Finding my path into the masonry trade

[engee]

I am twenty seven years old and trying to decide if I should start a career in masonry. I recently moved to Portland and I am really starting to appreciate the look of historic brickwork. I am debating between becoming an electrician for the steady pay or choosing a craft like masonry or carpentry because I want to feel proud of my work. There do not seem to be many brick jobs here besides chimney repair and landscaping but I know there is a local apprenticeship program available. I am at a crossroads and want to hear how others got their start in the business. And I would love to know if a formal apprenticeship is the best way to learn the ropes or if I should just find a crew to join.

 

[dawndusk01]

@engee You could try visiting older neighborhoods like Northwest District or Sellwood to find examples of historic Portland brickwork.

 

[the reflection]

I am twenty seven years old and trying to decide if I should start a career in masonry. I recently moved to Portland and I am really starting to appreciate the look of historic brickwork. I am debating between becoming an electrician for the steady pay or choosing a craft like masonry or carpentry because I want to feel proud of my work. There do not seem to be many brick jobs here besides chimney repair and landscaping but I know there is a local apprenticeship program available. I am at a crossroads and want to hear how others got their start in the business. And I would love to know if a formal apprenticeship is the best way to learn the ropes or if I should just find a crew to join.

Have you looked into the International Union of Bricklayers to see what their local training looks like?

 

[Alan]

I am twenty seven years old and trying to decide if I should start a career in masonry. I recently moved to Portland and I am really starting to appreciate the look of historic brickwork. I am debating between becoming an electrician for the steady pay or choosing a craft like masonry or carpentry because I want to feel proud of my work. There do not seem to be many brick jobs here besides chimney repair and landscaping but I know there is a local apprenticeship program available. I am at a crossroads and want to hear how others got their start in the business. And I would love to know if a formal apprenticeship is the best way to learn the ropes or if I should just find a crew to join.

Apprenticeship is the best way to learn. Small work in your local construction. Learn from more experienced tradesmen. Masonry or electrician are good paying and most kids prefer office and online jobs these days. You'll find more job available for you in the long run.

 

[bear pickles]

It might be worth checking if masonry restoration companies offer entry level helper positions.

 

[speed fighter]

Do you have any experience working with mortar or doing heavy lifting in a construction setting?

 

[engee]

Apprenticeship is the best way to learn. Small work in your local construction. Learn from more experienced tradesmen. Masonry or electrician are good paying and most kids prefer office and online jobs these days. You'll find more job available for you in the long run.

You are right! I met someone yesterday, and he offered me an apprenticeship program. He will discuss the details next week. Does anyone have an idea if this guy will refer me, and do I have to take an assessment?

 

[Alan]

You are right! I met someone yesterday, and he offered me an apprenticeship program. He will discuss the details next week. Does anyone have an idea if this guy will refer me, and do I have to take an assessment?

Oh good for you. Learn as much as you can and have feel of it, if you like the work or not. You'll figure it out.