Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner with us
MCAA Logo
Log in Sign up Join Hi, there Account
2026 Midyear Registration is OPEN
Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner
Log in Sign up Join Account

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 27 Recap: Chris Bettinger, Oldcastle Coastal

Words: Justin Stengel


Chris Bettinger's journey into masonry wasn't a deliberate choice but rather a confluence of unexpected life events and career shifts. With an architecture degree from the University of Michigan, Chris began his career in residential design. However, the advent of parenthood necessitated a more stable path, prompting his transition from design to specification work for Tyvek.

Chris's foray into masonry was serendipitous, occurring while presenting at a homebuilders' show where he was invited to "sell brick." Emphasizing product storytelling over traditional sales, Chris gradually became an integral part of the masonry sector. He focused on educating clients, showcasing product efficacy through discussions and presentations.

Chris's upbringing in a family of engineers shaped his architectural aspirations. His creative inclinations led him to architecture, providing the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality. Although a career in masonry was unplanned, it became a fulfilling pathway, evolving through personal and professional growth rather than a linear trajectory.

In a field characterized by variety, Chris found his niche. The dynamic nature of masonry, encompassing presentations, problem-solving, and engaging client interactions, keeps him intrigued. Beyond routine tasks, every day presents new challenges, reinforcing his commitment to the industry.

Networking and collaboration became pivotal facets of Chris's career. His involvement with the Brick Industry Association and national associations like NCMA (now CMHA) underscored the importance of teamwork in the masonry industry. These gatherings foster diverse perspectives, essential for industry evolution.

Mentoring and engaging the next generation became priorities for Chris, as he witnessed myriad changes within masonry. He emphasizes opportunities beyond manual labor, encouraging involvement in advanced technology, project management, and public speaking. Programs aimed at integrating diverse demographics, from teenagers to adults in transition, highlight masonry's evolving landscape.

Despite challenges, Chris underscores the allure of masonry careers. The hands-on nature of the work, coupled with advanced technological innovations like robotics and virtual reality, positions masonry as a forward-thinking industry. Building a legacy, whether through public spaces or high-rise buildings, encapsulates Chris's vision of contributing to something enduring.

Beyond his professional endeavors, family remains a cornerstone for Chris, reflecting on personal achievements like woodworking—a skill honed during college. His emphasis on finding one's fit and embracing non-traditional career paths is a testament to his belief in masonry's potential to foster fulfilling careers.

While embracing change, Chris remains optimistic about masonry's future. With increasing technological integration and collaborative efforts, the industry is poised for a transformative leap. The next generation stands ready to embrace these changes, ensuring masonry's continued relevance and impact.

Through Chris's journey, the narrative of masonry evolves—from a stability-seeking career shift to a lifelong endeavor fueled by innovation, education, and a passion for building enduring legacies.


About: The MASONRY STRONG Podcast
 0
Bonding with Masonry 2026: Q2
June 2026

This issue’s questions come from a Mason Contractor and an Engineer. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk.

David Biggs
Bonding with Masonry
Read More
The Thirty-Year Mason: Ergonomics as a Retention Strategy
June 2026

In most industry circles, the conversation around the labor shortage follows a predictable script: How do we find the next generation of masons? While recruitment is vital, we often overlook the most valuable asset already on the job site: the experienced

Shayne Sanders
MAP Partner
Read More
Acme Brick Company Releases 2026 Pocket Guide to Brick Construction
June 2026

For more than four decades, all the basics of building with brick have come in a guide small enough to fit into a pocket. Acme Brick has just released a 2026 version of its Pocket Guide to Brick Construction. And yes, it’s still printed on paper just like

MAP Partner
Read More
Masonry in the Media: Casa Azul, Chapultepec Castle, & More
June 2026

A film’s settings can take viewers to new locations, all from the comfort of their own home. It immerses them in the scenes, whether they take place in an opera house in Brazil or a grand mansion in Mexico City. Explore how these Latin American masonry ma

Lily Burger
Masonry in the Media
Read More