Should I Become a Mason?
A Mason, also known as a Bricklayer or Blocklayer, is an essential expert in the construction industry. They are the builders who give buildings, homes, and structures their shape and strength. Masons use brick, concrete blocks, natural stones, and artificial stones to construct walls, partitions, fireplaces, and other architectural structures. They create and read blueprints, prepare the construction site, and work with mortar and grout. It's a blend of creativity, precision, and physical strength, which brings a gratifying sense of accomplishment as you literally see what you've built at the end of the day.
A career as a Mason can be incredibly rewarding. It's a profession that allows you to build tangible, long-lasting structures that will stand for years, even generations. Masonry work provides a great mix of indoor and outdoor work, keeping the job fresh and exciting. Also, there's a high demand for Masons, and the pay is often superior to other trades. A career in masonry also allows for flexibility in terms of being self-employed or working for a company. It's a profession that offers tangible results, financial stability, and the chance to leave a lasting legacy in the form of the structures you create.
Hottest Areas for Mason Jobs
Common Interview Questions for a Mason
Job Openings for Mason
What Does a Mason Do?
A Mason, often referred to as a Brick Mason or Stone Mason, is a skilled artisan who works with a variety of materials such as brick, concrete, and natural stone to construct and repair structures. These professionals are responsible for tasks such as measuring and cutting materials, mixing mortar or grout, and laying bricks or other Masonry units to construct structures like walls, walkways, and fences. Their daily routine can also encompass reading blueprints, making calculations, and ensuring the quality and integrity of the structures they build.
What sets a Mason apart from other roles in the construction industry is their specific focus on Masonry-based construction and repair, which can range from building a brick wall to restoring a historical monument. They bring to the construction team a specialized skill set that involves both manual labor and artistic precision, contributing significantly to the structural and aesthetic aspects of a construction project. Therefore, a Mason's role is vital in both residential and commercial sectors as they help shape the structural identity of homes, buildings, and communities. Their expertise in Masonry complements the skills of carpenters, electricians, and plumbers, to facilitate the creation of comprehensive and sturdy constructions.
Mason Qualifications & Career Path
If you're interested in becoming a Mason, there are several important skills and qualifications you'll need to succeed in the construction industry. First and foremost, physical stamina and strength are critical as Masons frequently lift and work with heavy materials. Additionally, a keen eye for detail, excellent hand-eye coordination, and mathematical skills are vital for measuring, cutting, and arranging materials. Lastly, although not required, being able to read and interpret blueprints can give you a competitive edge in this field.
Before becoming a Mason, you might start as a construction laborer or helper to gain practical experience. Alternatively, you could work as a bricklayer or cement Mason, which will provide specific skills applicable to a Mason's role. Most Masons learn the trade through apprenticeships, which typically last 3-4 years and combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Some may also choose to attend a technical school, obtaining a diploma, certificate, or associate's degree in Masonry. Furthermore, certain states require Masons to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state but generally involve passing a trade exam and demonstrating a certain level of work experience.
Other Career Titles
Here are some other career titles that require similar skills