Masonry, Building, & Trades

Brick masons are craftspeople who construct walls, partitions, fireplaces, chimneys, and other structures from brick, concrete and cinder block, tile, and stone. Bricklaying requires careful, accurate work so that the structure has a neat and uniform appearance; is aligned with windows, doors, and other openings; thus preventing excessive waste and cutting. Craftspeople in this trade use the following tools: chisels, trowels, jointers, gauge lines, plumb bobs, and mason’s levels. Helpers, who supply the mason with bricks, mix mortar, and set up/move scaffolding, usually assist bricklayers. Masons and bricklayers work on both new building construction and remodeling projects. Recipients of Standard Certificates from this program receive instruction that provides various opportunities to gain masonry/bricklaying skills and to practice these skills in practical situations. Employment opportunities are strong for certificate recipients in this program, both locally and nationwide due to the need for new construction and renovation.

Awards Offered: Certificate, Standard Short Certificate, Short Certificate in Advanced Masonry

Career Outlook: Employment of masonry workers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Although employment growth will vary by occupation, growth will depend on the number of commercial, public, and civil construction projects such as new roads, bridges, and buildings.

Employment of brick masons and block masons is projected to grow 19 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Population growth will result in the construction of more schools, hospitals, apartment buildings, and other structures, many of which are made of brick and block. In addition, masons will be needed to restore a growing number of brick buildings. Although expensive, brick exteriors should remain popular, reflecting a preference for low-maintenance, durable exterior materials.

Employment of cement masons and concrete finishers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. More cement masons will be needed to build and renovate highways, bridges, factories, and residential structures in order to meet the demands of a growing population and to make repairs to aging infrastructure.

The use of concrete for buildings is increasing because its strength is an important asset in areas prone to severe weather. For example, residential construction projects in Florida are using more concrete as building requirements change in reaction to the increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes. The use of concrete is likely to expand into other hurricane-prone areas as the durability of Florida homes built with concrete becomes more established.

Employment of segmental pavers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. Segmental pavers install a wide variety of durable walkway and driveway material options that are in demand.