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Discover Drew Huey’s journey from high school welder to stone mason. Learn about his path, challenges, and advice for aspiring tradespeople.

From his early days welding in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in high school to becoming a seasoned stone mason, Drew Huey (@thedivinemason)’s journey is a tale of dedication, continuous learning, and authenticity.

Drew Huey Career Spotlight

Authentic Stonework: Drew Huey, Stone Mason

Tradespeople success stories on SkillHero - the top network for tradespeople

Success Story Articles | SkillHero Blog

From his early days welding in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in high school to [becoming a stone mason](https://www.skillhero.works/blog/how-become-mason "Blog: How to Become a Mason"), Drew Huey ([@thedivinemason](https://www.instagram.com/thedivinemason/ "Drew Huey on Instagram"))’s journey is a tale of dedication, continuous learning, and authenticity.

![Drew Huey](//images.ctfassets.net/kdgqb2h1f6o5/6VQts27pxsxJPO4FNMrc3/d58b855b99842b6f8b2aaf99c705f82a/67730211_694277491085860_1635759119818788870_n.png?w=400)

Drew’s career spans various roles and trades, from working in large construction crews to forming small partnerships with other trade professionals and eventually creating his own masonry business. He has tackled a variety of difficult projects, like building a stone mansion, laying intricate flagstone steps, and repointing historical buildings.

> It's tough, but I fell in love with masonry. The most rewarding part is stepping back at the end of the day and seeing what I’ve accomplished. The work was exciting and different every day, and I love the physical and creative aspects of it.

*In this skilled trade feature, SkillHero sits down with Drew to delve into how he found his passion in the trades, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned along the way. Check out our [Instagram post spotlighting Drew](https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8rdOgAu92V/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== "Drew Huey Spotlight (Instagram)"). You can also [view this Q&A on our LinkedIn account](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/authentic-stonework-drew-huey-stone-mason-skillhero-spotlight-nduce/?trackingId=eoiPLoJZyuZMWZFtMj5wuw%3D%3D "Drew Huey Spotlight (LinkedIn)") This dialogue aims to enlighten aspiring trade professionals on the opportunities and personal growth the skilled trades offer. Let’s dive in!*

## Q&A with Drew Huey, Stone Mason
__SkillHero:__ Tell us about your journey in the skilled trades. How did you get started?

__Drew Huey:__ The [Warren County Career Center](https://www.wcsdpa.org/o/wccc "Warren County Career Center website")’s welding program was a game-changer for me. It not only provided a practical skill set and sparked my passion for the trades, but also gave me the extra credits I needed to graduate. I didn’t learn the best in a traditional classroom setting, so a hands-on learning environment was a perfect alternative.
The skills I was taught opened up opportunities, and toward the end of high school, I began working part-time at a construction company applying the skills that I was learning in my welding program. Once I graduated, it evolved into a [full-time welding role](https://app.skillhero.works/career-explorer/trades/welder "SkillHero Career Explorer: Welder").

![Drew Huey - Mason - Mansion](//images.ctfassets.net/kdgqb2h1f6o5/3VpAzgq7RLs76ghcJ43X8A/72055fdda16ba093c3e4904962f459e9/IMG_0375.png?w=400)

But for me, after a few years of welding, I was growing tired of it. I admired the mason crew, often seeing them and other tradespeople coming in and out of the yard while I was stuck somewhere working on a weld. My company allowed me to shadow the masons and soon they started taking me along on jobs. My first job with them was working on a huge stone house. It was tough, but through that project I fell in love with masonry.

__SkillHero:__ What aspects of masonry do you find most rewarding?

![Drew Huey - Completed Stonework - Mansion](//images.ctfassets.net/kdgqb2h1f6o5/78Bnt5QDcP0mhy0g42DiJr/e9d5d2d63ddcc5c12fd790c615662ce2/IMG_2171.png?w=400)

__Drew Huey:__ Overall, the work is exciting and different every day, and I love the physical and creative aspects of it. The most rewarding part is stepping back at the end of the day and seeing what I’ve accomplished. It’s amazing to see a structure you’ve built from the ground up. Masonry is also a valuable career path because there’s always work—chimneys, foundations, fireplaces. Plus, it’s physically engaging, keeping me fit while continuing to work on my trade.

__SkillHero:__ How did you hone your craft in masonry?

__Drew Huey:__ There was a steep learning curve, especially with measuring and ensuring everything fits perfectly the first time. I remember one of my bosses saying laying stone is easy, but there’s so much more to it—like measuring out so you don’t end up with a weird measurement in the middle, and making sure everything works right.

