Masonry Magazine August 2006 Page. 49

Words: Edwin Stevens
Masonry Magazine August 2006 Page. 49

Masonry Magazine August 2006 Page. 49
Health in Construction

Health in Construction is charged with developing an alternate ASTM silica standard for construction. Since the MCAA is serving as chair of this new subcommittee, we believe that we will be influential in establishing an agreeable standard.

Codes and Standards

MCAA is continuing to influence codes and standards in the best interest of mason contractors. Johnson has recently been elected to serve on ASTM C12 and C15 executive committee. His role on these two committees will enable him to monitor and impact every ASTM standard pertaining to our industry.

2007 Showcase & Convention in Orlando

The 2007 Masonry Showcase and MCAA convention will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Feb. 23-24. There will be several significant changes from previous conventions. The tradeshow has been cut from three days to two days, and the exhibit floor will be open during morning hours, which will facilitate attendees' desires to participate in Orlando area activities during the afternoon and evening.

As educational programs have always been a highlight at past conventions, plans are being made to bolster educational offerings, including reintroducing a revamped Masonry Quality Institute (MQI), which is a total quality management type seminar that was conducted by the MCAA and NCMA roughly eight years ago. Also, MQI will be a cornerstone in the Association's developing certification program.

Probably the most exciting change for the 2007 convention is the fact that the MCAA convention will be at the Orange County Convention Center at the same time as NCMA's convention.

We have held discussions with NCMA on conducting a joint Masonry Night at an Orlando theme park. Plans are being made to rent either a Universal or Disney park for closing activities on Saturday, Feb. 24.

While our tradeshows are not merged at this time, dialogue continues between the MCAA and NCMA regarding the future of both shows.

Workforce Development Activities

The MCAA held meetings with representatives from the BIA, BSI, NCMA and the Bricklayers Union to discuss how our groups can work cooperatively to develop our future labor force. A September meeting is planned to review potential programs that will be jointly supported.

The MCAA Workforce Development Committee is seeking funds to continue the High School Career Initiative, and to provide career information to schools.

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