Mason

Masonry is an industry centered around the management, construction and repair of buildings made from natural stones or bricks - and sometimes even man-made materials that mimic these natural products. Students that wish to build a career in the field of masonry may want to consider enrolling in online courses that explore topics like new home construction, home plan reading, construction mathematics, and identifying and measuring materials. While taking online courses may help learners develop their skills and pursue opportunities within this field, they are typically only used to supplement practical, hands-on learning and experience.

Types of Masons

There are several different types of masons including brick masons, block masons, stone masons, tile and marble setters, and cement masons.

Common Job Duties

Masons perform a wide range of duties, which can vary depending on their employer, the type of projects they work on, and the materials they specialize in. Here are some common job duties for masons.

• Interpret blueprints and specifications
• Lay out and build the foundation of a building
• Build walls, arches, and other structures using bricks, blocks, stones, or tiles
• Apply mortar, sealants, and other materials to join materials together and ensure a durable structure
• Inspect and maintain existing masonry structures
• Estimate the cost of materials and labor for masonry projects
• Manage a team of masons

Industries

Masons can find work in a variety of industries including construction, civil engineering, and mining. They may work for general contractors, specialty contractors, government agencies, or self-employment.

Advancement

Masons can advance their careers by gaining experience, earning certifications, and taking on leadership roles. Some masons may eventually become supervisors, project managers, or business owners.

Education and Training

Most masons learn their trade through an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship programs typically last for three to four years and include a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Some masons may also choose to earn a certificate or degree in masonry from a trade school or community college.

Salary

The median annual wage for masons was $49,380 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,440, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $86,840.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for masons is expected to be good over the next few years. The demand for masons is expected to grow as the construction industry continues to recover from the recent recession. Additionally, the aging population is expected to lead to increased demand for repair and maintenance of existing masonry structures.

Is Formal Education Required?

It depends on the area of the country you live in. Some states require that masons have a formal education, including an apprenticeship program. Other states do not require a formal education, but it may give you a competitive advantage over other candidates. Online courses from reputable institutions can be helpful supplements to a hands-on apprenticeship.

Online Courses

Online courses provide an opportunity for learners of all interests and career backgrounds to gain the skills they need to succeed in this field. Through lecture videos, projects, assignments, quizzes, exams, discussions, and interactive labs, learners can develop the problem-solving and critical thinking skills required of masons. Online courses also offer learners the freedom to progress at their own pace and the flexibility to study from anywhere.

Conclusion

Masonry offers a variety of opportunities for careers within the construction industry. Through formal or informal education, training, and the completion of online courses, learners can gain the skills to pursue this career, and contribute to the building, maintenance, and beauty of homes and cities.