Masonry

This program is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) through the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and provides participants with defined career paths in the industry. This hands-on program provides many opportunities to do live work and outside projects that test and refine the student’s skills.

Bricklayers or brick masons are craftspeople who construct and repair walls, partitions, arches, fireplaces, chimneys, and other structures from brick, block, concrete, and glazed tile. They must be able to lay out jobs, read blueprints and estimate materials and cost. Instruction in this trade includes learning skills involved in the cutting, chipping and laying of brick and concrete block, the mixing and spreading of mortar and other bonding agents, and the cutting and laying of ceramic tiles. Students will learn to use tools, such as trowels, jointers, hammers, levels, gauge line and squares. Knowledge of mortar, cement, and other bonding agents is important to workers in this skilled trade.

Students have the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge by helping with the construction of a custom built home under the direction of their instructors. The local housing market has come to know the BCTC student built homes as a model of quality and craftsmanship.

Graduates of this program are prepared to seek employment in the masonry field or may choose to pursue more specialized training through an apprenticeship and/or post-secondary education.

NCCER – National Center for Construction Education and Research
The Masonry program participates in NCCER. This curricula and training process is supported by trade associations, contractors, schools, construction and maintenance users, pipeline operators, manufacturers, and third-party training providers. Visit www.nccer.org for further information.

PBA – Pennsylvania’s Builder’s Association
The program is a PBA endorsed program, which allows students who complete the program at the competent and above level to earn a PBA Certification.  Visit http://www.pabuilders.org/ for more information.