County Materials sponsored two busloads of high school students from Wausau West, Wausau East, DC Everest and Marathon high schools, totaling nearly 100 students to travel to the 15th Annual SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® Wisconsin Regional Competition hosted by Miron Construction. The event was held at a Miron Construction facility in Menasha, WI on September 27, 2018. The field trip offered students the opportunity to observe the masonry trade first hand, visit with the many vendors in attendance, and try their own hand at constructing a masonry wall.
The SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® competitions are a series of events that bring statewide masons together to compete for prizes and the honor of being the “Best Bricklayer in the World.” The competition features 2-man teams, consisting of a mason and their mason tender, to determine who can lay the most brick in 60 minutes. Awards are also given to teams who are judged to have the best craftsmanship. Winners of the regional events are invited to the National Competition held every year in Las Vegas.
In recent years, fewer young people have entered the masonry trade creating a shortage of skilled masons. County Materials’ sponsorship raises awareness for students who are beginning to think about future career opportunities in construction, and provides students the opportunity to meet people who are making their career in masonry construction. Students who competed in the student event were randomly paired with a mason who was part of the main competition. The mason mentors advised and instructed competing students on techniques and strategies of masonry.
County Materials’ sponsorship for the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® Wisconsin Regional Competition is one example of the company’s commitment to raising awareness about careers in manufacturing and construction fields.