2025 Annual Meeting
October 15 – 18, 2025
Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel
Oklahoma City, OK
The Masonry Society’s Annual Meeting features TMS committee meetings, educational sessions, and opportunities to network with other masonry professionals.
Educational Sessions
Thursday, October 16th
8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Session 1 – Professional Practice & Case Studies
8:00 – 9:20 AM (1.5 CEUs)
- Elegant Resistance: The Art and Engineering of Collapse-Resistant Masonry – Heather Sustersic
- Ghost Buildings – Alan Pettingale
- Ramove Theatre Renewed – Restoring a Community Center – Rachel Will
Session 2 – Innovations in Masonry Design
9:20 – 10:10 AM (1 CEU)
- Modeling the Past: Digital Design Tools for Masonry Restoration – Casey Williams
- Delegated Design of Masonry – A Paradigm Shift – Jamie Davis
Session 3 – Integrating Research into Practice
10:25 – 11:40 AM (1.25 CEUs)
- Findings from a Survey on Current Practices for Masonry Beam Design & Construction – Ece Erdogmus
- Raising Code Limits on Specified Reinforcement Strength by Adoption of High-Strength Steel Bars (HSRBs) in Structural Masonry – Dimitrios Kalliontzis
- Influence of Shelf Angle Orientations, Connections, and Ties on the Serviceability of Masonry Veneer Systems – Cory Scott
Session 4 – Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future
11:40 AM – 12:30 PM (1 CEU)
- Permeable Insulating Plasters for Historic Envelopes – Mario Machnicki
- Building Momentum: The Concrete Masonry Checkoff and the Future of the Industry – Riley Dvorak
Designing masonry structures for progressive collapse resistance can feel like being handed a blank map—despite masonry’s intrinsic ability to resist wall removals through arching action, there’s a surprising lack of published examples or detailing guidance available for practicing engineers. This presentation outlines one engineer’s design approach for a four-story load-bearing CMU building following UFC 4-023-01, Design of Buildings to Resist Progressive Collapse. It reviews what limited resources are available, what was ultimately relied on, and where current documentation falls short. Topics include the applicability (or not) of ASCE 41 Chapter 11, strut-and-tie modeling, deep beam theory, and finite element analysis. Practical details for continuity will be shared to help others facing similar design challenges, in the absence of established best practices.
Mrs. Sustersic, P.E., is a practicing structural engineer with Colby Company Engineering in Portland, Maine, experienced in the design of new buildings, complex renovations, sculptures, and specialty engineering projects, as well as performing condition assessments of existing building structures for commercial and federal clients. A former adjunct faculty member in the Architectural Engineering Department at The Pennsylvania State University, Mrs. Sustersic taught Design of Masonry Structures and Indeterminate Analysis courses, while also advising senior architectural engineering students in their thesis work. Her research areas included engineering education and modeling the tornado-building interaction using combined computational fluid dynamics and finite element analysis. More recent research efforts relate to the CANUS harmonization project and leading the Existing Masonry Standards Committee. Mrs. Sustersic serves on the Board of Directors for TMS, is Chair of the Reinforcement and Connectors subcommittee to TMS 402 and is a voting member of the TMS 402 Main committee, the Structural Members subcommittee, the TMS 402 Executive committee, the Existing Masonry Committee, and the Meetings subcommittee. She is also the Existing Masonry Standards Committee Chair.
Ghost buildings are historic masonry structures where original walls or outlines remain standing but no longer serve a structural or enclosed function—often the remnants of demolished buildings or partially collapsed facades. These structures are prone to instability due to age, lack of support, and exposure to environmental forces. Repair strategies focus on preserving their historic fabric while improving safety. Lateral restraint anchors are key in stabilizing free-standing walls. These anchors tie unstable masonry back to existing floor joists, roof structures, or new internal frames, preventing out-of-plane movement. Anchors are often installed with minimal disruption and concealed for visual integrity.
