2026 World of Concrete Recap Words: Justin StengelPhotos: MCAAThe 2026 World of Concrete Convention marked another successful year for masonry. From the world-renowned Skills Challenge and Fastest Trowel on the Block competitions to the new innovative GEORGE AI class, we gained a lot of ground in pushing this industry forward this year in Las Vegas.Contractor Round Table & Committee MeetingsThe Contractor Round Table meeting started just as usual, with contractors listing their concerns, questions, and experiences they’ve been troubled with over the past year. This year, the event was structured as a guided series of discussions, allowing for focused dialogue on critical industry issues.Topics covered a wide range of challenges and innovations, including:Cyber risk and securityExperience with The Block Design CollectiveDelegated design in masonry constructionKnowing when to walk awayTalent attraction and retention incentivesFinding better clientsGenerational transition in leadershipBest practices for eliminating "Pay-If-Paid" clausesAI in project estimatingAugmented reality in masonry layout verificationPre-qualification of partnersBIM process improvementsThe Committee Meetings also gave contractors a chance to talk with the MCAA about concerns they have in certain areas on the jobsite or on the business side. From the GEN NXT, to Workforce, to the Safety Committee, there is always a way to get help with specific issues at the Committee Meetings. Legendary Craftsman AwardThe 2026 Legendary Craftsman Award was given to Marvin "Jay" Smith III for his renowned work in the masonry industry. Presented on Wednesday during MASONRY MADNESS, this prestigious award highlights the importance of the trade, with the Brick Industry Association (BIA) heavily involved in recognizing the dedication and skill required to achieve this level of craftsmanship. A huge congratulations goes out to Marvin for winning this award. C. DeWitt Brown Leadman Award This year, the MCAA’s President, Jeff Buczkiewicz, was presented with the C. DeWitt Brown Leadman Award for his involvement and innovative efforts in this industry. Each year, the MCAA presents this award to an individual who has provided exemplary leadership in advancing the masonry industry. All of the individuals who have received this prestigious award have demonstrated a tireless dedication to our industry through years of volunteer support and hard work. Impact AwardThis year, a brand new and very special award was given out during the MCAA meetings. With his episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast totaling over 150,000 views of his episode alone, James Hoskinson was given the first-ever “Impact Award”.A big thank you goes out to the designer of the Impact Award, @3dprintedartuk.GEN NXT Party at Atomic GolfOur annual GEN NXT party took place at Atomic Golf once again this year, and it was a great time for everyone. Well over 300 people attended the event. Our Masonry Alliance Program partners got to network with many of our Mason Contractor members at their designated golf bays, and everyone is eager to see where we hold our party next year. Skills Challenge CompetitionThis year’s Skill Challenge had the most competitors to date. With over 75 mason apprentices, the competition was fiercer than ever. Here’s a look at the First, Second, and Third place winners of all Skills Challenge Competition Levels:First Year:1st Place: Adrianna Maziarz, Pumford Construction - Midland, MI2nd Place: Luis Sontay, Adams Masonry - Chattanooga, TN3rd Place: Isaac Jasso, AZ Keystone Masonry - Tucson, AZSecond Year:1st Place: David Hernández Herrera, Whitman Mansonry - Raleigh, NC2nd Place: Mason Perez, Mason Contractors Association of Western Pennsylvania - Greensburg, PA3rd Place: Mason Panko, Leidal & Hart Mason Contractors - Bay City, MIThird Year:1st Place: Samuel Berryman, The Witmer Group - Fleetwood, PA2nd Place: Jesse Biller, Mason Contractors Association of Western Pennsylvania - Greensburg, PA3rd Place: Robert Lopez, Sun Valley Masonry - Tucson, AZ Fastest Trowel on the BlockThe most intense 20 minutes in masonry take place during the Fastest Trowel on the Block competition. This year, there were plenty of familiar faces, as well as some newcomers, competing for the prize. Here are the First, Second, and Third place winners, along with their Tenders:1st Place: Roberto Cimental (Tender: Mark Diaz) - JG Block Co - Phoenix AZ2nd Place: Noe Martinez (Tender: Jonathan Martinez) - Stone Cold Masonry - Phoenix AZ3rd Place: Gerardo Patlan (Tender: Robert Patlan) - Vulcan Fence - Phoenix AZ About: Industry News
