Masonry Schools in Pittsburgh

Masonry workers have an in-depth understanding of manipulating stone, concrete, and other materials to build astounding structures.

A significant level of training is needed to become a professional masonry worker. This is true for masons in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as it is for other cities.

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For aspiring masons in the Pittsburgh area who have been having a hard time finding the most prominent training alternatives to consider, you have come to the right page.

Below, we discuss briefly the steps involved in starting a career as a masonry worker in Pittsburgh before diving into the top training programs in and around the city to enroll for the best possible education.

How to Become a Masonry Worker in Pittsburgh

Individuals interested in becoming masonry workers in Pittsburgh must start their journeys by obtaining a high school diploma or GED. This usually makes securing admission into a quality training program easier.

Regarding training programs, candidates wishing for a structured curriculum on an academic campus may go to community colleges and trade school programs. In contrast, those who desire a more hands-on approach may choose the apprenticeship options.

In Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania, masons are only expected to be licensed or certified if they work with cranes and asbestos or build manufactured houses.

Still, they can obtain certification anyway just to further their careers. Some of the most popular alternatives include the Certified Brick and Stone Installer credential offered by the Brick Industry Association and the Certified Bricklayer credential provided by the National Concrete Masonry Association.

Top Masonry Schools in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Below are some of the top schools and programs for aspiring masonry workers in Pittsburgh to consider:

The Trade Institute of Pittsburgh

The Trade Institute of Pittsburgh in Susquehanna Street is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to obtain masonry training in Pittsburgh and, indeed, all of Pennsylvania. The program is famous for several reasons, including the institute’s prestige, its instructors’ quality, and its facilities’ beauty.

One thing that makes it truly stand out, however, is that students are given the chance to practice what they have been taught.

Supervisors provide consistent guidance by teaching the fundamentals that will enable graduates to have confidence regardless of where they choose to specialize.

The program consists of 340 hours of training, with each step becoming more advanced than the next.

Williamson College of the Trades

Williamson College of the Trades in Media, Pennsylvania, is reputable for several global trade programs, including carpentry, landscaping, and masonry. The school’s masonry program allows students to earn an associate in specialized technology degree through lectures, demonstrations, shop exercises, and work projects.

By the time they’re done with the program, students are ready to take on employment in several capacities, including as construction superintendents, office administrators, and an array of other stone masonry specializations.

Students are taught the basics of tools and mortar spreading before progressing into intermediate topics, such as building walls and arches. Before they graduate, they will also have participated in a few complex projects, including decorative works and fireplaces.

Beaver County Career and Technology Center

Located in Monaca, Beaver County Career and Technology Center runs a well-structured masonry program that can be completed in 2 years and is approved by the Philadelphia Department of Education (PDE).

During the program, students are taught the skills they will need to become successful in a handful of masonry fields, including construction, ornamental masonry, natural stones, ceramics, tiles, and concrete.

Students will learn crucial concepts, including cutting skills, mortar spreading, and mixing.

Students will also become adept at using jointers, hammers, squares, gauge lines, and trowels.

Western Area Career and Technology Center

At the Western Area Career and Technology Center, emphasis for masonry students is placed on both theoretical instruction and hands-on training. The program lasts three years, teaching graduates all the skills they need to secure employment immediately.

Students are taught critical masonry skills such as blueprint reading, stone, concrete, ceramic tile construction, line work, and brick bonds. Still, they are encouraged to imbibe other crucial skills such as critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and decision-making.