Mason at Mason Contractors Association of America

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Mason Contractors Association of America in Schaumburg, IL

About This Program

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) sponsors this Mason Apprenticeship based in Schaumburg, Illinois. MCAA is a nationally recognized trade association, and its apprenticeship program reflects industry-wide standards for masonry training. Apprentices are paid throughout the program.

This 3-year program combines 6,000 hours of on-the-job training with 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn bricklaying, block work, stone installation, and mortar application under the guidance of experienced professionals. Classroom and instructional components address trade math, construction safety, blueprint interpretation, and masonry materials.

Upon completion, apprentices earn journey-level standing in the masonry trade. With the backing of the MCAA, graduates benefit from nationally recognized training credentials that can support employment opportunities with member contractors across Illinois and beyond.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$24

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

6,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

432

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

3 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.

Mason Career Outlook

National Median

$24.19/hr

~$50,315.2/yr

Apprentice Start

$15/hr

Earn while you learn

Job Outlook

Mason employment is projected to grow moderately, supported by commercial construction and infrastructure investment. Demand is strongest in regions with active building and renovation markets. Retirements in the existing workforce are creating additional openings. Masons with restoration skills or concrete finishing certifications have the best prospects.

What to Expect as a Mason Apprentice

Duration

3 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction

On-the-Job Training

~40 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (6,000 total hours)

Classroom Instruction

432 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)

Paid Training

You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress

Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Mason

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration3 years
Starting wage$15.00/hr
Journeyman wage$24.19/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

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