Switching careers to Masonry at 35

[ems0507]

I am 35 years old and thinking about leaving corporate to become a mason. I am in good shape and I already know how to work with my hands since I spend my days gardening too. (Does that count?). But I want to know if there is a real path to making more money and moving into better positions as I get older. I am curious about how much this job wears down your body over time and what a typical day looks like for most of you. Do you have to start work before the sun comes up and is there any time left for a life outside of work? Since most of the jobs are outdoors I also want to know what happens when the weather turns cold and everything freezes over. It feels like a solid trade to learn but I want to make sure I know what I am getting into before I make the jump. Thanks for any advise.

 

[last goodbye]

It is a big decision to make. Becoming a mason is a physically demanding job. You'll have to consider the weather since you will be working outside and during winter expect that there are fewer jobs available. I guess you'll have to rethink it again especially if your current job pays you well.

 

[El VMX]

@last goodbye is right! You have to rethink your decisions. You must also consider your current hourly rate vs. the hourly rate once you become a mason. I am not trying to discourage you, but you have to make a wise decision. Good luck!

 

[Alan]

Personally, I wasn't doing well when I was younger but when you develop your skill in the trade, you'll get higher pay.

That being said, the pay and availability of work will depend on your location and also the style of masonry you're looking for. While you're in your corporate job and is undecided, start doing small personal projects to see if it's the trade for you.