STRUCTURAL MASONRY WEBINAR SERIES

Built on Collaboration: Case Studies in Masonry Design and Construction

Wednesday, June 3, 2026 | 12-1 p.m. Eastern Time
1 LU/HSW

Great masonry projects are built on collaboration. Join us to hear real-world case studies from an engineer, general contractors, and signatory mason contractors showing how teamwork drives success. From delegated design and design-assist strategies to IMI Structural Coalition partnerships, you’ll hear how early engagement and open communication lead to practical structural solutions, faster decision-making, and fewer surprises in the field.

Our panelists will highlight innovative reinforcement layouts, creative veneer support strategies, and digital tools that connect design intent to constructability. Learn how collaboration between designers and builders transforms complex challenges into efficient, resilient, and buildable masonry systems.

Photo ©  Tom Kessler 

Learning Objectives:

• Explore masonry load distribution, movement control, and connection detailing case studies that improve building safety and long-term durability.
• Evaluate masonry design and materials to confirm compliance with safety, code, and resilience standards.
• Discuss successful collaborative projects that enhance design efficiency, reduce rework, and achieve healthier, longer-lasting building envelopes.
• Explain how early collaboration between project team members contributes to safer and more reliable structural performance.
  

About the Speakers

Sam Rubenzer, PE, SE
Structural Engineer, FORSE Consulting

Sam started FORSE in 2010, where he works as a delegated designer for other structural engineers on designs involving steel, concrete, PT concrete, masonry, and wood construction. He often speaks on the topics of software use and best practices in masonry design.

Sam has over 20 years of experience and is a licensed structural engineer (SE) and a professional engineer (PE) in many of the Midwestern states. He has also been a consultant to IMI for the past 10 years.

mark Guetzko
ceo, seedorff holdings, inc.

Mark is CEO of Seedorff Holdings, the parent company of Architectural Wall Systems and Seedorff Masonry. The organization specializes in design-assist and the delivery of high-performance exterior envelopes. In his role as CEO, he is responsible for strategic direction and the creation of alignment within the organization as SMI and AWS work toward their vision to “Build Better”.

Guetzko is a past president of the Masonry Institute of Iowa, former executive board member of the AGC of America, past Chair of the AGC of America Specialty Contractors Council, and a past Board Member and Chairman of the Master Builders of Iowa Associate Council. 

reed Hudson
Partner/Estimator/PM, kiffmeyer, inc.

Reed is a Partner, Estimator, and Project Manager at Kiffmeyer Inc., where he supports project planning, cost estimating, and day-to-day project execution. He brings experience in sales and estimating from his time with Wells Concrete, building a strong foundation in preconstruction and client coordination. Reed holds a degree in Construction Management from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and focuses on delivering practical, well-coordinated project outcomes. 

david greske
CEO, Stretar Masonry and Concrete, Inc. 

David is the CEO of Stretar Masonry and Concrete, a Duluth-based commercial contracting firm with a legacy dating back to 1965. As a second-generation masonry professional, he brings 36 years of field experience and a foundational engineering background from the University of Minnesota Duluth. This background allows David to bridge the gap between complex structural requirements and elite architectural finishing.

Under his leadership, Stretar has maintained its long-standing reputation for high-quality new construction and meticulous restoration work across the region. His approach is defined by "The Engineer's Eye," ensuring that every project, from large-scale commercial builds to the preservation of historic facades, is executed with technical precision and durability. 

Beyond the job site, David is a dedicated stone carver and artist. He specializes in sculpture created from salvaged and reclaimed materials, such as historic limestone, basalt, granite, and laboratory epoxy resin. This unique perspective as both a contractor and an artisan allows him to speak with authority on the lifecycle of materials, the evolution of masonry techniques, and the enduring artistry of the trade. 

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