Mason at Plasterers' & Cement Masons Local 40 JATC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Plasterers' & Cement Masons Local 40 JATC in Cranston, RI

About This Program

Plasterers' & Cement Masons Local 40 JATC sponsors this union Mason apprenticeship in Cranston, RI. Operated as a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program, this is a jointly governed initiative that combines union oversight with employer participation to deliver consistent, high-quality masonry trade training in Rhode Island.

The three-year program includes 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience in plastering, stucco application, concrete finishing, surface leveling, and cement masonry work on live construction projects. Classroom instruction covers safety regulations, trade math, material science, and blueprint reading.

Completion of the program earns apprentices journey-level status as plasterers and cement masons, along with the benefits of Local 40 union membership. This JATC apprenticeship provides a structured, paid pathway into a skilled trade with strong long-term employment prospects in the Rhode Island and southern New England construction market.

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.

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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