If you're looking to start a career in masonry in College, AK, 2025 presents promising opportunities. With Alaska's construction sector projected to grow by 10.8% from 2020 to 2030, and over $20 billion in new infrastructure projects planned by 2030, the demand for skilled masonry workers is on the rise 12. For more economic insights, check out this Alaska employment report. To begin your journey, you'll typically need to complete an apprenticeship program, which combines hands-on training with classroom instruction. These programs usually require 4,000 hours of on-the-job training and 288–450 hours of classroom instruction 34.
Masons are skilled professionals who construct and maintain structures using materials like brick, concrete, and stone. In College, AK, masons work on a variety of projects, including residential buildings, commercial structures, and infrastructure developments. Key responsibilities include:
For detailed information on masonry roles, refer to this industry overview. Masonry work requires physical stamina, as workers often lift heavy loads (up to 100 lbs) and work outdoors in varying weather conditions 12.
While Alaska does not require a specific license for masons, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a registered apprenticeship program. These programs provide the necessary training and credentials to work independently. To qualify for an apprenticeship, you typically need:
Completing an apprenticeship not only enhances your skills but also increases your employability in a competitive job market. Learn more about apprenticeship options at this training center.
Becoming a mason in College, AK, typically begins with an apprenticeship, which blends hands-on experience with classroom learning. The apprenticeship process includes:
To find an apprenticeship:
To start your masonry career, you must:
While not always mandatory, completing a masonry education program can give you a solid foundation in the trade. Programs are offered by organizations like the University of Alaska Fairbanks' Construction Trade Technology Program, which provides training in diagnostics, testing, laws, codes, and standards relevant to masonry 5. For additional resources, see this construction forecast.
An apprenticeship is a crucial step in becoming a mason. In College, AK, you can find apprenticeships through unions or training centers. During your apprenticeship, you'll work under the supervision of experienced masons and learn practical skills such as:
To find an apprenticeship:
After completing your apprenticeship, you can pursue journey-level certification, which allows you to work independently as a mason. This certification demonstrates your expertise and increases your earning potential. Check out this salary resource for wage details.
As you gain experience, you may have opportunities to advance into roles such as foreman or project manager. These positions require leadership and organizational skills, which can be developed through on-the-job experience and additional training 6. Explore more on masonry magazine for career advancement tips.
The demand for masonry workers in College, AK, is strong, driven by infrastructure development projects and labor shortages across Alaska. Entry-level masonry positions in College, AK, offer competitive salaries, with annual earnings ranging from $31,000 to over $56,000, depending on the specific role and employer 12.
Hourly wages for entry-level masonry jobs can range from $22 to $40 per hour, providing a solid income for those starting in the field 3. As you gain experience, your earning potential increases, especially if you take on leadership roles or specialize in specific masonry techniques. For labor trends, refer to this Alaska labor stats page.
While masonry offers rewarding career opportunities, there are challenges to consider:
| Challenge/Barrier | Example/Data Point |
|---|---|
| Physical fitness | Lifting up to 100 lbs, 8+ hrs/day labor |
| Education requirement | High school diploma or GED required |
| Apprentice screening | Interviews, limited enrollment windows |
| Training time | 4,000 hours OJT + 288–450 hours classroom |
| Access to training centers | Travel to Fairbanks/Palmer may be required |
| Work conditions | Outdoor work, variable weather, high elevations |
These factors—physical demands, educational prerequisites, competitive enrollment, training time, and logistical access—are the primary challenges or barriers for potential masonry workers in College, AK 132.
Advancements in technology are expected to influence the masonry job market in College, AK, by 2025. The Alaska construction sector is projected to grow significantly, adding around 600 jobs statewide, reflecting a 7.2% increase 34. This growth creates a tight labor market, with about 14% of construction workers in Anchorage traveling from out of state to meet demand, signaling potential labor shortages locally, including for masonry roles 3.
Technological advancements, such as automation and improved construction methods, could increase productivity and alter required skill sets in masonry, emphasizing the need for adapted workforce development and technical education expansions planned in Alaska’s FY2026 budget 4.
Starting a career as a masonry apprentice in College, AK, is an exciting opportunity to enter a field that is both essential and well-paid. Whether you're just finishing high school or considering a career change, following these steps will set you on the path to success in this critical industry. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in masonry will only continue to grow.
Check out Gild for apprenticeship opportunities near you!
https://live.laborstats.alaska.gov/sites/default/files/trends-mag-file/feb25.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/cement-mason/job-market/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.akbizmag.com/industry/nonprofits/econforecast2025/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.alaska.edu/pres/2025%20State%20of%20the%20University%20Address.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://toptradeschools.com/near-you/masonry-worker/alaska/ ↩
