Bricklayers and Stonemasons

Opportunities are sometimes limited for high school students to directly experience work in the field of bricklaying and stonemasonry. It is fortunate, however, that student groups exist that provide opportunities for experience and exploration. One such group is the National Association of Home Builders Student Chapters Program, which has chapters in high schools, career technical schools, community colleges, and universities. By becoming a member, you get to experience the "real world" of construction, including bricklaying and stonemasonry. Some groups visit construction sites; others participate in repairing homes; others help organize repairs on their own school buildings.

Hands-on experience is one of the best ways to explore the building trades. If you are too young to get such experience, at least contact others who have already started their careers. For example, try to contact participants from the International Masonry Institute or visit its Web site (https://imiweb.org/ae-education) to watch free webinars.