Plasterers/Cement Masons

Alaska Trowel Trades Apprenticeship & Training Trust

The apprenticeship combines a minimum of 288 hours of classroom and skill development with 4,000 hours of on-the-job-training. Cement Masons do cement finishing of sidewalks, curbs, floor slabs, architectural concrete, engraving, and stamping. Plasterers apply plaster to Interior walls and ceilings and apply stucco to exterior walls.

The Work

PLASTERER’S finish interior walls and ceilings of buildings, apply plaster on masonry, metal, and wire lath or gypsum. They also apply cement on masonry, metal, and wire lath (stucco). Most of these are hand-applied; therefore you will learn handcrafting skills.

CEMENT MASONS are responsible for all concrete construction, including pouring and finishing of slabs, steps, wall tops, curbs and gutters, sidewalks, paving and other concrete construction. They also handle epoxy, polymer add other plastic materials for topping repair and injection. Cement masons are responsible for all preparation and repairing of concrete. They also set forms and screed pins for slabs, steps, curbs and gutters, and paving.

Working Conditions

Seventy-five percent of a PLASTERER’S work is done outside on scaffolds. The work can be seasonal depending on weather conditions, with intermittent periods of unemployment. Most of the work is done commercially, but some is residential. The work involves heavy lifting, bending, climbing, and standing.

A CEMENT MASON must be physically fit and may be required to carry and handle weights of up to 100 pounds. The job often demands eight hours or more of continuous physical labor. Teamwork is essential as well as self-discipline when working alone. Fme craftsmanship skills, precision, and finesse are also necessary qualities.

The Apprenticeship

The program is a 4,000-hour training program that includes a minimum of 288 hours of classroom instruction. To remain in good standing, an apprentice must fulfill the educational requirements and make steady progress.

Enrollment Period

A two-week class usually begins the beginning ofMay. Enrollment through interviews and screening of applicants will be completed approximately 14-30 days prior to the start of class.