Plasterer / Cement Mason

Cement Your Path to Success: Careers in Cement and Plaster in Houston TX

Cement Masons and Plasterers in Houston are skilled tradespeople who specialize in working with concrete and plaster to create and finish surfaces in construction.

What Do Cement Masons and Plasterers Do?

• Cement Masons: Cement masons focus on pouring, leveling, and finishing concrete surfaces. They work on various projects, including foundations, floors, sidewalks, and roads. Their tasks include preparing the site, setting up forms, mixing and pouring concrete, and smoothing surfaces using trowels, floats, and other finishing tools.
• Plasterers: Plasterers apply plaster and stucco to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces to create a smooth, decorative, or protective finish. They mix plaster, apply it to surfaces, and ensure a uniform and durable finish. Plasterers also repair and restore existing plasterwork, including historical or decorative elements.

Training and Apprenticeships through OPCMIA Local Unions

OPCMIA (Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association) Local Unions such as Local 783, Areas 783, 681, and 79 provide comprehensive apprenticeship programs for aspiring cement masons and plasterers. Training through these unions typically includes:

• On-the-Job Training: Apprentices gain practical experience by working on construction sites under the supervision of experienced tradespeople. This hands-on training covers various aspects of concrete and plaster work, including mixing, application, finishing, and repairs.
• Classroom Instruction: Apprentices receive formal education on topics such as blueprint reading, concrete mix designs, plastering techniques, and safety protocols. Training also includes understanding the properties of different materials and the methods used for various finishes.
• Safety Training: Emphasis is placed on safety practices, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), understanding safety regulations, and preventing accidents on the job.
• Specialized Techniques: Training may include specialized skills such as decorative plasterwork, creating textured finishes, and working with advanced concrete technologies.

The apprenticeship programs typically last between three to four years, combining classroom learning with hands-on experience. Apprentices earn a wage during their training, with pay rates increasing as they advance and gain more skills.

Career Opportunities in Houston and the Gulf Coast

Houston and the Gulf Coast region offer diverse career opportunities for cement masons and plasterers, especially in relation to the oil and gas industry. Key career paths include:

• Industrial Construction: Working on industrial facilities such as refineries and petrochemical plants, where cement masons and plasterers are needed for building foundations, structural elements, and specialized concrete applications.
• Oil and Gas Infrastructure: Contributing to the construction and maintenance of oil rigs, pipelines, and storage facilities. Cement masons and plasterers are involved in creating durable concrete structures and protective coatings that withstand harsh environments.
• Commercial and Residential Projects: In addition to industrial work, these tradespeople are involved in commercial and residential construction, including office buildings, housing developments, and renovation projects.
• Specialized Applications: Opportunities in creating specialized concrete features, such as decorative pavements, stamped concrete, and high-performance coatings designed for industrial settings.

Why Pursue a Career in Cement Masons and Plasterers in Houston?

Several factors make a career as a cement mason or plasterer appealing in Houston:

1. High Demand: The expansive growth in construction and infrastructure projects in Houston and the Gulf Coast ensures a steady demand for skilled tradespeople.
2. Competitive Wages: Cement masons and plasterers receive good wages and benefits, including those provided through union membership.
3. Diverse Opportunities: The variety of projects, particularly in the oil and gas sector, offers a dynamic and engaging work environment.
4. Career Growth: With experience and additional training, there are opportunities for advancement to supervisory roles, project management, or specialized positions.
5. Job Satisfaction: The ability to work on significant projects and see the tangible results of their work provides a strong sense of accomplishment.

Careers as cement masons and plasterers are rewarding with comprehensive training through OPCMIA local unions. The expanding construction and oil and gas industries in Houston and the diverse industry in the Gulf Coast region provide numerous career paths, making these trades a valuable and fulfilling choice.