FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 31, 2025

Building Florida’s Future: Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council Q3 2025 Highlights

From July through September 2025, the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (FCMEC) continued its mission to strengthen Florida’s concrete masonry industry and workforce. The Council advanced key initiatives that support industry education, workforce growth, and consumer awareness.

Block Strong Campaign Momentum
The Block Strong campaign, powered in partnership with the Florida Concrete & Products Association, continued to deliver impressive results. The website drew more than 465,000 visitors this quarter—on pace to exceed last year’s record. Engaging topics like Storm Resistant, Fire Resistant, and Hurricane Prep drew the most attention. Digital marketing remained strong, generating 36.9 million impressions and over 600,000 clicks, while social media maintained steady engagement across Facebook and Instagram. Partnerships with Florida Trend and the AIA member magazine expanded visibility, and collaboration with the American Institute of Architects grew through educational messaging and event participation, including a lively “Block Party” at the AIA Annual Convention.

Workforce Development Progress
Florida Masonry, Inc. (FM), the Council’s workforce partner, made strides in building the state’s masonry talent pipeline. Highlights included:

• Membership Growth: Three regional membership drives brought in new contractor and associate members.
• Hands-On Learning: The Masonry Apprentice Expo & Open House in Tampa connected students, educators, and employers.
• Training & Certification: A Masonry Construction & Inspection Workshop in Orlando awarded 180 CE hours to participants.
• Pre-Apprenticeship Expansion: The St. Cloud High School program officially launched, and planning advanced for correctional facility programs and a new masonry club with Duval County’s Department of Juvenile Justice.
• Curriculum & Placement: New NCCER instructor training was completed, and nine participants from justice system programs were placed into the workforce—well on track toward the annual goal of 50 placements.

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Industry Impact & Outlook
About 30% of Florida’s block producers are now voluntarily contributing to the Council’s assessment program, ensuring the sustainability of future initiatives. The successful completion of the $1.96 million Foundations for Life Grant showcased strong outcomes, with 89% of participants finishing work-readiness training and only a 6% recidivism rate.

Looking ahead, FCMEC remains focused on expanding its apprenticeship pathways, strengthening partnerships, and promoting concrete masonry as a resilient, sustainable, and rewarding career for Floridians.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2025 

FCMEC: Annual Report 2025 Highlights 
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The Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (the Council) submitted its Annual Report of 2025 to Florida's Department of Commerce. Submitted in compliance with Section 6.3 of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Florida Department of Commerce, this report outlines the Council's noteable achievements and activities for the period of July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.  

Key highlights from the report include:

• Block Strong Campaign: Achieved record-setting engagement with 1.8 million website visitors, strong social media metrics (1.6M+ impressions), and strategic digital and TV advertising.
• Florida Masonry Apprentice and Educational Foundation (FMAEF) (pre-merger July-Dec 2024): Expanded masonry workforce through pre-apprenticeship training, NCCER credentialing, and workforce reentry programs, with 69 individuals graduating from correctional facilities.
• Masonry Association of Florida (MAF) (pre-merger July-Dec 2024): Provided professional education, technical assistance via its Help Desk, and industry recognition through its Masonry Excellence Awards.
• Florida Masonry, Inc. (FM) (post-merger July 2024-June 2025): The result of a merger between MAF and FMAEF, FM successfully established its new governance, grew contractor membership, launched educational series, and initiated new high school pre-apprenticeship programs. FM also coordinated student participation in SkillsUSA competitions and placed 9 students into masonry careers or apprenticeships.
• Foundations for Life (F4L) Grant (July 2024-June 2025): This U.S. Department of Labor grant concluded, having served 200 incarcerated individuals with training and reentry support. Key outcomes include 51% securing unsubsidized employment with a median wage of $15+/hour and a final recidivism rate of 6%.

Additional MOA Requirements:

• Strategic Plan (2024–2027), Code of Ethics, and IRS Form 990 were submitted as attachments.

The report concludes that the Council has demonstrated continued effectiveness in supporting Florida's concrete masonry industry through education, workforce development, and strategic leadership.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 31, 2025 

The Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (the Council) submitted its Second Quarter Report of 2025 to Florida's Department of Commerce. This report covers their noteable achievements and activities for the period of April 1, 2025 through June 30, 2025. 

