The Trowel Trades program consists of a series of planned courses over a three-year period. The program will provide you with the skills, knowledge, and attitude necessary for employment and/or post secondary education in building construction careers. The curriculum includes career orientation, blueprint reading, estimating skills, measuring, and construction design. Job opportunities for masons is expected to be excellent through the next fifteen years, largely due to the numerous openings arising each year as experienced workers leave the occupation due to retirement. The average union bricklayer in the state of Pennsylvania is 47 years old.
Qualities and Characteristics of the Program
If you are · straightforward
· practical
· athletic
· ambitious
· systematic
· creative
If you have
- manual dexterity
- good numeric ability
- the ability to perform physical activities
- the ability to follow oral and written directions
If you like to
- work with hand tools
- see the physical result of your work
- work with building materials
- be outside
- work in a group
You will need
- work boots
- 6 foot brick spacing rule – approximately $16.00
- uniform (recommended)
- personal safety equipment
If you think
- these qualities and characteristics describe YOU
This may be the program you are looking for!
Nature of the Program: Bricklayers and stone masons usually work outdoors. They must be in good physical condition because they often have to lift heavy materials and stand, bend, or kneel for extended periods of time. Many of these workers are self-employed and specialize in contracting small jobs such as patios, walkways, and fireplaces. Bricklayers and stonemasons are primarily employed by building, special trade, or general contractors.
Completion of the Program: Upon completion of the trowel trades program, students should have the qualifications to find employment in home building, remodeling, and industrial construction. Apprenticeship programs are available for the students who want to become journeyman bricklayers. With additional training and experience, students can become supervisors, estimators, building inspectors, or even open their own business.
Related Occupations: Mason tender, bricklayer, block layer, plasterer, stonemason, tile setter, cement finisher, laborer, estimator, private contractor, or sales representative.
