The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) proudly welcomes Rick Muth, Chairman of ORCO Block & Hardscape, as one of the newest inductees into the CMHA Hall of Fame.
Rick was honored on February 3 during CMHA’s third Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana. His induction marks a historic milestone, as he and his father, Pete Muth, become the first father-son duo to receive this prestigious recognition. Pete Muth, who served as NCMA Chair in 1966, was also previously inducted into the Hall of Fame.
CMHA’s Hall of Fame Award is reserved for industry leaders whose careers have been marked by significant contributions to the industry and unwavering dedication to CMHA’s highest values. Rick Muth embodies this legacy through his lifelong commitment to concrete masonry, family business leadership, and industry advocacy.
A Legacy of Leadership & Innovation
Like many of CMHA’s Hall of Famers, Rick grew up in the family business, learning the value of hard work from an early age. After earning a marketing degree from the University of Southern California (USC) in 1972, he pursued a master’s degree at Chapman University while playing a key role in ORCO’s expansion. Under his leadership, ORCO became an industry leader, recognized for innovation, quality, and commitment to serving the growing needs of Southern California.
Beyond his business success, Rick has been a dedicated champion for the industry. In 1995, he was elected Chairman of the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), following in the footsteps of his father. Together, they hold the distinction of being the only father-son leaders in NCMA history and now, the only father-son members of the CMHA Hall of Fame.
Commitment to Education, Research, and Giving Back
A strong advocate for education and industry advancement, Rick played a pivotal role in establishing a named chair at Chapman University and has been a long-time supporter of providing ORCO customers with Chapman’s annual Economic Forecast, ensuring business leaders stay informed on market trends.
His dedication to advocating for family-owned businesses also led him to found the Small Business and Family Business Forum in 1995, an initiative that remains a thriving part of the organization today.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Today, as Chairman of ORCO, Rick continues to mentor the next generation, including his daughters, who are actively shaping the company’s future. His leadership and commitment to education, philanthropy, and industry innovation have left an enduring mark on ORCO and the entire concrete masonry community.
Reflecting on Rick’s impact, Greg Gibbel, President of the Masonry Division and Chief Sales & Marketing Officer for The QUIKRETE Companies, paid tribute during the ceremony, stating:
“Rick has been an amazing mentor. He showed me how you can balance work and personal life all at the same time. I am honored to call him my friend.”
“ORCO has been a member of this association for 65 years. There have been many highs and lows in that time, but their commitment to this industry has never wavered.”
“Rick takes great pride in having founded the CMHA Family Business Forum in 1995, which remains a vital part of this organization today.”
A Grateful Acknowledgment
In accepting the award, Rick Muth expressed his gratitude:
“Greg, I really appreciate that introduction. Thank you for the kind words and for all the decades we’ve been friends. It has been wonderful.”
“I have truly enjoyed working with the staff and members of this organization, past, present, and future. I’ve always wanted to help and create something that would last. It was a great pleasure to attend the family business meeting today [the 30th]. I’m truly honored. God bless all of you.”
With a career defined by resilience, leadership, and service, Rick Muth’s induction into the CMHA Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his lifelong commitment to the industry.