Alan Pettingale is a master masonry restoration specialist with over 30 years of hands-on experience preserving historic buildings across the UK and the United States. Renowned for his deep knowledge of traditional methods and innovative stabilization techniques, Alan has become a trusted authority in the field, working alongside structural engineers, architects, contractors, and preservationists to develop tailored repair strategies for aging and heritage masonry structures.
Alan is the founder of Specialized Masonry Restoration, where he combines Old World craftsmanship with modern engineering insight to tackle complex structural problems—from cavity wall tie failures and bowing facades to cracked lintels and bulging masonry walls. He is the inventor of the Brit-Tie system, a patented stainless steel wall tie replacement solution that addresses corroding wall ties in veneer and cavity wall construction with minimal disruption and maximum effectiveness.
Through his platform alanpettingale.com, Alan provides technical consulting, continuing education, and field training to support the next generation of restoration professionals. He is also the founder and editor of Masonry Restoration Magazine, and the host of the BrickTalk.Live podcast, where he interviews experts and shares real-world lessons from the field. His upcoming project, the Masonry Restoration Academy, will offer CEU-certified courses, workshops, and online training to elevate standards in the industry.
A frequent speaker at events like the World of Concrete, Alan is known for making complex concepts approachable—whether through live demonstrations, technical illustrations, or on-site problem-solving. With a passion for preserving the structural and cultural integrity of our built environment, Alan continues to lead the charge in redefining what’s possible in masonry restoration.
Adaptive reuse of existing buildings is an effective strategy to enhance sustainability and resilience within the built environment. This presentation will address methodologies for assessing and repairing the exterior envelope of existing buildings, specifically focusing on masonry facades within adaptive reuse projects. Using the Ramova Theater project as a case study, an interdisciplinary team consisting of the facade repair designer and the project manager from masonry contractor will present best practices for successful masonry repair. The discussion will emphasize the importance of establishing general parameters during the investigation and design phases, which are then refined during construction. Furthermore, the presentation will highlight the flexibility required in repair methodologies to meet owners’ expectations and financial limitations, and the collaborative efforts between contractors and architects/engineers to achieve project goals, schedules, and budgets.
Rachel Will, PE is a Principal and Executive Director of Knowledge Sharing with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. in Chicago. She has nearly 20 years of experience related to the investigation and repair of historic building facades. She has performed numerous evaluations, prepared repair documents along with provided construction period observations for many of historic masonry (stone, brick, and terra cotta) facades as a part of adaptive reuse projects. She has authored multiple articles and given numerous presentations related to masonry, adaptive reuse and historic preservation.
Mark Kuberski is a Vice President and partner with Central Building and Preservation since 2005. As an expert in building materials, structural systems, and design of historic buildings and has been responsible for numerous masonry facade restoration projects in Chicago. His current responsibilities include estimating, planning and supervising masonry restoration projects throughout Chicago. He frequently consults with project architects and engineers to solve complex structural and architectural problems associated with deteriorated building facades. With his unique background on both the engineering and contracting sides of construction, Mark has given numerous presentations to various professional organizations on a Contractor’s perspective to engineering solutions for historic masonry projects.
Digital modeling tools have typically had limited use in masonry restoration. However, these tools, which can produce detailed, coordinated 3D models, are beneficial in restoration, allowing the team to anticipate challenges and complete construction coordination before mobilizing. While hidden conditions can hinder the model’s effectiveness, some restoration projects can benefit from 3D models.
The team used such tools at The First Church of Christ, Scientist Church facade restoration. This presentation will contrast the traditional approach used at the semi-domes with the digitally driven design-model-build process for the cupola. There, the design team developed a digital model, used for fabrication and quality control, due to time constraints, challenging access, and lessons learned at the semi-domes. This presentation will discuss the collaborative process, model development, digital mockups, quality control strategies, and how digital fabrication streamlined construction.
