Release: Q2 Report to Florida Commerce

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.

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