MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 28 Recap: Kendall Anderegg, President and CEO at Mutual Materials Company Words: Justin StengelKendall Andergg's journey in the masonry industry is a remarkable tale of legacy, innovation, and community impact. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Kendall's family business has been a staple in the industry since its founding in 1900. Now celebrating its 125th anniversary, this fifth-generation enterprise serves a wide range of regions, including Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and parts of British Columbia.Kendall, who holds degrees from the University of Washington, initially honed her business acumen in the tech world at Intel. However, the allure of the family legacy was strong, drawing him back to the masonry business. The Andergg family, unlike many others, did not frequently discuss business at home, which Kendall sees as both a pro and a con. Nonetheless, his genuine interest in business and the craft of masonry made the transition natural.Central to the Andergg mission is "Building beauty that lasts," a philosophy Kendall emphasizes to her teams. She takes pride in reminding employees of their significant role in shaping communities, fostering a sense of pride and purpose in their work.Running a family business is about more than just maintaining a legacy. Kendall stresses the importance of blending tradition with strong business practices, aiming for growth, opportunity, and resilience. With 500 employees, the focus remains on business first, ensuring the company's sustainability across generations.The masonry industry has evolved significantly over the past two decades, and Kendall has witnessed these changes firsthand. The explosion of hardscape and the diversification of products like clay bricks and concrete have redefined the industry. Kendall highlights the creative potential now available in masonry, which might be surprising to those outside the field.Kendall's involvement in industry associations such as the ICPI, NCMA, and their eventual merger into the CMHA, underscores her commitment to collaboration and industry improvement. She values the leadership skills developed through association work, where influencing without direct control presents unique challenges and opportunities for personal growth.Looking forward, Kendall is passionate about training the next generation of skilled workers, emphasizing the importance of trade education. She advocates for integrating trades into education systems, recognizing the diverse opportunities available in fields like masonry and plumbing.Safety has also seen advancements, thanks in part to partnerships with agencies like OSHA. Kendall appreciates the industry's shift towards viewing these organizations as partners in promoting workplace safety.Effective communication is crucial in implementing safety regulations. The Andergg business uses varied channels, including daily huddles and newsletters, to ensure that safety and business goals are clearly conveyed to all employees.Outside of work, Kendall enjoys outdoor adventures, reflecting her values of independence and achievement. His hobbies, like ski touring, mirror his professional ethos—taking on challenges and navigating them with determination.As Kendall looks to the future, her focus is on cultivating new leaders within the company and the industry. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and open dialogue, breaking down silos to foster innovation and problem-solving.Kendall finds inspiration in industry events, valuing the networking and learning opportunities they provide. The collaborative spirit of these associations aligns with her vision for a united and progressive masonry industry.Kendall Andergg's story is a testament to the power of blending tradition with modern innovation. Her dedication to building enduring beauty, fostering industry collaboration, and nurturing future leaders ensures that his family's legacy in masonry will continue to thrive for generations to come._______Tune into the MASONRY STRONG Podcast every other Thursday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.About: The MASONRY STRONG Podcast
