What Is a Cement Mason?
Creativity & Attention to Detail
Cement masons and concrete finishers enjoy working with their hands and changing their environment on almost a daily basis. A cement mason has the task of ensuring that concrete is workable and at the correct consistency. You’ll get to use both your creative side and your attention to detail a cement mason. You’ll have the opportunity to work on a variety of different projects, which could include concrete walls, slabs, elevated structures, and steps.
Cement masons occasionally operate the equipment needed to place and finish concrete slab surfaces and are responsible for pouring concrete into the correct places. If you want a job that allows you to improve the beauty and functionality of your community, this could be an ideal position for you.
What does an apprentice cement mason do?
A Diversified Craftsperson
As an apprentice, you will build skills and experience to allow you to become a diversified craftsperson certified to work alongside others with the same skill set.
Assisting Your Mentors
Firstly, shadowing and assisting your mentors will introduce you to more responsibilities and experiences that change daily as the construction site evolves towards completion.
Technical Training
While employed by a contractor, Local 919 will oversee and monitor your progression as an apprentice, administer and schedule the two levels of technical training required to complete your 3 year apprenticeship
Insurance & Coverage
As a Local 919 apprentice, you will be eligible for medical benefits, Dental coverage, and a pension for when you do decide to retire.
Career Network
As a Red Seal Certified cement mason, you will be allowed unlimited work opportunities locally, provincially, nationally and internationally earning a respectful income.
The Trowel Trades Training Association
The Trowel Trades Training Association provides high quality training for all Local 919 apprentices and are the only institution in the province of British Columbia.
Frequently Asked Questions
An increase of 5% is due after each 6-month duration of employment with a particular employer. Note that it is up to you to monitor this on your own behalf and then notify our office and we will contact your employer for you.
To qualify to use your hours, you must have been a sponsored apprentice while employed by that contractor. You must also have an employer declaration form outlining your work experience, then the Local 919 Apprentice board will review your request.
Please call our office at (604) 595-9198 or email us at [email protected] to register.
Yes, the Apprenticeship Savings Trust account, WorkBC Apprentice Services and Employment Insurance all offer outlets for financial supports while attending class. Student loans are available as well through the government.
It typically takes about takes three years to accumulate the work-based hours and two levels of technical training classes to complete the apprenticeship program.
It is most beneficial to return to work after taking technical training class so you can practice skills and knowledge. For that reason, it is not recommended that you take consecutive technical training classes. You may have to accumulate adequate hours to qualify for completion grants, which is also a reason to return to work after taking class.
It is ideal to have some experience with handling and concrete placement so that you understand the physical requirements needed to be successful.
If you are currently a union apprentice, Local 919 is already sponsoring you. Otherwise, yes, you do need to be sponsored.
Once you meet the requirements*, you can apply for the completion grant online.
*Requirements include a progression letter that states: 1) your hours accumulated to date; and 2) confirmation of successful completion of training class level.
You can apply for your tax credit online once you have the following:
- Completion of both levels of technical training
- A minimum of 3,240 hours
- Received your Red Seal Certificate
As an apprentice, you do not have the option. All apprentices sponsored by Local 919 must complete their full apprenticeship.
All apprentices must complete both levels of technical training.
Training classes normally run between November and April, which allows apprentices to attend classes when the construction season is normally a little slower. Please see attached training schedule.
Your obligations as a union-sponsored apprentice are:
- You must participate in and complete two levels of technical training
- You must attain hours while working for signatory contractors
- You must pass all pertinent exams
No. The money that has been deducted from your paycheque is held in trust and will be returned to you to supplement EI benefits to help with personal expenses during your absence from work.