![Stone Fireplace](//images.ctfassets.net/kdgqb2h1f6o5/2HqmGV3UArSKJOFPGYyLQq/7cd1ba2d7cf21ce3bc7091b39b248c5b/IMG_0843.png?w=400)

There’s a lot of math and technique that goes into it, so learning from experienced masons was crucial. My first bosses were tough but taught me a lot about breaking bonds, doing corners, and estimating costs and materials. You can always watch YouTube tutorials, but hands-on experience and learning from seasoned professionals make a huge difference.

__SkillHero:__ What advice would you give to someone interested in masonry?

__Drew Huey:__ Get your hands on some basic tools like a trowel, slicker, and grinder, and start applying for any construction jobs to get your foot in the door. Skilled labor is in high demand. Joining a union [as a trainee or apprentice](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/authentic-stonework-drew-huey-stone-mason-skillhero-spotlight-nduce/?trackingId=eoiPLoJZyuZMWZFtMj5wuw%3D%3D#:~:text=as%20a%20trainee%20or%20apprentice "SkillHero Opportunities") is another great way to start. Getting involved, asking questions, and learning on the job are key.

![Drew Huey - Stonework](//images.ctfassets.net/kdgqb2h1f6o5/JNqw96W1FmhntlJH9QKJa/03110fdecc914446e4ecfea2f9b5170e/IMG_0776.png?w=400)

When considering specialties, repointing (repairing masonry that’s already done) is a great place to start. It gives you a good idea of how something was created, and through fixing it, you’ll gain an understanding of what could’ve been done better in the first place to improve the quality of the stonework.

__SkillHero:__ How has the industry changed since you started?

__Drew Huey:__ Everything has gotten more expensive, and there’s a shift towards using cheaper materials like stick-on stone, which is like molded concrete made to look like stone. While it’s more affordable and in demand, I prefer working with real stone. It’s more authentic, rewarding and durable. Technology has also advanced, making some tasks easier, but the essence of masonry remains the same.

__SkillHero:__ What’s it like running your own business versus working for someone else?

__Drew Huey:__ There’s pros and cons. Running your own business gives you freedom and the potential for higher earnings, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities and stress. You have to manage materials, handle clients, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Working for someone else is more relaxed—you just show up and do your job without worrying about the logistics, but you earn less.

When I am working for myself, it is a huge mental load. You’re responsible for every step of the job, including financial responsibilities like creating estimates and calculating taxes. But working for someone else, all those things are taken care of.

__SkillHero:__ What are your future plans in masonry?

__Drew Huey:__ I aim to get back into running my own business but with a team. Working alone can be tough, and having a team makes the work more enjoyable and efficient. My brother is a carpenter, and we’re talking about starting a construction company, offering a range of services from masonry to carpentry to welding. My future is all about creating a relaxed, fun, and productive work environment.

## Inspiring the Next Generation of Tradespeople
![SkillHero: Mason](//images.ctfassets.net/kdgqb2h1f6o5/7H0xzrdhsWVlWp9d1XfytN/e9fc2cae6021e343ae896f34d7505c39/1718984858859.png?w=400)

Drew Huey’s journey underscores the value of [becoming familiar with the opportunities available in the skilled and craft trades](https://app.skillhero.works/ "SkillHero"). For aspiring tradespeople, Drew’s experiences offer valuable insights into the rewards and realities of a [career like welding or masonry](https://app.skillhero.works/career-explorer "SkillHero Career Explorer").

At SkillHero, we are dedicated to supporting skilled workers like Drew by [providing access to career education, mentorship, and job opportunities](https://app.skillhero.works/ "SkillHero"). By connecting students and underemployed individuals with a community of experts and employers, SkillHero aims to build fulfilling, lifelong careers in the trades.

Join us in empowering the next generation of skilled professionals!

From his early days welding in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in high school to becoming a seasoned stone mason, Drew Huey’s journey is a tale of dedication, continuous learning, and authenticity.

Authentic Stonework: Drew Huey, Stone Mason (SkillHero Spotlight)

Do you like working with your hands and crafting beautiful and practical works? If so, you might be interested in learning to become a mason...

how to become a mason in america

How to Become a Mason in America in 2023

Tutorials, guides, and how-to articles for beginner and intermediate workers in the skilled trades who want to increase their career options.

Career Guides

Do you like working with your hands and crafting objects and structures that are beautiful and practical? If so, you might be interested in learning to become a mason. Masonry is a respected and complex construction trade which has existed for a long time and will remain in demand for many years to come.