Casey Williams brings extensive experience, having investigated and developed repairs for a wide variety of building enclosure systems, including historic masonry, contemporary masonry-veneer wall systems, roofing, windows, plazas, wall systems, and waterproofing systems. Her projects range from condition assessments to comprehensive restoration design and construction administration, and consulting on new construction. Casey focuses on historic building investigations and repair projects. Some of her signature projects include the New York State Capital roof restoration, Massachusetts State water infiltration repair project, and the exterior restoration of The First Church of Christ, Scientist Mother Church, Boston Symphony Hall facade restoration, and ongoing work at the Tanglewood.
This presentation explores the possibilities of pushing masonry to a delegated design workflow, similar to cold-formed and precast.
For years the masonry industry has been plagued by lack of education and experience in the proper design of masonry systems. Other industries, such as cold-formed framing, deal with the same issues, however, they have adopted a delegated design workflow where the bulk of the in-depth design is performed during construction phase by designers that are highly experienced. This presentation will explore how this workflow could be used for masonry and initiatives that are underway to promote this paradigm shift in the industry.
Jamie Davis, P.E., LEED AP, is President and Principal of Ryan Biggs Clark Davis Engineering DPC, a 50-person consulting engineering firm located in Clifton Park and Skaneateles, New York. With the firm for over 30 years, Jamie manages many of the firm’s higher education, healthcare, and municipal projects, and her areas of technical expertise include BIM, masonry design and restoration, and investigations and studies of existing buildings. She is currently Vice President for the TMS Board of Directors, is a voting member on TMS 402/602 Main Committee, is the past chair and current member of the TMS BIM-M Committee and is a current voting member on the TMS 402/602 Structural members, Reinforcement and Connectors, and Construction Requirements Subcommittees. She is also a member of the Mason Contractors Association of America, the American Society of Civil Engineers, the American Concrete Institute, the American Institute of Steel Construction, and sits on several committees for the American Council of Engineering Companies of New York. Jamie is a frequent lecturer and author on masonry topics.
Phil Ledent is the executive director of the Masonry Institute of Michigan where he provides technical support to the A/E/C community. Phil has taught structural masonry design at Lawrence Technological University and the University of Toledo, and he currently serves on the board of directors for The Masonry Society and as the secretary for the TMS 402/602 code. Phil is a licensed professional engineer and structural engineer, and he managed the structural department at an A/E firm prior to joining the MIM. Phil lives in Lansing, Michigan with his wife, Emily, and their two sons, Jaime and Julien.
This presentation explores the possibilities of pushing masonry to a delegated design workflow, similar to cold-formed and precast.
For years the masonry industry has been plagued by lack of education and experience in the proper design of masonry systems. Other industries, such as cold-formed framing, deal with the same issues, however, they have adopted a delegated design workflow where the bulk of the in-depth design is performed during construction phase by designers that are highly experienced. This presentation will explore how this workflow could be used for masonry and initiatives that are underway to promote this paradigm shift in the industry.
Ece Erdogmus, PhD, PE, is a Professor and Dean of the College of Architecture, Art, and Construction at Clemson University. She is a fellow member of TMS and a voting member of TMS 402/602. Erdogmus has an interdisciplinary background with degrees both in Architecture and Structural Engineering, and has contributed to masonry research and education for 25 years.
Laura Redmond, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Glenn Department of Civil Engineering Department at Clemson University. She is the Editor of the TMS Journal, voting member of TMS 402/602, and has contributed to masonry research for many years.
In the United States, the adoption of high-strength non-prestressed reinforcing bars (HSRBs) in design was initiated by the reinforced concrete industry through ACI 318. The adoption was motivated by several factors including the ability to increase bar spacings, reduce steel congestion, reduce construction materials and costs, and minimize the building carbon footprint. It appears that this trend is continuing with the increasing availability of reinforcement of higher grades, making it imperative that the masonry industry be able to adapt. The University of Houston has embarked on a research program to investigate the feasibility of HSRBs in structural masonry design. This presentation provides an overview of this program and current findings. So far, the program has completed a series of laboratory tests to evaluate existing TMS 402/602-22 provisions on lap-splice length and flexural design. Lap-splice tests indicated the need to incorporate a reinforcement grade factor of 1.15 for Grade 80 bars in the existing provisions. Lap-splice tests also showed the need to revisit the accuracy of the reinforcement size factor, as it is conservative for smaller and liberal for larger bar diameters. Out-of-plane wall tests were used to evaluate the flexural behavior of masonry walls with longitudinal HSRBs. The test results indicated that TMS 402/602-22 can provide satisfactory estimates of nominal strength with sufficient conservatism with respect to the experimental responses. Findings also showed that reductions in reinforcing material costs can reach 25% by using Grade 80 versus Grade 60 bars.
