“Our online technical manual includes detail drawings for both masonry veneers and structural walls in CAD and 3D modelling, so architects, building envelope specialists and engineers can see walls being built through a series of layers and the sequence of con- struction. It’s a unique feature and one that is getting positive feed- back and one we hope will help inspire. These MIBC Details are available for free download on our MIBC website.” The feedback has been so pos- itive, the institute is now collabo- rating with its counterpart in Alberta to roll the program out there and may look at expanding it across Canada. Another source of inspiration is the MIBC masonry awards, held every three years. The awards, next scheduled for 2015, include submissions by architects and engineers and include recog- nition in a variety of categories including restoration, commer- cial, residential and institutional projects. People’s choice awards from the attendees at the awards ban- quet also showcase masonry design excellence, innovation and beauty. Another concern and focus of the institute, as with many sectors of the industry, is the aging workforce. McEwen says the masonry training school in Surrey offers apprenticeship pro- grams, but they are not full and the tendency of workers in the field to retire younger is a cause for concern. “Bricklaying is not about sheer strength but it does require skill, concentration, technique and working outdoors,” he said. “We need to work more with schools and counsellors to educate people. “Masonry is a good job and provides a good career. People coming out of apprenticeships are already ahead of the game financially. Trades simply aren’t given appropriate considera- tion.” McEwen says women's participation in masonry is histori- cally low but doesn’t have to be. The institute continues in its research efforts which will con- tribute to future building code developments. “We’re co-ordi- nating with others in Canada and the U.S., sharing information on common issues and common concerns and working to raise the bar for masonry across the country.” For more information, visit www.masonrybc.org. www.merx.com/events merk@merx.com www.merx.com The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Summer 2014 – 13