Welcome to your complete guide for launching a masonry career in Denver, CO in 2025. With 78 job openings currently listed for masonry professionals in Denver and a projected 6% job growth over the next two years 12, now is an ideal time to enter this high-demand trade. The median national salary for masons stands at $56,600 annually, with Colorado construction wages anticipated to rise by 15-20% as companies compete to fill over 3,413 new local construction jobs projected through 2025 345. This article outlines the exact steps to becoming a licensed mason in Denver, the training timeline, certification options, and career pathways in this growing field. We'll help you understand how to start this career without requiring a college degree but offering structured apprenticeships and on-the-job learning. For more information on local training, check out Emily Griffith Technical College.
Before diving into the steps, it's essential to fully understand what being a mason entails. Masons in Denver are skilled construction professionals who build structures using brick, block, stone, and other masonry materials. Their work can include constructing buildings, walls, and pathways, as well as repairing and maintaining existing masonry structures.
Masonry requires both physical stamina and technical skill, as masons must interpret blueprints, understand material properties, and work with precision. The trade offers opportunities to work on diverse projects including residential housing developments, commercial construction, and infrastructure projects across the Denver metro area. For additional insights, visit Studio in Denver.
While masons are not required to be licensed in Colorado, obtaining certifications can significantly enhance career prospects. The most recognized certifications include:
For those wishing to take on contracts as independent contractors, obtaining a Class D license requires proof of liability insurance and passing an International Code Council exam 2.
Certifications demonstrate proficiency and commitment to the trade, potentially leading to higher wages and better job opportunities.
The primary pathway to entering the masonry trade in Denver is through apprenticeship programs that combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Here are the key options available:
Each program provides over 6,000 hours of combined training spanning foundational to advanced masonry skills and safety protocols.
| Program | Duration | Classroom Training | On-the-Job Training | Location | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emily Griffith Technical College | 3 years | 1,500+ hours total | 4,500+ hours total | Denver | Varies |
| CITC of Colorado | 3 years | 432 hours total | 6,000 hours total | Denver | Free 87 |
The job outlook for masonry careers in Denver has evolved from moderate growth in previous years to a stabilization by 2025, mirroring national trends. Though national employment growth is expected to show little or no change, about 21,800 annual openings nationwide are anticipated due to replacement needs from retirements and worker transitions 3. Denver still maintains active masonry job openings, indicating ongoing local demand even amid national stability projections 1.
The Colorado masonry industry is projected to reach $771.5 million by 2025 3, driven by population growth that is expected to increase by about 400,000 people by 2030 in the Denver metropolitan area 4. This demographic trend sustains strong demand for masonry labor in housing construction as well as commercial development projects.
Notably, masons have been in short supply in Denver, with employers often struggling to fill critical positions 2. This skilled labor shortage positions masons well for long-term career opportunities in the region.
The masonry trade is evolving rapidly in Denver, with several technological advancements transforming the field:
This technological shift means mason jobs are transforming from purely manual labor to roles involving supervision of automated processes and the use of smart technology for quality assurance. Masons will need to adapt their skillsets to work effectively with these new technologies and materials.
For more on these advancements, explore USBR.
To become a mason in Denver, CO, follow these crucial steps:
While not always mandatory, completing a masonry program can provide essential foundational knowledge covering:
Masonry apprenticeships in Denver typically last 3 years and involve both on-the-job training and classroom instruction 68.
After completing your apprenticeship, you'll qualify as a journeyman mason, able to work independently on construction sites.
If you're new to masonry, these strategies can help you secure entry-level positions in Denver:
Currently, there are over 70 masonry openings advertised across the Denver metro area 1, indicating active local demand even though national growth is projected to stabilize.
Explore masonry apprenticeship opportunities on Gild
Starting a career as a mason apprentice in Denver, CO, presents exciting opportunities in a field that remains essential to the region's booming construction industry. Whether you're finishing high school, seeking a career change, or looking to get into a trade, following these steps will set you on the path to success. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in masonry will continue to grow in Colorado's construction sector.
Be sure to check Gild for apprenticeship opportunities and entry-level masonry positions near you!
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Masonry/-in-Denver,CO ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/masonry-companies-having-hard-time-filling-positions ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Careers/Occupations/occupation-profile.aspx?location=Denver%2C+CO&onetcode=47202200 ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.indeed.com/q-masonry-l-denver,-co-jobs.html ↩ ↩2
https://www.emilygriffith.edu/programs/bricklayer-apprenticeship/ ↩ ↩2
https://toptradeschools.com/near-you/masonry-worker/colorado/denver/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.citcinc.org/apprenticeships/trades/masonry/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