Dr. Dimitrios Kalliontzis is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Houston and TMS member. He has nearly 9 years of experience in the analysis and design of masonry structures with research contributions in the area of innovative reinforced masonry walls and high-strength steel. Dr. Kalliontzis has been the author of several conference and journal publications featuring innovations in masonry design. His publications entitled “Simplified approach for estimating the envelope response of unbonded posttensioned masonry shear walls” and “Structural masonry walls with rubber pads and unbonded post-tensioning tendons: Experiment and Design procedure” have been acknowledged by the 13th and 14th Canadian Masonry Symposiums, respectively, with Honorable Mentions. Over the past two years, he has led research efforts to generate much needed data for the adoption of high-strength steel in TMS 402/602. He is a voting member of the TMS Reinforcement & Connectors Subcommittee and the TMS Research Committee.
Masonry veneer walls are an attractive cladding option due to their aesthetics, durability, fire resistance, and thermal efficiency. As masonry veneer walls provide a long service life, the shelf angles must satisfy strict deflection limits. Yet current provisions treat the shelf angle as an isolated steel element and ignore the restraining action of veneer ties. It is believed that the ties play a noteworthy role in limiting deflection. This experimental study aims to establish how variations in tie type, backup wall construction, and shelf‑angles influence deflection and load transfer. To assess the impact, twenty‑eight specimens were built and tested with cyclic and monotonic loading schemes. To isolate tie contribution, three backup wall and tie types where assessed with six different shelf‑angle configurations. LVDTs, inclinometers, and strain gauges captured the impact. Results of the experimental testing indicated a significant increase in stiffness and are presented.
Cory Scott is a graduate of the University of Alberta with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and is currently pursuing a master’s in Structural Engineering at the same institution. Drawing on extensive carpentry and construction experience, Cory brings a hands‑on perspective to experimental research in masonry systems. This practical background proved especially valuable when building the test specimens for their ongoing study; the only aspect subcontracted was the placement of the masonry veneer itself. Through this blend of academic rigor and real‑world construction knowledge, Cory seeks to advance masonry design practices that balance structural efficiency and field‑friendly implementation.
Historic buildings are a popular target for redevelopment into occupied spaces like residential, office or commercial space. Many of these buildings have multi-wythe solid masonry walls that need to be cleaned in preparation for adaptation, often with destructive methods like sand blasting and chemical stripping. This can damage the surface of the wall, leaving it open to increased moisture transmission.
In order to retain a stable and durable envelope wall, the existing masonry needs to be consolidated and left permeable to allow controlled vapor transmission through the envelope. Permeable insulating plasters combine vapor permeable binders with insulating aggregates. Popular permeable binders include limes and pozzolans. Insulating aggregates include organic aggregates like hemp and cork, and mineral aggregates like expanded glass and pumice. These materials have the right combination of performance characteristics to make them ideal for use in restoration and adaptation.
Mario Machnicki is the president and founder of US Heritage Group. With over 35 years of masonry building and restoration experience and extensive training in the US and abroad, he is one of the country’s foremost masonry experts.
