Nashville's masonry industry is experiencing strong growth, with the construction sector projected to expand by 3.3% in 2025 compared to the national average of 1.8% 1. The city's rapid urban development, major projects like the new Tennessee Titans stadium, and a focus on sustainable building practices are driving demand for skilled masons. Aspiring masons in Nashville can expect average hourly wages between $25.94 to $27.22, with top earners making up to $37.15 per hour 23. To capitalize on these opportunities, obtaining proper training, certifications, and completing apprenticeships are essential entry points into this thriving trade.
For those ready to begin their journey, platforms like Gild can help you start building your career by connecting you with local opportunities.
Before diving into the steps required to become a mason in Nashville, it's important to understand what the job entails. Masons use bricks, concrete blocks, and natural or man-made stones to build and maintain structures like walls, walkways, patios, and building exteriors. Their work requires both physical stamina and precision, as they must measure, cut, and lay masonry units with exacting accuracy.
Key responsibilities include:
While Tennessee doesn't require a general license for masonry work, pursuing specific certifications can significantly enhance career prospects. For projects valued over $100,000, a Licensed Masonry Contractor License is mandatory, which requires passing the state exam 1.
Most employers prefer candidates with credentials that demonstrate skill proficiency such as:
Completing these programs not only validates expertise but also improves employability in the competitive Nashville market.
The most common path to entering the masonry trade involves a combination of formal education and hands-on training. Nashville offers several pathways to develop the skills needed for success:
Programs such as those offered by TCAT Upper Cumberland and TCAT Nashville provide comprehensive training through a three-year curriculum that meets U.S. Department of Labor standards 45. These programs typically include:
Apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways to learn the trade while earning income. These programs, typically run by unions and construction firms, offer:
Let’s compare Nashville’s training options:
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====================================== ========================= ========================= Program Type Duration Key Features ====================================== ========================= ========================= TCAT Programs 20 months to 3 years Practical skills + academic knowledge WASCO Masonry Training Institute (MTI) Career advancement with ‘learn while you earn’ focus Union Apprenticeships 2-4 years Mentorship + on-the-job training Independent Contractor Path Self-paced Requires existing experience ====================================== ========================= =========================
Follow these steps to launch your career in masonry:
To start any formal masonry program, you must be:
For most beginners, the optimal approach involves enrolling in a formal program like TCAT Nashville or applying for apprenticeships 5. These programs provide structured learning and industry connections.
Apprenticeships combine mentorship with practical experience. Begin by applying to union programs or construction companies offering training.
Once you've gained experience, pursue certifications like NCCER, IMI, or NCMA to establish credibility and improve career prospects 1. These certifications often lead to higher salaries and access to more advanced positions.
Consider specializing in areas like historical restoration, sustainable eco-friendly construction, or high-end custom masonry to differentiate yourself and command higher wages 7.
Nashville’s construction boom is creating numerous opportunities in masonry, with average annual salaries of $50,690 7. Compared to national counterparts, masons here earn strong wages, though cities like Los Angeles and New York typically offer higher salaries due to higher costs of living. The demand for skilled tradespeople will be further driven by green building trends and large-scale infrastructure projects, making now an excellent time to enter the field.
Specializing can increase income potential, with top earners in niche areas making up to $37.15 per hour 8. With specialized credentials and experience, masons can also eventually transition into supervisory roles or even start their own contracting businesses.
For strategic placement in Nashville's competitive mason market, be sure to explore opportunities on Gild, which connects aspiring tradespeople with local construction companies seeking skilled masons.
Starting a career in masonry in Nashville offers a pathway to a stable, well-paying profession in one of the nation’s most dynamic cities. Whether you’re just finishing high school or considering a career change, follow these steps to establish yourself in this rewarding field. As the city continues its growth and development through 2025, the need for skilled masons will remain strong.
Ready to start your journey into masonry in Nashville? Check out Gild for qualified apprenticeship and training opportunities in Nashville and surrounding areas. This resource can help align your new career with the booming Nashville construction market.
https://news.utk.edu/2024/12/19/boyd-center-report-shows-tennessees-economy-to-surpass-us-growth-in-2025/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Careers/Occupations/occupation-profile.aspx?location=Nashville%2C+TN&onetcode=47205100 ↩
https://abctn.org/education/apprenticeship-application/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://tcatnashville.edu/programs/building-construction-technology ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://toptradeschools.com/near-you/masonry-worker/tennessee/ ↩
https://www.herenashville.com/nashville-economic-growth-forecast-2025/ ↩ ↩2
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/workforce/documents/LMR/LMRFeb2025.pdf ↩
