Stronger Together: Workforce Growth & Industry Engagement
- Amanda Bedian
- Feb 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 23
Monthly Update
From Dawn Rogers, Executive Director Arizona Masonry Council
As we move through a busy start to the year, I’m proud to share the continued momentum building across Arizona’s masonry community.
Representing Arizona on the National Stage
The Arizona Masonry Council was on the ground at the World of Concrete and MCAA meetings in Las Vegas — connecting with industry leaders, sharing ideas, and cheering on outstanding talent in the Skilled Trades Competition.
We’re especially proud of our Arizona competitors:
● Level 3 – 3rd Place Robert Lopez, Sun Valley Masonry
● Level 1 – 3rd Place Isaac Jasso, Keystone Masonry
Their performance reflects the strength of our contractors, instructors, and apprenticeship programs here in Arizona.
AMC was also represented at the annual conference of the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association in Kansas City, where conversations centered on innovation, standards, and advancing the industry nationwide.
Excellence in Masonry – Jury Review
Our Excellence in Masonry Awards jury met in Houston to carefully review and vote on this year’s submitted projects. The caliber of work continues to impress, highlighting the collaboration between architects, engineers, contractors, and owners who are pushing masonry design forward.
We look forward to celebrating these projects and the teams behind them at the awards event on April 24th. If you are interested in supporting this event with sponsorship, click here for more details - EXCELLENCE SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Engaging the Design Community
I had the opportunity to present as the Designer Spotlight for the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) ASU Student Chapter.
The focus was clear: bridge design and construction. From material performance to constructability, masonry offers designers a system that is both technically sound and design-forward. Conversations like these ensure the next generation of architec
ts understand not just how masonry looks — but how it performs.
Thank you to NOMA ASU for creating space for meaningful dialogue that strengthens the future of the A/E/C community.
Strengthening Workforce Development
On February 7th, AMC proudly celebrated the graduation of our latest apprenticeship class.
Graduation represents more than completing hours — it reflects discipline, craftsmanship, and commitment to the trade. To our graduates: congratulations. You are the future of masonry in Arizona.
A sincere thank you to our instructors, contractors, families, and sponsors who continue to invest in workforce development. Your support makes these programs — and the strength of our industry — possible.
Apprenticeship Programs Kick Off Strong
We’re also excited to have launched both of our 2026 apprenticeship cohorts — and the momentum is undeniable.
This year, the masonry program welcomed the largest first-year incoming class in more than six years — and likely the strongest in close to a decade. That growth is a powerful reflection of contractor commitment, industry collaboration, and renewed interest in the skilled trades.
January 10 – Southern ArizonaOur Southern Arizona class launched with expanded training locations as the program continues to grow.• Lab: Oldcastle• Classroom: Sundt Construction
With sincere thanks to Pima Community College for their support in helping elevate and expand the program.
January 17 – Central ArizonaThe Central Arizona class kicked off at the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) in Mesa, continuing hands-on training for the next generation of masonry professionals.
To our partners, instructors, and apprentices — thank you. We are proud to keep building Arizona’s masonry workforce together.
What’s Ahead
The calendar continues to reflect AMC’s commitment to education, advocacy, and collaboration:
● Speaking at the 2026 Construction Industry Forum hosted by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) in Dallas
● ULI Trends Day – February 20
● Hosting NOMA for an education and competition day at Oldcastle’s Solutions Center, followed by a block tour
● Sponsoring Northern Arizona University students at the Women in Construction Dinner
● Supporting Women in Construction Week in Arizona (March 2–6)
Each initiative reinforces AMC’s mission: to strengthen masonry through workforce development, education, advocacy, and collaboration across the A/E/C community.
Thank you to our members, educators, municipalities, and industry partners for your continued engagement. Together, we are building more than structures — we are building a stronger industry for Arizona.
With appreciation,
Dawn Rogers
Executive Director
Arizona Masonry Council
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