Course Description:
This course provides students with an overview of the masonry trade including the history and origin of masonry construction, tools and equipment, safety, basic fundamentals of mortar preparation, application, and the use of various masonry products.  Lecture and laboratory hours teach students fundamentals of masonry construction, material estimation, and supply the opportunity for skill development. This course prepares students for entry level positions in the field of masonry, in addition to serving as related instruction for the requirements of the Division of Apprenticeship Standards.
Career Areas:
Stone Cutter -  Hand cutting
Stone Dresser
Stone Driller
Stone Finisher
Stone Mason
Bricklayer Assisant
Bricklayer Apprentice
Brick Mason
Brick Cleaner
Landscape Designer
Landscape Construction
Job Outlook:
Jobs for brick masons, and stonemasons are expected to increase by 12 percent over the 2008–18 decade, as fast as the average for all occupations, as the rising population will create a need for schools, hospitals, apartment buildings, and other structures. Also stimulating demand for workers will be the need to build more energy-efficient industrial facilities and office buildings (some of which may be made from brick) and to restore a growing number of old brick buildings. Moreover, the Federal Government has indicated a willingness to spend more on repairing schools and on making government buildings more energy efficient, which should have a positive impact on the construction industry in general. Because of demographic forces, the residential housing market is expected to eventually pick up again. Brick and stone exteriors should remain popular, reflecting a growing preference for durable exterior materials requiring little maintenance. There is also an increased demand for durable homes that incorporate brick or stone in hurricane-prone areas.  The large number of aging masonry buildings will increase opportunities for workers with restoration skills.
Mountain View High School
Jeff McTighe, Instructor
Articulation Agreement under development for 201-2012 with Foothill College's Environmental Horticulture, Landscape Construction courses