​Key highlights from the report include:
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• Block Strong Campaign: The campaign saw strong website performance with 481,180 visits and the successful launch of a Hurricane Preparedness Guide. Digital advertising and social media efforts focused on seasonal awareness and consumer engagement, leading to 1,184,683 impressions on social media. The partnership with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Florida deepened, with plans for a larger presence at the AIA Florida Annual Convention.
• Workforce Development (Florida Masonry - FM): FM focused on expanding contractor membership, promoting the new NCCER masonry curriculum, and increasing student outreach. They welcomed nine new members and participated in various career fairs and exposure days.
• Pre-Apprenticeship Programs: FM is making progress toward launching three new high school pre-apprenticeship programs in Fall 2025.
• Apprentice Matriculation: 13 students expressed interest in Fall 2025 apprenticeship programs, and several individuals were successfully placed in employment, including six from the Department of Juvenile Justice.
• Industry Participation Rate: As of mid-year 2025, approximately 30% of concrete block producers in Florida are voluntarily contributing to the Council's assessment program.
• Foundations for Life (F4L) Grant: The US Department of Labor grant concluded on December 31, 2024. The program served 200 incarcerated individuals, with 51% securing unsubsidized employment and a recidivism rate of 6%. The Council is working to resolve an outstanding reimbursement issue.
• National Checkoff Program: The Council's Board of Directors is monitoring the implications of the National Checkoff Program and intends to maintain the Florida State Checkoff Program until adequate funding is secured nationally.

The report concludes by emphasizing the Council's momentum in strengthening Florida's masonry workforce and ensuring long-term industry sustainability.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2025 - This report from the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (FCMEC) details their progress and activities from January 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025, in advancing the concrete masonry industry in Florida.


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Key highlights include:
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• Block Strong Campaign: The campaign continues to educate the public on the benefits of concrete block construction, particularly its resilience to severe weather. The website, blockstrong.com, saw 345,000 visitors in Q1 2025, with "Storm Resistant" being the most visited page. Digital marketing efforts emphasized video content and print placements in industry publications.
• Florida Masonry (FM) Activities: FM focused on strengthening the masonry workforce. They hosted certification workshops and "lunch and learns," resulting in 34,866 CEU hours awarded. They are actively recruiting new contractor members and developing pre-apprenticeship programs with a focus on high school students and adult job seekers. FM is also planning for the Construction Ready Career Expo and SkillsUSA competitions to increase awareness of masonry careers.
• NCCER Curriculum: Full implementation of the new NCCER curriculum is pending the availability of updated course books, expected mid-summer 2025.
• Foundations for Life (F4L) Grant: This grant, which concluded on December 31, 2024, served 200 incarcerated individuals, with 51% securing unsubsidized employment and a recidivism rate of 6%, outperforming the grant goal. The Council is working with the USDOL to formally close out the grant.
• National Checkoff Program: The FCMEC Board of Directors is engaged in discussions regarding the National Checkoff Program and plans to maintain the Florida State Checkoff Program until adequate national funding is secured.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2024 – The Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (the Council) convened its Annual Board of Directors meeting today, a virtual gathering held to address key financial matters, grant updates, and strategic initiatives. The meeting, which was recorded for transparency, saw active participation from board members, AE staff, and guests.

A central focus of the meeting revolved around the Council's financial health and compliance. The Board moved to approve the Auditor's Report for Fiscal Year 2023 and certified FCMEC's compliance to FloridaCommerce, a crucial step in maintaining its operational integrity. Further financial approvals included the FCMEC Financial Reports through May 31, 2024, as well as critical budget adjustments with the approval of FCMEC Budget Amendment II - 2024 and the FCMEC Preliminary Budget - 2025.

Significant attention was also given to the "Foundations for Life" grant program. The Board approved the Foundations for Life Budget Modification - 2024, along with related contract amendments for PCG Foundations for Life and the ROTH Foundations for Life Support Services Contract, demonstrating the Council's commitment to the program's success. Updates on the grant's progress were also provided as an informational item.

In terms of leadership, the Board proceeded with the Election of Officers for the upcoming term (July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025), with a recommended slate put forth for approval. Additionally, the nomination of new Board Members, Kyle Lidinsky and Mark Arbuckle, was a key action item, signaling growth and renewed perspectives within the Council.

