Owen Heimbach Words: Justin StengelPhotos: Owen HeimbachThis month, the MCAA had the pleasure of speaking with SkillsUSA First Place Winner Owen Heimbach, a young mason just starting out whose enthusiasm for bricklaying is truly contagious. His passion for the craft was evident throughout our interview.Owen discusses how a hands-on school elective provided an alternative to traditional classroom learning and sparked his initial passion for masonry.MCAA: How did your journey in the masonry industry begin?Owen Heimbach: It began when I started going to school, because I knew sitting in a classroom wasn't for me. So, I got the opportunity to go into a class for masonry, and when I got there, I fell in love with it. It’s something I’m very thankful that my school offered.A look into the immediate visual progress and highly rewarding nature of watching a physical project come to fruition through hard work is what convinced Owen to join the industry.MCAA: What is it about masonry that attracted you to it?Owen Heimbach: With it being so rewarding, as that you build, and you can actually see right away as to what's coming along and what you're gonna do. The rewarding aspect of it, and kind of seeing a project that you've worked on for hours and hours come to fruition.Owen reflects on his favorite aspects of the trade, specifically highlighting the unique opportunities and industry competitions he has been able to participate in.MCAA: What has been your favorite part about being a mason?Owen Heimbach: My favorite part is the opportunities that it's given me. Throughout all the time I've done it, with the competitions, and just being able to see what's coming along in my projects and everything the industry has to offer. A breakdown of what elevates a mason to the next level, emphasizing that teamwork, crew dynamics, and collaboration are just as important as individual skill.MCAA: From the experience you have so far, what do you think separates a good mason from a great mason?Owen Heimbach: Being able to work together and work well with your crew is something that separates good masons from great ones. You have to be able to work with the rest of everybody, cause you ain't gonna be able to build something alone. That’s what it’s all about.Insights into the preparation behind Owen's first-place win, focusing on the importance of consistency, dedication, and staying true to foundational techniques.MCAA: How did you prepare for the SkillsUSA competition, and how did it feel when all of the hard work paid off and you won first place?Owen Heimbach: The preparation was just being consistent and dedicated to what you're doing and your craft. Staying true to the techniques you’ve learned. And it's just, it's nice to see what it can become after being dedicated, and working hard for what you want.Owen outlines his long-term career goals, which include gaining 5 to 10 years of experience at Zook Masonry before eventually launching his own business.MCAA: What are your plans for the future?Owen Heimbach: Well, right now, I'm working for Zook Masonry and I love it, but I'd like to probably work for them for about 5-10 years, and then hopefully start a business of my own in this industry, whatever that might entail. I definitely want to continue a career in masonry.Words of encouragement for those considering the trade, highlighting the hands-on rewards, abundant knowledge, and great opportunities the industry has to offer.MCAA: What would you say to someone who is on the fence about joining the masonry industry?Owen Heimbach: I would tell them to join it, because it comes with great opportunities and so much knowledge. Being able to work with your hands and you see things that you would never see before doing it. It’s such rewarding work.About: GEN NXT
