New MIA Stone Craftsman Prize

The Genuine Stone Craftsman of the Year Award will recognize an individual who’s shown outstanding work through a career of work and guidance to others in the trade.
The new award will be sponsored by LATICRETE International Inc. and Campolonghi Italia SpA.

Image courtesy MIA

“While the innate beauty and durability of genuine stone is what attracts customers to our products, there is nothing more important than excellence in craftsmanship to get the most out of nature’s oldest building material,” said Brett Rugo, MIA vice president.
The award will “recognize one craftsman who has physically performed outstanding stone fabrication and installation over a period of many years,” Rugo continued. “The individual selected must have served an apprenticeship in stone work and risen through the ranks as a mason, foreman and superintendent.
“Additionally, the person honored must have a solid track record of leadership and mentorship – a real educator for those he works with.”
The competition is open to all MIA members. Potential honorees need to submit an application with career details and a letter of nomination from his current employer.
The entry should also include at least three descriptions and photos of completed projects and a written description of the candidate’s role in the project.
The deadline for entry is June 30, 2009. Judging will be done by a panel of three MIA member-company representatives.
The award will be presented at StonExpo/ Marmomacc Americas 2009 in Las Vegas on Oct. 23 at the MIA Awards Luncheon. The awards video and brochure will highlight examples of the winner’s work.