SCHEDULED MEETINGS
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Budget & Finance Committee
September 23, 2026 9:45 a.m. |
Board of Directors
September 23, 2026 10:00 a.m. |
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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Florida Concrete MagazineFlorida Concrete & Products Association Relaunch
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A Defining Moment for a Foundational Industry!
This relaunch of Florida Concrete Magazine is more than a return-it is a re-introduction. A commitment to tell a broader, more compelling story about who we are as an industry and what we represent. Yes, we will continue to provide technical insights, industry updates, and product innovations. But equally important, we will focus on the larger narrative: how concrete contributes to stronger communities, safer structures, and a more sustainable future.
In this issue, you will see that focus come to life. We explore innovations shaping the next generation of concrete products. We take a clear-eyed look at resiliency and why durability and performance are no longer optional, but essential. We address sustainability head-on, separating perception from reality and highlighting the long-term environmental advantages of building with concrete. We will examine both commercial and residential applications, where the decisions being made today will define performance for decades to come.
Readers can learn more about the Florida Concrete & Products Association at: fcpa.org and access the inaugural issue of Florida Concrete Magazine at floridaconcretemagazine.com.
This relaunch of Florida Concrete Magazine is more than a return-it is a re-introduction. A commitment to tell a broader, more compelling story about who we are as an industry and what we represent. Yes, we will continue to provide technical insights, industry updates, and product innovations. But equally important, we will focus on the larger narrative: how concrete contributes to stronger communities, safer structures, and a more sustainable future.
In this issue, you will see that focus come to life. We explore innovations shaping the next generation of concrete products. We take a clear-eyed look at resiliency and why durability and performance are no longer optional, but essential. We address sustainability head-on, separating perception from reality and highlighting the long-term environmental advantages of building with concrete. We will examine both commercial and residential applications, where the decisions being made today will define performance for decades to come.
Readers can learn more about the Florida Concrete & Products Association at: fcpa.org and access the inaugural issue of Florida Concrete Magazine at floridaconcretemagazine.com.
FLORIDA MASONRY ANNUAL CONVENTION
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Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Thirteen to the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council |
September 4, 2026 -- News Release by Staff
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Mark Arbuckle, Arnold Capote, Josh Hutchinson, James “Jamie” Johnson, Treavor Kuipers, Bob Marion, Jason Morin, Lisa Pelham and Kyle Phelps and the reappointment of David Cerniglia, Shawn McGee, Robert Melgaard and Jerry Painter to the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Mark Arbuckle, Arnold Capote, Josh Hutchinson, James “Jamie” Johnson, Treavor Kuipers, Bob Marion, Jason Morin, Lisa Pelham and Kyle Phelps and the reappointment of David Cerniglia, Shawn McGee, Robert Melgaard and Jerry Painter to the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council.
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Jason Morin - Morin is the President of the Florida Chapter of Titan America. Previously, he served as a Principal at Rearden Advisors, the Chief Executive Officer of Black Mountain Sand, and the Executive Vice President of Operations and Northern Sales for Continental Cement. A veteran of the United States Army, Morin earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering and management from Clarkson University and master’s degree in business administration from Missouri State University.
Lisa Pelham - Pelham is a Sales and Specifications Manager at Oldcastle APG. Active in her community, she has served as the Chair of the Masonry Association of Florida and the Masonry and Contractors Association of Florida Tampa Bay Chapter. Pelham earned her bachelor’s degree in business from South University. Kyle Phelps - Phelps is a Sales Manager for Quality Block & Supply. Active in his community, he is the Vice President of the Florida Independent Concrete and Products Association and a member of the Florida Masonry Association. Phelps earned his bachelor’s degree in business from Lyon College and his master’s degree in business from Oklahoma Wesleyan University. David Cerniglia - Cerniglia is the Vice President and General Manager of the South Concrete Division of Preferred Materials. Active in his community, he has served as the Chair of the Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Education Foundation and is a member of the Masonry Association of Florida Board of Directors. Cerniglia earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Pennsylvania State University. Shawn McGee - McGee is the Owner and President of Oceanside Masonry. He is a Certified General Contractor with the State of Florida. A Certified Green Builder by Green Advantage, McGee has been a resident of Palm Beach County for over 30 years. Robert Melgaard - Melgaard is the National Director of Outreach and Education at the Masonry Contractors Association of America. He is a member of the Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Education Foundation. Melgaard attended Florida Gateway College. |
PROGRAMS & PROGRESS
With funding provided by the FCMEC, the Florida Concrete & Products Association has launched an exciting new resource: BlockStrong.com. The site's educational tools include sample floor plans, details on the various benefits of concrete, and a database of preferred builders--to name a few.
The site can be reached by clicking the image, or by visiting: www.blockstrong.com
BENEFITS OF CONCRETE BLOCK
FLORIDA HIRES
Helping Inmates Realize Employment Success
Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (FCMEC) continues to promote Florida Hires (Florida Ready to Work) and Fleet Force (an independent CDL training organization) in their efforts of helping Inmates Realize Employment Success – CDL licensing for soon-to-be ex-offenders; job placement. FCMEC encourages companies within the concrete masonry industry to provide employment opportunities to these licensed CDL drivers.
Florida HIRES is a pre-release career readiness pathway to post-release employment for returning citizens. Powered by the state-sponsored Florida Ready to Work program, Florida HIRES is a partnership between CareerSource Florida and the Florida Department of Corrections (FDC). Florida HIRES collaboratively has developed and implemented an enhanced employability and technical training program for incarcerated individuals within 180 days of release.
The Florida HIRES partnership has provided pre-release career readiness training to more than 350 incarcerated individuals since August 2019. Florida HIRES has provided opportunities for these individuals to earn credentials in commercial truck driving, construction, heavy equipment operation, electrical, advanced manufacturing, warehousing and logistics, and customer service / hospitality.
In addition to in-demand technical skills training, participants receive intensive employability skills training and earn the Florida Soft Skills Credential, a stackable credential validating mastery of the communication, professionalism, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving skills most in-demand by Florida employers.
The Florida HIRES partnership has provided pre-release career readiness training to more than 350 incarcerated individuals since August 2019. Florida HIRES has provided opportunities for these individuals to earn credentials in commercial truck driving, construction, heavy equipment operation, electrical, advanced manufacturing, warehousing and logistics, and customer service / hospitality.
In addition to in-demand technical skills training, participants receive intensive employability skills training and earn the Florida Soft Skills Credential, a stackable credential validating mastery of the communication, professionalism, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving skills most in-demand by Florida employers.
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Florida Masonry Apprentice & Educational Foundation
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The FMAEF is an Accredited Training Sponsor (ATS) for NCCER and sponsors over 100 high school and post-secondary programs along with programs in Juvenile Justice, Youth Build, Department of Corrections, and other re-entry programs.
Synergy School of Tommorrow
Spotlight
Florida Masonry Apprentice and Educational Foundation and the Synergy School of Tomorrow
The Synergy School of Tomorrow offers high quality, custom core courses both online and in person and focuses classroom education on 21st Century Skills. Accredited courses are aligned with state standards, and prepare students for post-secondary education and training, while the apprenticeship program gives students everything, they need to go directly into the job market.
The Synergy School of Tomorrow offers high quality, custom core courses both online and in person and focuses classroom education on 21st Century Skills. Accredited courses are aligned with state standards, and prepare students for post-secondary education and training, while the apprenticeship program gives students everything, they need to go directly into the job market.
North Showcase 2022 |
South Competition 2022 |
Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council
Contributes to
NCCER’S Release of Additional Levels of Masonry Curriculum On-line
NEWS RELEASE
01/12/2022
Press ReleaseALACHUA, Fla. --
NCCER recently released additional levels of its Masonry curriculum online, developed in conjunction with the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (FCMEC). Available on NCCERconnect, the digital Masonry Levels 1 - 3 include brand new videos, interactive animated figures, flash cards and quizzes.
“With the increased emphasis on virtual learning over the course of the last year, releasing Masonry on NCCERconnect helps to shift perceptions of the craft,” said Darryl Fales, chairman of FCMEC’s Board of Directors. “It illustrates the technology elements of masonry and the upward mobility available in the industry.”
The NCCERconnect eBook includes digital animations that help make difficult material easier for students to learn. Instructors can also take advantage of this resource by utilizing the classroom management tools to instruct their students more efficiently. The course materials are pre-loaded and ready for student use, but instructors can organize these materials to suit the needs of their classroom.
“This digital curriculum is key to expanding the opportunities high schools have to add masonry to their curricula,” said Jim Painter, executive director of FCMEC. “With masonry being in high demand, it’s critical to get more people interested in the craft, and this opens the door for smaller communities, contractors and schools to offer training programs.”...
01/12/2022
Press ReleaseALACHUA, Fla. --
NCCER recently released additional levels of its Masonry curriculum online, developed in conjunction with the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (FCMEC). Available on NCCERconnect, the digital Masonry Levels 1 - 3 include brand new videos, interactive animated figures, flash cards and quizzes.
“With the increased emphasis on virtual learning over the course of the last year, releasing Masonry on NCCERconnect helps to shift perceptions of the craft,” said Darryl Fales, chairman of FCMEC’s Board of Directors. “It illustrates the technology elements of masonry and the upward mobility available in the industry.”
The NCCERconnect eBook includes digital animations that help make difficult material easier for students to learn. Instructors can also take advantage of this resource by utilizing the classroom management tools to instruct their students more efficiently. The course materials are pre-loaded and ready for student use, but instructors can organize these materials to suit the needs of their classroom.
“This digital curriculum is key to expanding the opportunities high schools have to add masonry to their curricula,” said Jim Painter, executive director of FCMEC. “With masonry being in high demand, it’s critical to get more people interested in the craft, and this opens the door for smaller communities, contractors and schools to offer training programs.”...
Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council
Contributes to
NCCER’S Online Masonry Curriculum
NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release Contact: Christina Catron
04.27.2021
888.622.3720 x 6909
[email protected]
Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council Contributes to NCCER’s Online Masonry Curriculum
ALACHUA, Fla. — NCCER recently released its Masonry curriculum online, developed in conjunction with the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (FCMEC). Available on NCCERconnect, the digital Masonry Level 1 includes brand new videos, interactive animated figures, flash cards and quizzes.
“With the increased emphasis on virtual learning over the course of the last year, releasing Masonry on NCCERconnect helps to shift perceptions of the craft,” said Darryl Fales, chairman of FCMEC’s Board of Directors. “It illustrates the technology elements of masonry and the upward mobility available in the industry.”
The NCCERconnect eBook includes digital animations that help make difficult material easier for students to learn. Instructors can also take advantage of this resource by utilizing the classroom management tools to instruct their students more efficiently. The course materials are pre-loaded and ready for student use, but instructors can organize these materials to suit the needs of their classroom...
Exoskeletons for Bricklayers
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Exoskeleton Technology Could Change the Future of Masonry Article Summary | Source: Masonry Magazine, by Corinne Dutil A featured article in Masonry Magazine highlights the development of a new exoskeleton designed specifically for bricklayers. Created through a partnership between Fraco and Mawashi Science & Technology, the wearable technology is intended to reduce physical strain, support repetitive lifting tasks, and help masons maintain endurance throughout the workday. Originally based on military exoskeleton technology, the system was adapted for masonry applications and provides arm and lifting assistance while allowing users to maintain mobility on the jobsite. Developers believe the technology could improve worker safety, extend careers, and make the trade more accessible to a broader workforce. The article explores the exoskeleton's development, testing, and potential impact on the masonry industry as manufacturers move toward commercial production. Read the full article in Masonry Magazine. This approach makes it clear you're summarizing and promoting the original article, not presenting the content as your own. |
Block Producers Reach New Consumer, Developer Engagement Threshold |
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The BlockStrong.com site illustrates how concrete block walls reflect noise away before it enters an apartment or condominium, isolating it "to the originating unit." A companion section details high R-value potential, another concrete block wall value proposition. Images: Florida Concrete & Products Association.
A Florida Concrete & Products Association and Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council Inc. campaign has ac hieved a milestone in building awareness of the benefits of concrete block construction in single family home and multiunit dwellings: Its centerpiece, the consumer- and professional-geared site, BlockStrong.com, has surpass ed the 1 million annual visitor mark. The campaign’s primary mission is to help Sunshine State consumers, builders, design professionals, and developers understand the vital link between wall construction and the health, safety and comfort of those living in or occupying new homes, apartments or condominiums. “The volume of visitors to BlockStrong.com demonstrates the importance potential homebuyers are placing on using high-quality building materials for their new homes,” says FC&PA President Matt Sitter, who underscores the site’s function “as a great resource as they navigate the home-buying journey.” |
“Through BlockStrong.com, consumers have seen the benefits, value, and beauty of a concrete block home,” adds Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council Executive Director Jim Painter. “Multifamily dwelling developers are [also] leveraging the site to help make sound investment decisions.”
Orlando-based Bright Rain Collaborative developed the Block Strong campaign in partnership with FC&PA. The agency populates BlockStrong.com with a) an extensive list of features helping visitors discover the benefits of concrete block construction, including energy efficiency, plus resistance to fire, storms, termites, mold, and mildew; b) an interactive storm tracker providing real-time radar imagery that is especially beneficial during Florida’s unpredictable rainy season; and, c) mortgage and mold mitigation calculators enabling visitors to customize their search to a specific buying journey. The site likewise offers resources tailored for multifamily project professionals and dispels the myth that apartment or condominium complexes cannot be constructed in a timely fashion using concrete. A deep-dive comparison of concrete, wood and steel, plus a feature on the importance of noise reduction—a top three criteria among renters—lead content offerings for design, construction and development professionals. |
Building Walls Behind Bars:
A Closer Look at the FDOC CTE Masonry Program
Building Walls Behind Bars: A Closer Look at the FDOC CTE Masonry Program8 minutes of readingWords: Cassandra Stern Photos: Swede Melgaard In June 2019, the Florida Department of Corrections (FDOC) released the most recent Florida Prison Recidivism Report. Every year, the Bureau of Research and Data Analysis within the Florida Department of Corrections takes a hard look at the rate of recidivism in their institutions- or the percentage of previously incarcerated …
Florida Department of Corrections Hosts
Inaugural Inmate Masonry Competition
Baker Correctional Institution winners of first ever competition
Press Release
January 27, 2020
Contact: FDC Communications
(850) 488-0420
SANDERSON, Fla. — Inmates from across the state traveled to Baker Correctional Institution to compete in the first ever Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) inter-institutional inmate masonry competition. Seven teams from various Florida correctional institutions showcased their masonry skills, judged by members of the Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Educational Foundation (FMAEF).
“This is a perfect model of how we are trying to take our rehabilitation programming and actually have it contribute to restoring the men and women under our care back to their communities with a skill that can immediately result in employment,” said FDC Secretary Mark S. Inch. “This competition demonstrates the skill that meets industry standards for immediate employment.
January 27, 2020
Contact: FDC Communications
(850) 488-0420
SANDERSON, Fla. — Inmates from across the state traveled to Baker Correctional Institution to compete in the first ever Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) inter-institutional inmate masonry competition. Seven teams from various Florida correctional institutions showcased their masonry skills, judged by members of the Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Educational Foundation (FMAEF).
“This is a perfect model of how we are trying to take our rehabilitation programming and actually have it contribute to restoring the men and women under our care back to their communities with a skill that can immediately result in employment,” said FDC Secretary Mark S. Inch. “This competition demonstrates the skill that meets industry standards for immediate employment.
Florida Department of Corrections
Inter-Institutional Inmate Masonry Competition
We have skilled instructors that are following industry standards, and we have great support from the business community; both from professional and educational organizations.”
Masonry competitions are used industry wide to highlight the quality, skill and fidelity of masonry education programs. FDC’s masonry programs offer industry-recognized certifications through rigorous coursework and hands-on experience. This training program equips inmates with the skills necessary for employment. Prior to release, inmates are paired with industry professionals through FMAEF to assist with immediate employment opportunities.
Bradley Kibbe, Executive Director, Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Educational Foundation, said, “This event brings people together from our industry, from the Department of Corrections, local schools and different agencies, masonry contractors… to let everybody see the work that’s going on within the Department of Corrections to train people to be workforce ready when they’re eligible to come on out and join us in the workforce.”
Paul Rivers, President, Northeast Florida Masonry Chapter said, “I’ve seen these guys grow. Now, we’re having over a dozen guys that are coming together that have skills that we can put together and continue to hone once they are out of here… Most of these guys when they come out they’re thankful to one have a job, and two, to be doing a job that they’ve worked on… so we try to help that and keep motivating these guys because we know it’s hard, it’s a big lifestyle change.” said, “I’ve seen these guys grow. Now, we’re having over a dozen guys that are coming together that have skills that we can put together and continue to hone once they are out of here… Most of these guys when they come out they’re thankful to one have a job, and two, to be doing a job that they’ve worked on… so we try to help that and keep motivating these guys because we know it’s hard, it’s a big lifestyle change.”
At the conclusion of the competition, guest judges from the masonry industry awarded the team from Baker Correctional Institution with top honors, followed by Columbia CI Annex and Hamilton Correctional Institution.
Masonry competitions are used industry wide to highlight the quality, skill and fidelity of masonry education programs. FDC’s masonry programs offer industry-recognized certifications through rigorous coursework and hands-on experience. This training program equips inmates with the skills necessary for employment. Prior to release, inmates are paired with industry professionals through FMAEF to assist with immediate employment opportunities.
Bradley Kibbe, Executive Director, Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Educational Foundation, said, “This event brings people together from our industry, from the Department of Corrections, local schools and different agencies, masonry contractors… to let everybody see the work that’s going on within the Department of Corrections to train people to be workforce ready when they’re eligible to come on out and join us in the workforce.”
Paul Rivers, President, Northeast Florida Masonry Chapter said, “I’ve seen these guys grow. Now, we’re having over a dozen guys that are coming together that have skills that we can put together and continue to hone once they are out of here… Most of these guys when they come out they’re thankful to one have a job, and two, to be doing a job that they’ve worked on… so we try to help that and keep motivating these guys because we know it’s hard, it’s a big lifestyle change.” said, “I’ve seen these guys grow. Now, we’re having over a dozen guys that are coming together that have skills that we can put together and continue to hone once they are out of here… Most of these guys when they come out they’re thankful to one have a job, and two, to be doing a job that they’ve worked on… so we try to help that and keep motivating these guys because we know it’s hard, it’s a big lifestyle change.”
At the conclusion of the competition, guest judges from the masonry industry awarded the team from Baker Correctional Institution with top honors, followed by Columbia CI Annex and Hamilton Correctional Institution.