Obtaining this type of growth throughout your career can be difficult, but resources and industry networking can guide you in the right direction. The NCCER recommends finding a mentor. Seasoned construction professionals can provide a level of
guidance that can’t be replicated through classes and research. Mentors are an extremely important part in the masonry career as this person can be your support, your teacher, and your connections for potential future workforce labor.
The NCCER recognizes that career development in any field can bring various stressors. Starting a new career and learning a new craft, especially one as independent as the masonry field, can invoke an intense bundle of stress that should be
managed effectively. The organization recommends adapting to a healthy balance between work and life. The balance of work life and fun is important in any career, especially in manual labor and in a niche skilled profession.
If you choose to have a mentor and are feeling some stress, it is important to feel comfortable to lean on them with honesty and open ears. Many mentors have weekly conversations that are implemented in order to create a supportive and open
relationship, allowing the student to feel comfortable and driven in the industry. Another great way to avoid the stress of unknown skills, as previously mentioned, is participating in masonry pre-apprentice programs. These can eliminate the
doubt or stress of initially getting involved.
Before joining the career force, you must be open to interviewing and networking in a professional fashion. One of the key components to get your resume to stand out is by having a proactive and brief cover letter. Using your cover letter
and resume to highlight strengths, credentials, and experience can be an easy way to get your foot in the door of the masonry industry.
The NCCER provides various resources for career placement opportunities, certifications, and more. Job placement is essential and can be an easier process with the help of teachers, mentors, and associations such as the MCAA. Some of the
NCCER training program resources include journeymen training and certifications along with other resources to assist in your career advancement. The MCAA has many resources
for those seeking to get their
masonry certification or develop their skills further in
technical knowledge and skill.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
When entering a career, it is common for bad habits to be developed. According to the NCCER, detrimental and inefficient habits can cause severe issues for the young mason who finds promotion in a management role. The masonry industry, along with many
others, requires dedication and determination.
Setting out on a masonry career path can be overwhelming, with persistent hours and demands. While time must be conserved and funds used responsibly, young masons-to-be should rationalize the need for equipment, such as personal protective
equipment. While it might be attractive to forego its use, the resulting hazard can potentially end a career in the infancy stage. With that being said, entry level masons can use simple PPE as many experienced laborers prefer their
higher-grade comfort.
A new tool might be expensive; however, its use could eliminate hours of labor. This would end up rearing savings for the masonry contractor, so if it is affordable, its purchase could allow for an increased earning. On the other hand,
if the new tool purchase devours the buyer’s entire savings or operating capital, it would probably be better. It is better to identify the need, consider its costs, and develop a game plan that compliments the budget.
As is life, masonry is rooted in continuing education. As new products and procedures are introduced into the trade, masons should recognize their value and continually seek further information, improved ideas, and continuing education
courses. A mistake of enormous consequence is failure to admit you do not know the answer to a crucial question.
One should never rule out the power in mentorship and peers. Lean on the experience and knowledge of your trade because everyone started somewhere. Helping each other and having an experienced leader allows for more learning and a
better understanding of masonry. Asking questions and being open to criticism is key in developing in any career, but with masonry as a focus. The masonry community is an ever-changing and supportive family with friendly instructors
and mentors looking to develop the future of our workforce.
Photos:
MASONRY Magazine, Curtis Hoover