Rudolfo Ramirez, concentration and keen skills award him $5,000
MASONRY APRIL, 2002 19