masonry union vs hardscaping

[gabe84]

I just started the process of joining the masonry union, but I realized what I actually want to do is hardscaping (retaining walls, stone patios, etc.)
I want to focus on the heavy stone and block work side of things, did I make a mistake joining the union?
are there masonry specific companies that focus on hardscaping, or is this already the right path?

 

[Todd C00k]

no worries, man. you're taking the right path. I spent 20+ years in the Bricklayers Union before doing high end residential stone and outdoor kitchens in California. Trust me, learn masonry construction first, then branch out into hardscapes
If you start at a landscaping company, you’ll likely just do grunt work and pick up bad habits. I’ve seen landscape guys try to build outdoor fireplaces without knowing the basics
They just wing it, and the results are usually a mess. Get the technical training now so you aren't the guy getting lucky later

 

[t1m davis]

is this already the right path?

yep! Masonry is a specific type of hardscaping that involves working with materials like brick, natural stone, concrete, and CMU to create structures

 

[Ozzie_]

no worries, you're on the right path, man. landscapers are great with plants, but masons are masters of structural integrity. by joining the union, you’re going to learn the things behind the work, like proper footings, drainage, and frost lines.
it's great, stick with it!