Concrete Masonry Checkoff Enlists Irene Li to Spearhead West Coast Design Support



The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is pleased to share that the Concrete Masonry Checkoff (CMC) has announced the appointment of Irene Li, a distinguished structural engineer, to its innovative Block Design Collective (BDC). This virtual platform provides complimentary CMU design services tailored for architects, engineers, and contractors.

“Irene’s deep background in new design, forensics and existing structural rehabilitation is a key addition to our efforts in a region impacted by an increasing number of natural disasters in recent years,” said Kim Spahn, CEO, Concrete Masonry Checkoff.

In her new role, Li will lead as the technical director for the West Region (Region 5), a territory facing unique challenges due to climate change, seismic activities, and wildfires. She expressed her admiration for the CMC's forward-thinking approach, noting, "It’s an opportunity to influence and drive changes all across the AEC industry, and be a strategic partner with architects, engineers and contractors in how we envision a future infrastructure within the U.S.”

Originally from the Chicago area, Li holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Cornell University and a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering and Geomechanics from Stanford University. Her career choice was greatly inspired by Chicago's architectural legacy and resilience, especially its remarkable recovery post-Chicago Fire.

Li joins a dynamic team of Regional Technical Directors, all supported by a network of designers and architects with deep masonry experience. Together, they share a commitment to innovative problem-solving, collaboration, and delivering timely project support.

 

____

ABOUT THE CONCRETE MASONRY CHECKOFF
The Concrete Masonry Checkoff (CMC) is an industry-funded initiative to support education, research and promotion of manufactured concrete masonry units in the United States. The Concrete Checkoff Program is the first-ever Checkoff Program at the Department of Commerce. For more information, visit https://www.concretemasonrycheckoff.org/.


About: Industry News
Masonry in the Media: Orava Castle, St. Anne’s Church, & More
October 2025

With Halloween quickly approaching, it’s time to visit some extra spooky masonry-built structures from some classic chilling and creepy TV shows and films. From haunting stone mansions to imposing cliffside castles, these four locations create an eerie at

Lily Burger
Masonry in the Media
Read More
Contractor Tip of the Month: Principles That Define Leadership
October 2025

The Standard Beyond Profit and Growth A successful leader can drive profit margins and growth that look strong on paper, but numbers alone do not define leadership. The true measure lies in the principles you refuse to compromise when the pressure is gre

Damian Lang
Contractor Tip of the Month
Read More
Chairman's Message: TALENTED NEXT GENERATION SPARKS ENERGY AND GROWTH
October 2025

A common need in any venture is the importance of staying open to new strategies, ideas, or risks, as there is a tendency to get too comfortable with the status quo. We witness how an industry or entity is most successful if it makes efforts to keep ope

Dick Dentinger
Chairman’s Message
Read More
Vibing Masonry #9 - The History of Milwaukee's Third Ward: A Haven for Ornate Brick Masonry
October 2025

Living near Chicago, one of my family’s favorite day trips is to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a one-hour drive north. Among our other activities, including visiting the Calatrava-designed Milwaukee Art Museum, kayaking the river, and enjoying traditional German

Steve Blye
Technical Talks
Read More