Mason at Plasterer & Cement Masons Local 40

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Plasterer & Cement Masons Local 40 in Cranston, RI

About This Program

Plasterer & Cement Masons Local 40 sponsors this union Mason apprenticeship in Cranston, RI. This JATC-affiliated, employer-sponsored program trains individuals in the plastering and cement masonry trades through a structured combination of paid field work and technical classroom education.

Running three years in length, the program provides 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training alongside 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work under journeyman supervision, developing skills in plaster and stucco application, concrete finishing, flatwork, surface preparation, and construction safety. Classroom coursework addresses trade fundamentals including math, material properties, building codes, and plan reading.

Graduating apprentices earn journey-level certification and the advantages of Local 40 union membership, which typically includes access to negotiated wages, health care, and retirement benefits. The Rhode Island construction industry's steady demand for qualified plasterers and cement masons makes this a solid and lasting career investment.

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.

How to Apply

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.

This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.

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

Licensing in Rhode Island

Masons in Rhode Island are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Design Professionals.

View full Rhode Islandlicensing requirements →

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