About JATC Apprenticeship
A Plasterer and Cement Mason apprentice is taught the skills and knowledge of the trades through a combination of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.

Welcome:
The Apprenticeship:
​
- A good job and a rewarding career
- No previous experience is required
- Earn while you learn
- Excellent Benefits
- Ability to retire with a pension
- Stay up to date with industry changes and best practices
- Learn the job skills you need to succeed as a journeyperson
- On the job training to develop marketable job skills
​
​
The Requirements:
​
- You must be 18 years of age
- Must have a valid State issued ID
- You must have your actual Social Security Card
- You must be physically able to perform all
the work of the trade
- You must be able to read and write English
- You must pass a drug test (Yes, they test for Marijuana)
- You must have your own transportation
to get to and from work
​
​
Plasterer and Cement Mason Apprenticeship
Objective:
To develop and enhance the skills of cement and plasterers masons, progressing apprentices to journeyman level and advancing journeyman to master status. This program aims to ensure high standards of craftsmanship, safety, and professionalism.
Program Duration:
The apprentice program is designed to last for 3 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Journeyman advancement training will be an additional 2-year specialized program.


Structure:
Year 1: Introduction and Basic Skills
• Orientation:
- Introduction to the trade
- Overview of safety protocols and personal
protective equipment (PPE)
- Understanding basic tools and equipment
• Basic Skills Development:
- Mixing and applying cement and plaster
- Basic formwork and reinforcement techniques
- Surface preparation and finishing techniques
• Classroom Instruction:
- Construction math and measurements
- Basic blueprint reading
- Introduction to building codes and standards
Year 2: Intermediate Skills and Techniques
• On-the-Job Training:
- Advanced formwork and scaffold erection
- Working with various types of cement
and plaster materials
- Techniques for different surface textures
and finishes
• Special Projects:
- Small scale independent projects
under supervision
- Repair and restoration projects
• Classroom Instruction:
- Intermediate blueprint reading
- Estimating materials and cost calculations
- Environmental and safety regulations


Year 3: Advanced Skills and Leadership
• On-the-Job Training:
- Complex formwork and reinforcement
- Decorative and architectural
plastering techniques
- Supervising small teams on projects
• Special Projects:
- High complexity restoration projects
- Independent project management
with minimal supervision
• Classroom Instruction:
- Advanced construction techniques
and materials science
- Leadership and communication skills
- Project management basics
​
As an apprentice, you will receive OSHA 30 Safety Training, CPR and First Aid Training. Today's apprentice will also train in Fireproofing and Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS).