The National Center for Construction Education and Research announced its partnership with the Mason Contractors Association of America to adapt NCCER’s current industry-standardized curricula, and assessments to create a jointly-endorsed masonry training and certification program. The long-term goal of the partnership is to advance masonry workforce development nationally and to utilize the expertise of both organizations to develop and deliver comprehensive masonry training throughout North America and the world.

“NCCER is excited to be working closely with MCAA to enhance the competency of masonry craft professionals,” said NCCER president Don Whyte. “Our shared long-term goal of building a masonry craft workforce with portable credentials makes MCAA an ideal strategic partner.”

NCCER and MCAA will also work together to promote masonry training at secondary and post-secondary education levels that meet industry standards, ensuring seamless articulation between Secondary Career and Technical Education programs and Post-secondary Technical College programs.

“The MCAA is extremely pleased to be partnering with NCCER. While our priority is establishing effective apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs around the country, the impact this new alliance will have on all our industry training is very exciting,” said Jeff Buczkiewicz, president and CEO of MCAA. “Tapping into NCCER's current list of training sponsors and growing it will give our industry opportunities we have not seen before.”