Informational items covered a range of important topics, including updates on the ongoing merger discussions between the Masonry Association of Florida (MAF) and the Florida Masonry Apprentice & Educational Foundation (FMAEF). Second-quarter provider updates from MAF, FMAEF, and FC&PA offered insights into industry activities. A legislative update kept the Board informed of relevant policy developments. The appointment of the Budget & Finance Committee for 2024-2025 was also announced, setting the stage for future financial oversight.

Attendees were reminded of the state-required financial disclosure filing for 2023/2024 and the upcoming 2025 Voluntary Producer Agreement, emphasizing adherence to regulatory requirements and ongoing industry support.

The meeting's minutes from May 8, 2024, were also reviewed and approved, documenting prior decisions such as the approval of the University of Florida Market Study Report (2022), year-end and quarterly financial reports, revisions to MAF and MAEF 2024 contract amendments, and the FCMEC Strategic Plan - 2024-2027.

The next Board of Directors Meeting and Budget & Finance Committee Meeting are scheduled for September 25, 2024.

About Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (the Council):
The Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council is dedicated to promoting and supporting education within the concrete masonry industry in Florida. Through grants, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, FCMEC strives to advance the knowledge and skills of individuals and organizations involved in the concrete masonry sector.

At the 2024 FC & PA Annual Convention, the Florida masonry community came together to recognize one of its most beloved and respected figures. The Bill Hicklin Award, the highest honor given annually to a member of the concrete masonry industry, was presented posthumously to James “Jim” Fulmer Painter, a master craftsman, devoted mentor, and lifelong champion of masonry in Florida.

Although Jim was not with us to receive the award in person, his legacy was honored with reverence, gratitude, and admiration. His wife Elise Painter accepted the award on his behalf, sharing reflections that spoke to the heart of who Jim was, not only as a skilled mason but as a pillar of character and commitment.

Jim's story is one deeply rooted in the tradition of masonry. A third-generation brick mason, Jim came to Gainesville in 1957 with his father, who had taken a job working on Williamson Hall, the first of many projects the Painter family would contribute to on the University of Florida campus. From those early days, Jim would go on to build a career defined by excellence, integrity, and leadership.

Over the years, he became known not just for the quality of his work, but for the way he lifted others up—offering guidance to young apprentices, championing workforce development, and giving his time, company resources, and moral support to strengthen the entire industry.

Jim passed away at the age of 71 due to an unexpected complication following a courageous year-long battle with cancer. His absence was profoundly felt at this year’s gathering, but so too was his enduring presence in the lives and work of those he inspired.

The Bill Hicklin Award, named for the first president of the Florida Concrete & Products Association and a man equally dedicated to the advancement of concrete masonry, is reserved for individuals whose leadership and generosity elevate the entire profession. Jim Painter was such a person.

This award serves not only as a tribute to Jim’s lifelong dedication but also as a reminder that his influence lives on in every project he touched, every mason he mentored, and every corner of Florida where his legacy continues to rise—block by block.

At this year’s annual meeting, the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council took a moment to recognize and celebrate the outstanding leadership of Rocky Jenkins, who recently concluded his two-year term as Board Chair.
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Rocky’s service to the Council went above and beyond the call of duty. Originally appointed to a standard term, Rocky graciously agreed to extend his tenure by an additional year following the unexpected and heartbreaking passing of Executive Director Jim Painter. At a time of immense transition and emotional difficulty for the organization, Rocky provided exactly the kind of leadership we needed—steady, direct, and full of integrity.

Throughout these past two years, Rocky helped guide the Council through numerous challenges and transitions. His thoughtful approach, clear communication, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in helping the Council stay focused on its mission while navigating a deeply personal and professional loss.

​Rocky has always led with humility and strength. Whether offering encouragement, making tough decisions, or helping move initiatives forward, his leadership left a lasting impact on both the Board and the staff.
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Council staff and board members alike are grateful for Rocky’s dedication, wisdom, and willingness to lead through such a pivotal time in our organization’s history. We will truly miss working alongside him in this role, but we remain better for having had his guidance.

Thank you, Rocky, for your service, your support, and the stability you brought to the Council when it was needed most.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 22, 2023 - The Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (the Council) Board of Directors convened virtually on June 22, 2023, for its annual meeting covering financial reporting requirements, strategic initiatives, and key appointments, and program updates.

The meeting began with the approval of the Fiscal Year 2022 Auditor's Report, presented by Verdeja, De Armas & Trujillo, LLP, ensuring financial transparency. Following this, the Council affirmed its compliance with the Memorandum of Agreement and Florida laws by certifying its Statement of Compliance to the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO). AE Staff then presented and gained approval for the Council's financial reports through May 31, 2023, including the Balance Sheet and Budget vs. Actual reports. Further financial planning was established with the approval of both the third amendment to the 2023 budget and the preliminary 2024 budget.

A significant update came from Dr. Raymond Issa regarding the ongoing University of Florida data collection project. The Board also moved forward with key leadership changes, approving the Nominating Committee's recommended slate of officers for the upcoming term (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024), which included David Cerniglia as Vice Chair, Mark Smith as Treasurer, and Danielle Larson as Secretary. Additionally, the Nominating Committee proposed new Board members, with Preston Sparkman, Ted Caviglia, Shawn McGee, and Jerry Painter being put forth for approval.

Informational items provided a broader look at the Council's activities and the industry at large. Preston Sparkman offered an update on the National Checkoff Program. Representatives from the Masonry Association of Florida (MAF), Masonry Apprentice and Educational Foundation (MAEF), Florida Independent Concrete & Associated Products (FICAP), and Florida Concrete & Products Association (FC&PA) presented their second-quarter performance updates for 2023.

Counsel David Ramba provided valuable legislative insights pertinent to the masonry industry, and discussed sales tax requirements for assessments. A status report was presented on the Foundations for Life grant, highlighting a recent programmatic and financial monitoring conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor.

A reminder was issued to producers regarding the 2023 voluntary Producer Contribution Agreement, urging them to sign and return it to FCMEC staff to help ensure accurate funding for the budget. Chair Rocky Jenkins also announced the appointments to the 2023-2024 Budget & Finance Committee, including David Cerniglia, Rocky Jenkins, Mark Smith, Danielle Larson, and Troy Maschmeyer.

The timely submission of the first-quarter 2023 report to the DEO was acknowledged. Board members were also reminded of their obligation to file 2022 financial disclosure forms (Form 1) with the Florida Commission on Ethics by July 1, 2023, and Form 1F for those departing the Board in 2023.

Looking ahead, future FCMEC meetings were scheduled for September 20, 2023, and December 6, 2023. The September meeting will focus on provider work plans and funding requests, while the December meeting will address contract renewals. The meeting concluded with a clear path forward for the Council’s continued efforts in masonry education and industry support.

James “Jim” Fulmer Painter, 71, left this world suddenly due to an unforeseen complication following a year-long battle with cancer. He was born October 23, 1951 in Palo Alto, California to Abraham and Etoile (Thompson) Painter.

Jim was fully devoted to the masonry industry. He was a third-generation brick mason who came to Gainesville in 1957 alongside his father, who came to work on Williamson Hall - the first of many jobs on the University of Florida campus the Painter family would work on over his lifetime.

In 1968, Painter Masonry, Inc. was founded. Over the course of over 40 years with Painter Masonry, Jim worked alongside his father Abe and brother Jerry by setting the standard of quality masonry for commercial, industrial and institutional buildings throughout North Central Florida, including countless buildings at the University of Florida.

Jim loved the city of Gainesville. He served his beloved community as a City Commissioner from 1990-1996 and served as mayor 1993-1996. While he was mayor, Gainesville was awarded “America’s Most Livable City” by Money Magazine. He gave of his time and talent to many organizations, including Santa Fe College Endowment Corporation, the Corporate Advisory Board for The Villages Senior Living Community, Alachua-Bradford County Workforce Development Board, the Gainesville Jaycees, the Gainesville Elks Lodge, the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Builders Association of North Central Florida, the Florida Home Builders Association, and the Girls Club of Alachua County.

He continued to advocate for his industry as the Executive Director of the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council. Jim played a pivotal role in getting the Concrete Block Checkoff Program passed through Florida’s state legislature. He had many additional career accomplishments, such as being the first masonry contractor to receive the Florida Home Builders Association Builder of the Year Award and the Masonry Association of Florida’s Chairman’s award, both in 2013.

