How to Become a Mason: A Step-by-Step Career Guide
If you’re wondering how to become a mason, you’re considering a rewarding career in one of the world’s oldest and most respected trades. Masons (also called bricklayers or stone masons) build structures using bricks, concrete blocks, and natural stones – skills that remain in high demand. This comprehensive guide walks you through the education, training, certification, and career advancement paths for becoming a professional mason.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Mason?
- Different Types of Masons
- Steps to Become a Mason
- Masonry Apprenticeship Programs
- Masonry Certification and Licensing
- Masonry Career Outlook and Salary
- Essential Skills for Successful Masons
- Conclusion: Starting Your Masonry Career
What Is a Mason?
A mason is a skilled tradesperson who works with brick, block, stone, and concrete to construct or repair walls, walkways, fireplaces, and other structures. Masons read blueprints, measure and cut materials, mix mortar, and use specialized tools to create durable, aesthetically pleasing structures.
Different Types of Masons
There are several masonry specialties to consider when learning how to become a mason:
- Bricklayers: Specialize in brick and block construction
- Stone Masons: Work with natural and artificial stone
- Concrete Masons: Focus on poured concrete structures
- Refractory Masons: Build heat-resistant structures like furnaces
- Restoration Masons: Repair and preserve historic masonry
Steps to Become a Mason
Follow these key steps when pursuing how to become a mason:
- Complete basic education: Earn a high school diploma or GED
- Develop foundational skills: Take shop, math, and drafting classes
- Gain experience: Work as a mason tender or helper
- Enter an apprenticeship: Complete 3-4 years of paid training
- Obtain certification: Earn voluntary credentials to advance
- Consider specialization: Focus on a masonry niche
- Continue education: Stay current with new techniques
Masonry Apprenticeship Programs
The most common path for how to become a mason is through a registered apprenticeship. These programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Apprenticeship Requirements
- Minimum age of 18 (16 in some programs)
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Pass drug screening and physical exam
- Valid driver’s license often required
What You’ll Learn
During a typical 3-4 year apprenticeship, you’ll master:
- Reading blueprints and technical drawings
- Mixing and applying mortar
- Cutting and shaping materials
- Brick and block laying techniques
- Safety protocols and regulations
- Estimating material quantities
Masonry Certification and Licensing
While most states don’t require masons to be licensed, certifications can boost your career:
Key Certifications
- MCAA Certified Mason: From Mason Contractors Association of America
- ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician: For concrete specialists
- OSHA Safety Certifications: Especially valuable for supervisors
- Historic Masonry Preservation: For restoration specialists
Masonry Career Outlook and Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports:
- Median annual wage: $47,710 (as of 2021)
- Job growth projection: 2% (2019-2029)
- Best-paying industries: Nonresidential building construction
- Highest-paying states: Illinois, New York, New Jersey
Essential Skills for Successful Masons
Beyond technical abilities, top masons need:
- Physical stamina: Ability to lift heavy materials
- Manual dexterity: Precise hand-eye coordination
- Math skills: For measurements and calculations
- Problem-solving: To overcome construction challenges
- Attention to detail: For quality craftsmanship
- Teamwork: Collaboration with other trades
Conclusion: Starting Your Masonry Career
Now that you understand how to become a mason, you can take the first steps toward this stable, hands-on career. Begin by researching apprenticeship programs through organizations like:
- International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers
- Mason Contractors Association of America
- Associated Builders and Contractors
- Local trade schools and community colleges
With dedication to your craft, you can build not just structures, but a fulfilling career that stands the test of time. The masonry profession offers opportunities for advancement to foreman, supervisor, estimator, or even business owner roles.
Ready to start your masonry journey? Contact local contractors or apprenticeship programs today to learn about opportunities in your area.