In Columbus, MS, pursuing a masonry career in 2025 requires completing a 3.5-year apprenticeship through programs like the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program, where you'll gain hands-on training while earning wages, with average salaries for brick masons reaching $45,510 annually and up to $49,870 for experienced workers. Do you need a license or certification? Yes, certifications like OSHA and NCCER are essential, the process involves enrolling in apprenticeships and gaining on-the-job experience, it typically takes 3.5 to 5 years depending on the path, financial investment is minimal as many programs are paid, and career prospects are strong with projected growth from major projects like the $2.5 billion Aluminum Dynamics mill creating around 1,000 new jobs. This guide will detail each step to help you navigate the journey, with resources like Gild for job searches and Indeed for construction jobs.
Masons in Columbus, MS, are skilled professionals who specialize in building and repairing structures using materials like bricks, blocks, and stone. This includes laying foundations, constructing walls, and ensuring buildings meet local codes, often working on residential, commercial, and industrial projects influenced by the region's economic expansion 123. Before starting, it's crucial to recognize the physical demands, such as lifting heavy materials and working outdoors, as well as the rewarding aspects like contributing to long-lasting infrastructure in a growing area like the Golden Triangle Industrial Park; for more on local projects, check Oxford Eagle.
Yes, while Mississippi doesn't require a statewide license for masons, certifications are highly recommended for career advancement and job security in 2025. Essential certifications include OSHA for safety compliance and NCCER for industry-recognized credentials, which enhance employability and ensure you're prepared for the physical and technical aspects of the trade 2. These can be obtained through apprenticeship programs, and while not always mandatory, they significantly improve opportunities, especially with employers participating in the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program; learn more about training classes at Train Mason.
To enter the masonry trade in Columbus, MS, in 2025, the primary pathway is a formal apprenticeship, typically lasting 3.5 years, combining classroom instruction with on-the-job training 45. Although a high school diploma or GED is beneficial, it's not strictly required, but having coursework in math and construction can give you an edge. Programs like those offered by the Masonry Industry Training Association provide essential skills in tool use, material handling, and blueprint reading, preparing you for real-world applications; explore apprenticeship listings on ZipRecruiter for construction jobs or General Shale Brick opportunities.
Here's a quick overview of key apprenticeship details:
| Apprenticeship Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3.5 years, divided into seven periods with progressive training |
| Training Type | Hands-on work and classroom instruction |
| Certifications Gained | Recognition from the Department of Labor, leading to journeyman status |
| Availability | Paid opportunities available in Columbus, MS, through local programs 63; find more at Indeed apprenticeships |
To start your masonry career, you must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED, as these are standard for apprenticeship enrollment. Physical fitness and basic math skills are also necessary to handle the demands of the trade, ensuring you're ready for the rigorous training ahead 12. For additional job data, visit Gild's masonry jobs page.
An apprenticeship is the cornerstone of masonry training in Columbus, MS. Use resources like Gild to search for openings, where you'll find paid programs blending practical experience with technical education 7. These programs, such as those from the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program, are essential for developing skills like bricklaying and safety protocols, and they're often free to enroll through local employers 3.
During your apprenticeship, focus on acquiring key skills such as attention to detail, time management, and communication, while earning certifications like OSHA and NCCER 2. This phase, which lasts about 3.5 years, involves working under experienced masons, helping you build a portfolio and meet the one year of on-site experience often required for advancement; check salary insights on ZipRecruiter.
After completing your apprenticeship, you'll qualify as a journeyman mason, opening doors to higher-paying roles with salaries up to $49,870 annually 1. At this stage, continue enhancing your expertise through ongoing training to tackle opportunities from major projects like the Aluminum Dynamics mill 3.
In 2025, masons in Columbus, MS, can expect strong earning potential, with average salaries at $45,510 and entry-level positions around $40,625, significantly higher than general construction workers at $34,125 8. The job outlook is positive, driven by economic developments like the $2.5 billion investment creating 1,000 jobs, offering stability and growth in the construction sector 12. Factors like technological advancements and safety improvements present opportunities, though challenges such as industry declines require adaptability; for more economic updates, see GTR Link.
Your Next Steps in Masonry
Embarking on a masonry career in Columbus, MS, in 2025 is a smart move for those seeking hands-on, well-paid work. Search for apprenticeships on Gild at Gild to get started, build your network through local events, and prepare for the exciting opportunities ahead in this essential trade—good luck on your path!
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/co/Columbus-Brick/Jobs/-in-Columbus,MS ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Concrete/-in-Columbus,MS ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://mdes.ms.gov/media/313512/ms_oep_short-term.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
http://mdes.ms.gov/i-need-a-job/job-searching-resources/training-education/mississippi-apprenticeship-program/ ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-general-shale-brick,-inc-l-columbus,-ms-jobs.html ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-construction-apprenticeship-l-mississippi-jobs.html ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-construction-l-columbus,-ms-jobs.html ↩