This presentation introduces the Concrete Masonry Checkoff, a first-of-its-kind industry initiative created to drive demand for locally produced concrete masonry products. Attendees will gain insight into the Checkoff’s mission, organizational structure, and strategic priorities. With over $14 million invested to date, the Checkoff supports programs across six critical focus areas: Educating Design Professionals, University Relations, Marketing, Codes & Standards, Design Assistance, and Industry Outreach. Each of these areas contributes to the broader goal of strengthening the industry and ensuring concrete masonry remains a preferred solution in modern construction. Learn how these efforts are shaping the future of concrete masonry and how you can get involved.
Riley is a graduate of Minnesota State University Mankato with a BS in Civil Engineering and is a registered PE in Minnesota. He is the Design Director for the Checkoff’s National Design Assistance program called the Block Design Collective. Prior to his role with the Checkoff Riley had 10 years of experience as a technical representative for a precast concrete manufacturer, calling on designers and decision makers, providing technical assistance, coordinating presentations and tours, attending conferences, and assisting with specification development. Riley and his wife, Jamee, reside in Prior Lake Minnesota with their 4 young boys.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Masonry Society’s Annual Meeting brings together engineers, architects, educators, students, and industry professionals for education, collaboration, and community. This year’s event will feature technical sessions, TMS committee meetings (including TMS 402/602), networking events, and the Student Masonry Bridge Competition. Sponsorship provides visibility before, during, and after the event and demonstrates your support for advancing masonry.
Customized sponsorships available upon request.
All Sponsors Receive:
- Company logo and link on the TMS website.
- Recognition in TMS newsletters and meeting communications.
- Logo in printed meeting materials and event signage.
- Logo included in pre-session slide decks.
- Recognition during meeting announcements (as appropriate).
- Social media mention (group thank-you post).
- Sponsor ribbon for registered attendees.
Tiered Sponsorship Levels
A La Carte & Event Sponsorships
The following options provide targeted visibility and are ideal for sponsors seeking focused engagement.
Additional Ways to Support TMS
At checkout, attendees and supporters will have the opportunity to contribute to two important initiatives:
- Women in Masonry Fund – Support participation of women in masonry committee meetings, research and events
- Clayford T. Grimm Scholarship Fund – Support graduate-level research in masonry.
Suggested contribution levels: $25 / $50 / $100 / Other (minimum $25)
Your contribution helps TMS invest in the next generation of masonry professionals and support inclusive participation in our events.
Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel
Set in the Bricktown district, this upscale hotel is across the street from the Cox Convention Center and 6 minutes’ walk from Chesapeake Energy Arena.
Free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs are offered in the warm, stylish rooms and suites, as are coffeemakers and minifridges. Club level quarters provide access to a lounge with complimentary continental breakfast, all-day snacks and afternoon appetizers.
A cafe serves breakfast and lunch, and there’s a hip Southern-style restaurant and a bar. Other amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool and a 24/7 fitness center, as well as 17 event rooms and a business center. Parking is offered for a fee.
Hotel Room Reservations
| TMS Room Block Rate | Reservation Deadline |
|---|---|
| $159.00 per night (Standard Run of House Room) | Monday, September 22, 2025 |
Use the link below to make your reservation, or call 1-800-325-3535 and give the operator the group code: EB3 The Masonry Society.
Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel
1 N Broadway Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Travel Information
Airport
Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) – Located approximately 11 miles from downtown Oklahoma City and the Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel. Typical drive time is 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.
Ground Transportation
1. Airport Express (Taxi & Shuttle Service)
From the Airport: No advance reservation required. Shuttle vans and taxis are available outside the lower-level baggage claim area.
To the Airport: Requires a 24-hour advance reservation.
Book online: www.airportexpressokc.com
Phone: 405-681-3311
Visit the website for fare estimates and service details.
2. Rideshare (Uber or Lyft)
Uber and Lyft operate from Will Rogers World Airport. Download the app on your iPhone or Android device prior to arrival.
3. Ride Sharing with Other Attendees
Consider coordinating with fellow meeting attendees to share a ride, especially on your return trip, to reduce your transportation costs.
TMS Student Masonry Competition
The Masonry Society (TMS) is pleased to host a Student Masonry Competition as part of its 2025 Annual Meeting. This hands-on learning opportunity is made possible through support from the NCMA Education and Research Foundation.
