March 08, 2004 10:09 AM CST

Making the Grade: Student in the Spotlight

By Masonry

Philip Schon of Jackson, N.J., is our Masonry Apprentice of the Month. Like many aspiring young masons, he epitomizes the hard-working, independent spirit of the masonry trade. Encouraged by his vo-tech instructor, John Biscardi, Schon is already working for himself doing masonry jobs.

Schon represented the state of New Jersey in the national masonry contest held this past summer in Kansas City, Mo., in conjunction with the SkillsUSA?VICA National Leadership and Skills Conference. He competed in the post-secondary division.

Schon credits his instructor at the Ocean County Vo-Tech School in Jackson for getting him involved in masonry competitions that led him to the nationals.

"I think Mr. Biscardi is the best teacher," says Schon. "He always helped me out and always told me when I'd done well."

Schon is a well-rounded young man, having participated in high school football and track. In addition, he was awarded Eagle Scout honors for his participation in Boy Scouts of America.

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About the Author

Masonry, the official publication of the Mason Contractors Association of America, covers every aspect of the mason contractor profession - equipment and techniques, building codes and standards, business planning, promoting your business, legal issues and more. Read or subscribe to Masonry magazine at www.masonrymagazine.com.