Outgoing MIA President Paul Vigna presented the award during the MIA Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, CA, held in conjunction with StonExpo 2004, the natural stone industry's flagship trade show.

”It came as no surprise to MIA that Joe Kapcheck received several nominations for this lifetime achievement award,” said Vigna. “While he has worked on phenomenal buildings all around the world, Joe has always been genuinely interested in helping others succeed, and his life's work is an inspiration to all. While president of MIA, he gave selflessly of his knowledge and energy, and for that MIA will always be grateful.”

In nominating Kapcheck for the award, Kenneth Krebs of Tennessee Granite & Marble pointed to his “personal drive and love for the business” as well as his dedication to “helping others in the stone industry be successful.” Rich Booms of Booms Stone Co. noted that Kapcheck is widely respected “as a man who is always fair and honest in business and more than generous with his time and knowledge. He is also a great advocate for MIA and excels in communicating the benefits of MIA membership to others.”