In addition to participating in the masonry competition, students will have the opportunity to interact with masonry professionals from across the U.S. and abroad, attend technical presentations, and sit in committee meetings including the TMS 402/602 Masonry Building Code and Specification committee meetings.
About the Competition
Students from different schools will be assigned to teams at the meeting. Each team will be asked to construct a masonry bridge to meet a set of specified constraints using provided reduced-scale concrete blocks and fast setting mortar. The masonry bridges will be evaluated based on:
- Workmanship
- Innovation in conceptual design
- Failure load
- Failure load to weight ratio
In addition, each team will be asked to provide a presentation on how using actual concrete masonry materials and construction methods would differ from those used in the construction of the scaled bridge.
Eligibility
Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to participate in the competition. Students do not need to have completed masonry coursework – only that they have an interest in learning more about masonry.
Travel Support
Students are encouraged to work with their faculty to contact local masonry industry representatives for possible support to cover the costs to travel to the TMS Annual Meeting.
Schedule Highlights
- October 14: Arrive in time for the required 5:00 PM Competition Orientation
- October 16: Awards Ceremony at the TMS 402/602 Dinner
Space is limited. To express interest in participating, please complete the short sign-up form below. Submission does not guarantee selection. Selected participants will be notified directly by TMS.
Tours
More information will be posted soon
Bricktown
This former warehouse district, surrounded by an abundance of historic red-brick warehouses and streets, has been transformed into a lively entertainment district with restaurants, an eclectic mix of shops, nightlife and entertainment options.
Bricktown is just one-half mile from the Sheraton. Visit bricktownokc.com for a full list of dining options and things to do.
Bricktown Water Taxi
Cruise along the Bricktown canal with a 40-minute trip on the Bricktown Water Taxi. The tour will take you from the eastern edge of downtown all the way to the northern edge of the Oklahoma River while the tour guide narrates points of interest along the way.
Explore Museums
Bricktown is home to several notable museums, including the American Banjo Museum, the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, and the First Americans Museum.
The First Americans Museum provides collective histories of Oklahoma’s 39 distinctive First American Nations and showcases state-of-the-art exhibitions in First American history, culture and art, as well as a full-service restaurant presenting unique Native-inspired cuisine.
The American Banjo Museum is dedicated to the history of the banjo and features exhibits documenting the rise of the banjo from its arrival in North America to modern times.
The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame is a one of a kind facility honoring hundreds of great Oklahoma athletes. The museum highlights Oklahoma’s greatest athlete, Jim Thorpe, in particular.
Things to Do in OKC
While Bricktown is just a short walk from the hotel, the rest of Oklahoma City offers many other unique experiences of its own. Below are some of the most recommended adventures. Go to visitokc.com to see all that OKC has to offer.
Factory Obscura
An Oklahoma City-based art collective creating immersive experiences that awaken wonder, build community and make the world better. Factory Obscura is a group of imaginative individuals who come together to create captivating experiences.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
One of Oklahoma City’s most beautiful and vibrant garden and park spaces offering visitors a 15-acre natural escape in the heart of downtown. Free and open to the public
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum tells the diverse stories of the West with some of the world’s most beautiful Western art, a full-scale town and a room with over a thousand different barbed wires! An outdoor educational experience called Liichokoshkomo’ (Chickasaw for “Let’s Play!”) brings to life diverse stories of cattlemen and their counterparts with interactive fun. Cowboys from the cinematic landscape share space with those who had their boots on the ground at this premier institution.
Scissortail Park
Oklahoma City’s 70-acre urban oasis, extending from the core of downtown to the shore of the Oklahoma River. Stroll through the gardens and groves, relax on the lawn, catch a concert or live performance, and get on the water with pedal boat, kayak and standup board rentals from the Boathouse. Lower Scissortail Park is all about recreation, including basketball, soccer, futsal and pickleball, as well as a new sports pavilion and 32 acres of open green space.