Advanced Cement Masonry, Pre-Apprentice
Training Programs > Construction

Advanced Cement Masonry, Pre-Apprentice

Potential earnings range:
$37,336-$76,585*
Per year after graduation

Do you enjoy working with your hands to create and build things? Are you a strong problem-solver? 

Then you may be a good fit for Job Corps’ Advanced Cement Masonry, Pre-Apprentice training program. Pre-apprenticeships are focused on preparing students for a successful experience in a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). That means your hands-on training will be based on industry standards in order to prepare you for high-skill, quality employment.  

On the job, you will ...

  • Place concrete by pouring, leveling and finishing concrete  
  • Color concrete surfaces, expose stones in walls and sidewalks, or make beams, columns or panels  
  • Understand how conditions affect concrete and adjust your work to prevent defects 

Some of the career options you will have ...

Most Cement Masonry Job Corps graduates go to work for construction firms or contractors. 

The credentials you will earn ...

Students training in union-affiliated and national-contracted programs, such as the National Plastering Industry Joint Apprenticeship Trust Fund (NPIJATF), can earn a pre-apprentice certificate of completion that offers registered apprenticeship opportunities and on-the-job experience. 

They will also complete and earn certificates for the following: 

  • 30-hour OSHA training course in Construction Safety and Health 
  • Hexavalent chromium health and safety regulations 

Students should also earn a state-issued learner’s permit and driver’s license upon completion of the program. 

What you’ll need to start training ... 

  • High school diploma or the equivalent (can be earned at all Job Corps centers)
  • Complete a Job Corps basic training program
  • Passing scores on all written and performance tests
  • Meet academic (math and reading) requirements
  • At least 17 years old
  • Positive attendance and progress record
  • Written recommendation from Job Corps center personnel
  • Health clearance at current center
  • Strong work ethic and determination to succeed
* Salary information comes from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Program and is provided for planning purposes only. Actual salary will depend on student skill level, credentials earned, experience level and location.

Need help meeting one or more of these requirements?

Don’t worry! At Gary Job Corps Center, our staff will help you along your journey to make sure you have all the tools and resources you need to check those boxes and start your training.

Meet your instructors_hero

Meet your instructors

Jose Sosa
Jose Sosa graduated from Gary Job Corps Center in 2003 and now serves as a Construction Foundation instructor. After graduating from Job Corps, he earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration at Texas State University. Jose is also an entrepreneur and owns three businesses. He values his students’ success in finding a career in the construction industry.