The bricklaying and masonry program students at Southwest Tech have been chosen as finalists for “Crews That Rock,” a competition sponsored by the largest bricklaying and masonry trade show in the country, World of Concrete. Votes for the most unique and inspiring project are being collected through the World of Concrete’s website. The winners of the competition will receive airfare, hotel, and specialty seminars at the trade show in Las Vegas.

“Winning this competition would provide a great opportunity for my students,” said  Don Borchert, Southwest Tech bricklaying and masonry program instructor.  “The students would be able to talk to tool suppliers, product manufacturers, view demonstrations on new equipment, participate in competitions, attend seminars, and network with professionals in the industry.”

Borchert submitted an entry for his crew, which recently donated time to the Grant Regional Health Center Foundation by laying and sealing engraved bricks within the hospital’s Memory Walk. The Memory Walk was designed to form a sidewalk and patio area surrounding the Healing Garden, an outdoor space for patients, family, and friends to reflect, relax, and enjoy quiet conversation. The space was also created to provide tribute through the purchase of an engraved brick or paver.

“These projects are perfect examples of how the masonry trade can provide a very special gift,” Borchert explained. “The Memory Walk project taught my crew that this is not just a brick sidewalk. Every brick in the Memory Walk tells a story, represents an individual, and is much more than just a brick. 

“I am very excited this project has been selected as a finalist for the ‘Crews That Rock competition.’ It solidifies the importance of charitable projects and has made my students excited to become a part of the bricklaying and masonry industry.”