The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) supports thousands of contractors, engineers, and manufacturers across North America. Founded in 1918, the association represents the producers of concrete masonry and hardscape products, including block, brick, pavers, and segmental retaining walls. This association can be a valuable connection point for tradespeople and businesses working with block and stone. It builds credibility and client trust, and helps members keep pace with codes and product advancements. Whether running a two-person operation or a multi-state crew, NCMA offers access to tools that are hard to come by on your own.

What they do, offer, and why you should consider joining

At its core, NCMA is a trade association dedicated to promoting the use of concrete masonry products and supporting the professionals who make and install them. Its members include producers, suppliers, engineers, builders, and architects. 

The association develops technical resources, training, and certification programs. This helps smaller firms compete with larger outfits by offering credible qualifications and expert guidance. Their staff includes engineers and technical advisors who support members with structural questions, code clarifications, and design reviews.

Education is one of the most significant benefits of membership. 

Through programs like the Certified Segmental Retaining Wall Installer and Concrete Masonry Testing Technician, workers and supervisors gain credentials that carry weight in the bidding process. NCMA also runs workshops and webinars on material performance and fire-resistance ratings. 

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On the advocacy side, Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association works directly with state and national officials to protect and grow the concrete masonry industry. In the U.S., they’ve helped shape legislation supporting small block producers, including the Concrete Masonry Products Research, Education, and Promotion Act. That act allowed block manufacturers to pool marketing and research funds to improve awareness of masonry’s safety, durability, and sustainability benefits. 

For builders and small contractors, joining an association like NCMA connects them to members with new project leads, offers bulk discounts on insurance and testing, and puts their company name in front of engineers and specifiers. Those benefits stack up fast in an industry where relationships and reliability lead to success.

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