Young Mason is Recognized by Many

At just 24 years of age, Austin Rising already is known by many people in Central Kansas as both a fine young man and a fine young mason. A graduate of North Central Kansas Technical College in Beloit, Kan., Rising was called to our attention by Brad Wise of Salina Concrete Products in Salina, Kan.

Rising was the first-place winner in the post-secondary division of the 2006 National Masonry Contest. Held in conjunction with the National SkillsUSA Leadership Conference, the contest is conducted each June in Kansas City, Mo. He was co-sponsored in the contest by the Kansas Masonry Industries Council (KMIC) and his new employer at the time, Conco Construction of Wichita, Kan.

In high school, Rising was well known as one of the state's best wrestlers, twice placing second in his weight class in the state championship competitions. When not studying or practicing, he was fishing or breaking horses.

Although Rising enjoys these athletic and recreational pursuits, his future definitely includes masonry. "I really like the company [Conco Construction] I work for. They've been very good to me," Rising said. "It's been a good first-year experience, especially because the other guys on the crews have been helpful in teaching me more about what I need to know on the job."

"I like what I do. I like the company," Rising added. "So I guess I'll keep laying brick and keep getting better."

His employer seems pleased to learn that. Conco supervisor Chris Goevert said, "It's refreshing to find young people [who are] enthusiastic about the construction industry, and Austin is an example of that."

"It is obvious that his training at North Central Kansas Technical College has given him a great foundation to be an excellent mason, and his desire is outstanding," Goevert added.