Cement Mason, Bricklayer and Flooring Workers

Cement Masons and Concrete Workers:

These workers are needed in almost all new construction or renovation projects. They participate in the construction and repair of roads, bridges, homes, commercial properties and other infrastructure projects. Due to population growth and infrastructure that is in need of repair, this occupation is in demand. These workers typically work outside and their work may be interrupted due to poor weather conditions. They lift heavy equipment and materials, are frequently exposed to loud noise, may work on scaffolding, exposed to concrete dust and may be required to work irregular hours to compete projects on time.

Bricklayers and Block Masons:

Bricklayers and Block Masons build and repair various brick and block materials found on the exterior of structures. They mix mortar, use a variety of hand tools and power tools, read construction documents and blueprints, work on scaffolding, are exposed to construction dust, lift heavy tools and materials and may be required to work irregular hours to complete projects on time. This skilled trades occupation is in demand due to population growth and structures that are in need of repair.

Tile/Marble/Stone:

Decorative flooring workers use various materials and methods to install and repair floor tile, marble and stone. These workers frequently bend, work on their knees and lift heavy materials.  Also, they are frequently exposed to dust from cutting, grinding, drilling and sanding various building materials. These flooring workers may work irregular hours to complete projects on time.

Terrazzo:

Terrazzo flooring is a common flooring that is found in commercial facilities such as schools and hospitals. Terrazzo workers work in similar environments as flooring workers that are working with tile, marble, stone and concrete. These workers frequently bend, work on their knees and lift heavy materials.  Also, they are frequently exposed to dust from cutting, grinding, drilling and sanding various building materials. These flooring workers may work irregular hours to complete projects on time.

Carpet and wood flooring workers spend a significant amount of their time bending and working on their knees. These workers lift heavy materials, may be exposed to construction noise and dust. Furthermore, these workers may be required to work irregular hours to work around a customers operating shift. Due to the growing population and the renovation of existing properties this occupation is in demand.

Sales representatives work for product manufactures and contractors. These workers help customers in the selection and use of various products. Furthermore, they may provide job estimates and help manage projects.

After years of experience and training, Bricklayers and other Flooring Workers can open up their own companies. These companies are in demand today due to a growing economy, new home construction and renovation of existing properties.

A great way to get started as a cement mason, bricklayer or flooring worker is an Apprenticeship program through a local Union. As an apprentice you will work for a union contractor and also attend classes at a union training facility. Apprenticeship programs typically last 4-5 years and apprentices receive pay increase as they progress throughout the program. Check out the following Union for more information regarding Apprenticeship programs in your area.

1. International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers-https://bacweb.org/

Another good website to check out for information regarding apprenticeship programs is ResumeBuilder.com. Not only do they have great information on creating resumes they also have apprenticeship information for each state. Visit https://www.resumebuilder.com/apprenticeship-resources-by-state/

Most Cement Masons, Bricklayers and flooring workers get their training while working on the job or through an apprenticeship. However, community colleges and trade schools are a great way to get started in the building trades. Its important to research the quality of training and how successful previous students have been at finding and retaining jobs. Some Community Colleges and trade Schools may have programs to connect students with employers. Talk to local building trades contractors on what their experience has been with students that have completed programs from these schools.

There are many skilled trades and construction occupations throughout the United States Armed Forces. These occupations will certainly help develop important skills that are relevant to bricklayers, masonry workers, flooring workers and other building trades fields. Each military branch has personnel that are highly trained to service, maintain and install anything that exist on a military base. Enlisted members of the Armed Forces, complete a basic training course then they must complete additional training before they begin working in their occupation. Members of the Armed Forces get 30 days of vacation each year, food and housing, medical, dental and many other important benefits. Educational benefits are available during your enlistment period and upon completion. Joining the military can be a great way to learn a skilled trades or construction occupation.

Always contact a Military Recruiter to learn more detailed information on job opportunities, training, benefits and other important information for employment within the Armed Forces.