The masonry industry in Florida is projected to reach $2.3 billion by 2025 1, with Sarasota emerging as a key market for skilled tradespeople according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As of May 2025, Indeed lists 40 masonry jobs available in Sarasota, with wages ranging from $19.51 to $35.00 per hour 23. With home prices in Sarasota expected to increase by 5-10% annually through 2025 4, the growing construction sector is creating new opportunities for masons; for more on housing trends, visit the Sarasota Housing Market Forecast. Whether you're starting your career or looking to advance in the field, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a mason in Sarasota, FL.
Before diving into the steps to becoming a mason, it's essential to understand what the profession entails. Masons are skilled tradespeople who construct buildings and structures using materials like brick, concrete blocks, and stone. For insights on the latest design trends, check out Gault Stone's design blog. Their work includes:
Masons work on various projects including residential homes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects. With residential projects accounting for 68% of contractor work in 2025 5, there's strong demand for masons with expertise in home construction, especially in areas like Sarasota where local building trades programs are helping build the workforce.
While Florida does not require a statewide license for masons, obtaining certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects. The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) offers industry-recognized certifications that demonstrate your skills and knowledge 6, and details on Florida's apprenticeship programs can be found in the Florida Department of Education report.
For those working on government-funded projects, you may need to self-certify as a Section 3 worker, which involves specific requirements and community involvement 7. Additionally, masons should be familiar with local building codes and permits as managed by the City of Sarasota and Sarasota County 89, and you can learn more about regional economic factors from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics page.
Many masons start their careers through apprenticeships or formal training programs that cover fundamental construction skills, safety protocols, and business practices 6. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on training.
| Program | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Masonry Association of Florida Apprenticeship | NCCER-approved program covering construction fundamentals, shop mathematics, and business skills 6. Learn more from Florida's apprenticeship resources | 3-4 years |
| Local Trade Schools and Community Colleges | Courses on masonry techniques (availability varies); check Sarasota County Schools for local options | 6 months-2 years |
| Valencia College (Online/Distance Learning) | Related programs for Sarasota residents willing to participate in online courses 6 | Varies |
To find apprenticeship opportunities in Sarasota:
To begin a masonry career in Sarasota, you should:
While not always mandatory, completing a masonry education program can give you a solid foundation in the trade. These programs are offered by trade schools, community colleges, and industry associations in Florida and usually cover topics like:
An apprenticeship is the most common path to becoming a fully qualified mason. In Florida, apprenticeships typically last 3-4 years and involve both on-the-job training and classroom instruction 6, with more details available in the Florida Department of Education report.
During your apprenticeship, you'll work under the supervision of experienced masons and learn practical skills such as:
While not always required, certifications can help advance your career and increase earning potential. Consider pursuing:
With experience, masons can move into supervisory roles, become estimators, or start their own businesses. Continuing education in project management, business operations, and advanced masonry techniques can help with career advancement, and stay updated with Indeed for job opportunities.
The demand for masonry trade jobs in Sarasota is expected to remain stable or increase by 2025, driven by:
| Position | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Masons | $25.88/hour | - |
| Brick Masons | $24.40/hour (approx.) | $50,760/year |
| Mason Helpers | $15.72/hour (approx.) | $32,692/year |
| High-end Masons | Up to $37.07/hour | - |
| Entry-level Masons | $19.55/hour | - |
Benefits for masonry professionals in Sarasota often include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, especially when working for established companies or through union affiliations. For current job listings, visit Glassdoor or Indeed.
While women and minorities are historically underrepresented in the construction industry, with only about 11.5% of construction industry payroll employees being women 3, there are growing opportunities for underrepresented groups in masonry. Initiatives like the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grant program aim to address barriers to entry for women in non-traditional fields 3, and more information is available through Florida's resources. Local events and competitions can also help raise awareness and interest in masonry trades among underrepresented groups.
The construction industry faces significant workforce shortages, creating opportunities for diverse candidates to fill critical roles. As the industry seeks to diversify and meet demand, there is a growing need for skilled workers from all backgrounds, with design trends supporting this at Gault Stone.
To effectively find and secure masonry job opportunities in Sarasota, FL in 2025:
Starting a career in masonry in Sarasota, FL offers a path to a stable, well-paying job in a growing industry. With masonry industry growth projected to continue, and home prices expected to rise annually, the demand for skilled masons remains strong 4.
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 essential trade. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in masonry will only continue to grow; to get started, explore masonry apprenticeship opportunities in Sarasota on Gild, check Indeed for jobs, and review design trends for career inspiration.
https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/florida/masonry/19924/ ↩ ↩2
https://www.yourobserver.com/news/2024/nov/21/sarasota-labor-market-shortages/ ↩ ↩2
North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota, FL Economy at a Glance ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.davidliberatore.com/blog/sarasota-housing-market-forecast-2025-trends-insights/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://toptradeschools.com/near-you/masonry-worker/florida/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
