Intakes for this program have been postponed indefinitely.

Description

This 21 week program prepares students for employment as a Mason (Bricklayer) apprentice. A masons' work can be laying a simple wall or installing an ornate exterior on a high-rise building. Students will learn to read blueprints, building codes, industry safety requirements and guidelines for handling hazardous materials. Practical skills are enhanced as students perform outdoor projects utilizing power and hand tools, material moving, constructing simple and ornate walls utilizing a variety of materials such as brick, concrete, glass block, terra cotta and stone.

At the end of the Foundation program students will write the Masonry Level 1 exam. Students who complete the Foundation program and exam are eligible for credit in Masonry Level 1 apprenticeship program and 400 work-based training hours.

Taking a foundation program can build the skills that employers are looking for. To progress as an apprentice you will need to find an employer who will sponsor your apprenticeship and register with SkilledTradesBC.

Who Studies Masonry?

This program is suited for individuals that like to build, create and assemble structures from drawings and specifications. Masonry work is physical and performed outdoors; there is a considerable amount of standing, bending, and lifting. Additional information is available at: kpu.ca/trades/masonry.

Career Opportunities

This program prepares graduates for employment in construction companies and bricklaying contractors. Progression to supervisory positions is possible with additional training and experience.

Faculty's website: kpu.ca/trades

Department's website: kpu.ca/trades/masonry

Admission Requirements

In addition to KPU’s General university admission requirements, including the vocational-level English Proficiency Requirement, the following program admission requirements apply.

• English:
  • English Studies 12 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • Completion of KPU’s Vocational Trades English Reading Assessment with a minimum score of 75%
• Mathematics:
  • Apprenticeship and Workplace Mathematics 11 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • Foundations of Mathematics 11 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • Pre-calculus 11 with a minimum grade of ‘C’ (or equivalent), or
  • KPU’s Vocational Trades Mathematics Assessment with a minimum threshold percentage of 31%

Notes:

• Group information sessions are regularly scheduled at the Cloverdale campus, and participation is highly recommended. Please see kpu.ca/trades for schedule information.
• Completion of high school shop courses is an asset.

Satisfactory physical health is also recommended. Prior to applying, prospective students with mental or physical impairments, who may require program accommodations, should contact the Office of the Dean of Trades and Technology to discuss required skills and competencies, and Accessibility Services to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.

Curricular Requirements

• Bricklaying
• Scaffolding
• Bonds and bond patterns; wall structures, terminology, corner layout and construction
• Interpretation of blueprints and working drawings of the construction industry
• Estimation procedures
• Interpretation of specifications
• Walls; solid, hollow, cavity, veneered, composite, reinforced and retaining
• Columns, piers and pilasters in brick and block

Note: Students must achieve a minimum grade of 70%, which translates to B-, in practical exams and assignments.

Other Information

Special Equipment

Students will require appropriate safety wear (including shoes with steel toe construction, steel shanks, and ankle support) in conformance with Workers' Compensation Board regulations. A list of required tools, equipment or supplies will be provided by the instructor at the start of the program.

Credential Awarded

Upon successful completion of this program, students are eligible to receive a Citation in Masonry.

KPU will report your in-school technical training completion information to SkilledTradesBC in order for SkilledTradesBC to determine credit towards your designated apprenticeship.