FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

FDC Hosts Second Annual Inmate Masonry Competition
Correctional institutions compete statewide in industry recognized event

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is pleased to announce the second annual inmate masonry competition. Competitors representing eight different Florida Department of Corrections vocational masonry programs will showcase skills learned in the program and be tested on their knowledge of industry practices. The event will be judged by members of the Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Educational Foundation (FMAEF).

“We want every inmate to be given an opportunity to make positive choices during their time in our custody. This event allows for participation in a friendly competition while showcasing hard earned skills in an industry-recognized event,” said FDC Secretary Mark S. Inch. “The participants are excited to compete, and we are happy to partner them with the industry leaders who will help them pave the way to success by welcoming them in their trade following their release.”

Competitors in this event are instructed to build a brick and mortar structure capable of appeasing the critical eye of an experienced judge who will inspect every component of the final product. Masonry competitions are used industry wide to highlight the quality, skill and fidelity of masonry education programs. FDC’s masonry programs offer industry-recognized certifications through rigorous coursework and hands-on experience. Prior to release, inmates are paired with industry professionals through FMAEF to assist with immediate employment opportunities.

This year’s event will be held through the month of May at individual participating institution sites. Following the competition, judges will award the top three winning teams during a virtual meeting on May 20. Participating institutions include Baker CI (Sanderson), Columbia CI (Lake City), Charlotte CI (Punta Gorda), DeSoto Annex (Arcadia), Lancaster CI (Trenton), Lowell CI (Ocala), Liberty CI (Bristol) and Tomoka CI (Daytona Beach).