The Importance Of Involvement
Dan Kamys, Editor – 
dkamys@staging1.masonrymagazine.com
A lot of times in my Editor’s Notes, I tend to try and keep it relatively light and share a preview of what’s to come in the rest of the issue. Having just stepped off of the plane from this year’s Legislative Fly-In, I felt it was important for me to talk about the benefits of becoming more involved in the industry as a whole.
While it’s wonderful that you read the magazine and may be a very successful contractor on your own, that really isn’t enough. What makes our publication unique is that we’re backed by the Mason Contractors Association of America, and are able to provide you a firsthand look at all the advocacy efforts of the organization. Since coming onboard about two years ago now, I have quickly learned to appreciate and respect the bond between members and hard work that goes into all of the events.
Events like the Legislative Fly-In are all designed to help move the industry forward. We as an organization cannot be happy just because there is a lot of work out there. The challenges like a workforce shortage, misclassification of workers, and combating other (undeniably unsafe) wall types for tall structures are not going to be solved on their own. We need your help.
If you are not a member, I encourage you to join and get involved. Aside from the networking aspects of the association, you get a firsthand look and opportunity to join in our efforts to advocate for the trade. If you are already a member, thank you, and I’d encourage you to take a look at some of the trips and opportunities that you haven’t yet been a part of.
I think I’ll wrap up my impression of a PBS person now and tell you a little bit of what’s in our issue. In our June magazine, you’ll find topics on everything ranging from information on the upcoming SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference to our American Treasurecover story on the Old Red Museum. Additional items of note are some articles on problems with project specs, our first In The Fieldfeature on work wear, and a Blast From The Pastfrom former Chairman Mark Kemp.
As a small side note before I stop talking and let you get on with the rest of the magazine, I did want to reiterate that I hope you got the opportunity to pick up a copy of MASONRY DESIGN and take a look at our first issue. I particularly enjoyed the cover story, an article from esteemed architect Malcolm Holzman, on his journey of material selection.
Like always, please enjoy this issue and don’t hesitate to reach out to anyone here for comments or suggestions!
