What’s It Like to Be a Mason?

If you enjoy building things that last, working with your hands, and creating structures from the ground up, becoming a Mason could be a rock-solid career choice. Masons work with brick, stone, and concrete to construct walls, walkways, chimneys, and more. It’s a skilled trade that blends craftsmanship, strength, and precision.

📅 A Day in the Life

Here’s what your day might include:

  • Reading blueprints – You’ll interpret plans to understand dimensions, materials, and layout.

  • Laying bricks or stones – You’ll carefully place and align materials using mortar and tools.

  • Mixing and applying mortar – You’ll prepare bonding agents to hold structures together.

  • Cutting materials – You’ll use saws or chisels to shape bricks, blocks, or stones as needed.

  • Inspecting and repairing – You’ll check for cracks or damage and perform maintenance work.

💡 What Makes It Awesome?

  • You get to build structures that are strong, beautiful, and long-lasting.

  • It’s a high-demand trade with opportunities in residential, commercial, and restoration work.

  • You’ll work outdoors and stay physically active.

  • There’s pride in craftsmanship—your work is visible and valued.

🧠 Good to Know

  • Most masons learn through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

  • Physical strength, stamina, and attention to detail are important.

  • Safety is key—working with heavy materials and tools requires proper training.

  • Weather can affect your schedule, especially for outdoor projects.

📌 Quick Facts

  • Education Level: High school diploma + apprenticeship or vocational training.

  • Work Environment: Construction sites, both residential and commercial.

  • Skills or Interests: Bricklaying, concrete work, precision, and endurance.

  • Salary Range: $50,000–$75,000 CAD annually.

  • Job Outlook / Growth: Solid demand in building and restoration projects.

  • Physical Activity Level: Highly active; involves lifting, bending, and working with heavy materials.