International Masonry Institute

?? I love this architecture student’s reaction as she watches the expert… and then tries herself! International Masonry Institute bricklaying instructor Isidro Valdez shows this aspiring architect from Illinois Institute of Technology the nuances of the “cut and roll” technique of manipulating mortar onto the trowel and then onto the wall. She seems impressed. I know I am! (Unmute the volume for best effect.) #ArchitectsLayingBrick #Masonry #Training #IIT #IllinoisInstituteOfTechnology #IllinoisTech

Iquanda Porter has always had a keen interest in construction. As a teenager, she would spend hours watching welding videos. Now, as a PCC apprentice on the verge of becoming a journeywoman, her desire to learn even more skills continues to grow. "Kicking off my career in construction and joining BAC Local 1 in Connecticut was a natural choice for me, especially since my sister was already a journeywoman. I had a strong female role model to follow. There’s something truly special about creating things with my hands, and I want more women to understand that there’s ample opportunity for creativity in the construction field. I’m incredibly grateful to my mentor, Dennis Duarte, who has consistently encouraged me to aim higher and strive for more in this industry. He never allowed me to doubt my abilities, which has helped me stand confidently in my work and let it speak for itself. As women in construction, working for companies that support our growth is essential. I am fortunate to work for Summit Masonry & Building Restoration, which has allowed me to advance into leadership positions. In a few weeks, I will officially become a journeywoman, and I cannot wait to see how much I will continue to grow. I’m also looking forward to returning to the International Training Center to enhance my skills and expand my repertoire." #WomeninConstructionWeek

Are you designing buildings that can withstand extreme weather? ????? Join our upcoming webinar to learn the latest storm shelter design standards! We'll discuss ICC 500, FEMA 361, IBC updates, and the crucial role of masonry in building safety. Are you ready to build safer? Register now! https://hubs.la/Q037-F630

Join us in celebrating Women in Construction Week by highlighting Seneca Colberta, a Chicago Paul Simon Job Corps Center graduate who completed her pre-job training at the BAC/IMI International Training Center this year and is now a BAC ADC 1 of Illinois bricklaying apprentice. "I've always had an interest in construction, diving into various trades from plumbing to carpentry, but it was masonry that truly set my creativity free! Coming from a family of dedicated nurses, I grew up surrounded by strong women who instilled in me the importance of making my mark in any field and fearlessly stepping into history. My Job Corps instructor and mentor, Jackie Townsend, showed me the impact I could have when she invited me to participate in the restoration project at the Emmett Till House in Chicago. How many pre-job students can say they contributed to such an iconic landmark? I can, and I proudly share my journey as a young Black woman in construction, shaping the future one brick at a time!" #womeninconstructionweek2025

Former BAC President and IMI Co-Chair John J. Flynn was instrumental in developing the BAC/IMI International Training Center, which is named in his honor. "This will become BAC's university and provide the best training in the industry for our apprentices and journeylevel members in all of crafts," he said at the time of the Center's opening. His legacy lives on through the countless craftworkers who've visited us for training, now and into the future. Rest in peace, Brother Flynn.

Have you ever wondered what makes a building historic? ?? Casey Weisdock is here to break it down! Learn what it takes for a building to earn that "historic" label, and how YOU can nominate a building in your community. #HistoricBuildings #Preservation

Have you ever wondered how to use masonry veneers on tall wood structures successfully? ?? It's more common, but also more complex! We're diving deep into exterior wall backing systems, differential movement, and the secrets to making it work on buildings over 30' tall. Join our FREE webinar to learn from the experts! Register today! https://hubs.la/Q037ZGpV0

Join us to explore real-world examples and learn when prefabrication is a good fit for projects. Discover how early planning and effective communication are essential for success. ?????Register for this free webinar on Tuesday, February 25: https://hubs.ly/Q036sVqN0

Always a great time at Oregon State University masonry workshop for the structural engineering students. NWCMA, IMI, and the local BAC provide materials and instruction, then let the students try their hand at laying brick and block. The students are always engaged and appreciative of the knowledge and skill it takes to properly lay masonry.