Jim knew no stranger. He was a public servant, a friend and confidant to many, and a tireless businessman. When he was not working, he most enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling the country, seeing the sunrise at the beach, and watching any Florida Gator game. He will be tremendously missed.

Preceding him in death were his parents Abraham and Etoile (Granny Toad) Painter as well as many beloved aunts and uncles. Jim is survived by his wife Elise Hitchcock, his brother, Jerry Painter, sister, Nancy (Michael) Clayton, daughters Alison (Graham) Glover and Page (David) Gritte and his greatest joy and inspiration, his grandchildren: Hannah Grace Glover, Graham “Gray” Glover, Jr., Caroline Jane Gritte and Henry Stewart Gritte.

A memorial service will be held in The Lyceum at Santa Fe College on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at 3:00pm. All those who wish to join in honoring Jim are welcome to attend.

A special thank you to his oncology and clinical trial teams at UF Health Gainesville and Jacksonville and especially to the MICU staff at UF Health Shands Hospital for their overwhelming commitment to helping Jim’s fight.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jim’s memory to the Abraham and Etoile Painter Scholarship Fund at Santa Fe College, 3000 NE 83rd Street F-207, Gainesville, FL 32606 or at www.sfcollege.edu/foundation/donation. Please visit his memorial page at www.williamsthomasfuneralhome.com.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
WILLIAMS-THOMAS DOWNTOWN
352-376-7556

Posted online on January 17, 2023
Published in Gainesville Sun

Pathway Home, Young Adult Reentry Partnership grants support education, training

​WASHINGTON, DC – With the belief that a second chance can change a person’s life, the U.S. Department of Labor today announced the award of more than $85.5 million in grants to assist individuals now or once involved in the criminal justice system to secure employment in their communities.

The department’s Employment and Training Administration – which administers the grants – has awarded 28 grants to organizations in 17 states and Washington, D.C. The awards derive from two ETA programs, 22 in the Pathway Home program and six in Young Adult Reentry Partnership program.

“The Biden-Harris administration is committed to creating more opportunities for justice-involved individuals to complete high school and college, enter apprenticeships and share the benefits as our economy continues to recover,” said Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh. “By investing in programs to prepare these individuals for job opportunities, the Labor Department is also investing in our communities and our families.”

Pathway Home grants will support expanded services to eligible, incarcerated individuals in state correctional facilities or local jails prior- and post-release to help eliminate the gap between release and enrollment into a reentry program leading to employment. 

Young Adult Reentry Partnership grants will aid recipients in strengthening their partnerships with community colleges and link these young adults – from age 18 to 24 – now or once involved in the criminal justice system, with apprenticeships and other opportunities in their communities in growing industries including information technology, healthcare and energy.

Awards announced today are the second round of grants under the Reentry Employment Opportunities program. In July 2020, the department awarded more than $90 million in YARP and Pathway Home grants.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 31, 2017

CONTACT: GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 717-9282
media@eog.myflorida.com

Governor Rick Scott Appoints Five to Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council
 
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott announced the reappointment of two and the appointment of three to the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council.

Kelly Curtis, 47, of Windermere, is the vice president and general manager of Prestige Concrete Products VCNA. He is reappointed for a term beginning January 31, 2017, and ending June 30, 2019.

Darryl Fales, 46, of Estero, is the president of Preferred Materials - Concrete Division. He succeeds Bernardo Diaz and is appointed for a term beginning January 31, 2017, and ending June 30, 2019.

Dr. Michael Armbruster, 54, of Winter Garden, is an educator for Orange County Public Schools. He fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning January 31, 2017, and ending June 30, 2017.

Jay Snyder, 56, of Orlando, is the president of Masonry Accessories, Inc. He fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning January 31, 2017, and ending June 30, 2018.

Robert Carlton, 43, of Saint Augustine, is the general manager of Capital Concrete and Masonry, Inc. He is reappointed for a term beginning January 31, 2017, and ending June 30, 2019
 
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The National Concrete Masonry Association recognized the Florida Concrete & Products Association (FC&PA), and the Florida Concrete Masonry Education Council (FCMEC) in their public education efforts. In particular, the eNews article described the "Block of the Game" promotion, and also featured links to www.ConcreteBlockHomes.com and the Concrete Block Homes Youtube page.