Whether you envision yourself as a stone mason shaping breathtaking structures from natural materials, or a brick and block mason constructing functional and beautiful buildings, the SkillHero app can help you get started and grow your career.

Claim your [free SkillHero account](https://app.skillhero.works/) to join our community of students and skilled trade workers. You'll get access to opportunities, training programs, and resources specifically tailored to masonry and other skilled trades.

Sign up for your free account now, then finish reading this article so you can make a plan to kick off your career!

## What is a mason and what do they do at work?
A mason is a skilled trade worker who specializes in working with materials such as bricks, stones, concrete, plaster, and tiles to construct or repair structures. Their work ranges from installing and repairing floors to crafting artistic structural elements such as walls and pillars.

Masons are responsible for measuring and cutting materials to size, mixing mortar or cement to the correct consistency, and applying it to form a strong and durable bond between the masonry units.

There are a number of trade paths available to masons with most focusing on a specific type of materials. These include stonemason, brickmason, concrete mason, marble mason, plasterer, tile mason, and general mason. Some experienced workers may have multiple specializations, or may need to work with other specialists on complex projects.

A typical day in the life of a mason begins with assessing the project at hand and planning the layout of the masonry work. They may work on various construction sites, including residential, commercial, or industrial buildings.

Once the layout is determined, masons measure and cut bricks or stones to fit the desired shape and size. Next they mix mortar or cement, using their expertise to determine the correct ratios and consistency. 

Masons utilize tools such as trowels, chisels, hammers, and levels to ensure accuracy and elegance in their work. They often work in teams, collaborating with other skilled workers to complete larger projects efficiently.

### Is working in masonry difficult?
Working in masonry can be challenging due to the necessity of physical fitness, construction skills, and the potential hazards involved. Masons are often required to lift heavy materials, such as bricks and stones, and work in unsavory weather conditions.

Masonry workers need physical strength, strict adherence to safety precautions, and an understanding of mortar and caulking materials and building material.

Despite the challenges, those with a passion for craftsmanship and a drive for hard work can find fulfillment and success in this field.

Because of the durable materials used in masonry, this trade plays a unique role in the construction field and has done so for thousands of years.

### What's the average salary for masons?
Masons can earn a range of salaries depending on their level of expertise and several other factors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, [masons](https://app.skillhero.works/career-explorer/trades/mason) at the apprentice level earn an average salary of around $36,180 per year. As they gain experience and become journeymen, their average earnings increase to $49,490 annually. Masters with years of experience and advanced skills can earn an average salary of $82,780 or more.

![average salary masons in america SkillHero](//images.ctfassets.net/kdgqb2h1f6o5/4iQFOr2TzTXEHa7aIvYWHd/f1847238739acc76123fd5d42f7cbbd8/average_salary_masons_in_america_SkillHero.png)

It's important to note that these figures are national averages and can vary based on other factors. For example, masons working in cities with a high cost of living such as New York or San Francisco may earn higher wages compared to those in rural areas.

Specialization within the trade, such as working with specific types of brick, stone, or concrete blocks can also impact earnings.

## How to become a mason in the United States
Getting the right training and finding job opportunities can be challenging in any trade these days. The [SkillHero app](https://app.skillhero.works/) is designed to help potential tradespeople start and thrive in their careers, but we can only help you find the path.

Luckily the masonry industry is quite accessible for anyone who has the stamina, strength, and discipline required. Masonry doesn't require much formal education, but there are college degrees that can enhance your career if you choose to obtain one.

### Get a high school diploma or equivalent credential
Having a high school diploma or equivalent credential is crucial for individuals pursuing a career in skilled trades, including masonry. This educational qualification establishes a strong foundation of knowledge and demonstrates a level of dedication and commitment to future employers.

If you don't have a high school education, alternative methods of demonstrating your knowledge are available. One popular option is to obtain a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. The GED test assesses an individual's knowledge in essential subjects and is widely recognized by employers and educational institutions.

You may find GED resources and testing centers through your local school district, community colleges, and adult education centers. These institutions often provide preparation courses to help you pass the GED exam and obtain your certificate.

### Create a skilled trade resume
Creating a skilled trade resume is essential for showcasing your qualifications and landing an ideal job. Our resume builder assembles your data into a clean template and includes a database of vetted industry skills you can easily add as appropriate.

You can maximize your exposure to potential employers by applying to career opportunities on the SkillHero platform and exporting [your resume](https://www.skillhero.works/blog/skilled-trade-resumes) as a PDF to share elsewhere.

### Find an apprenticeship
Apprenticeship programs are a key for giving masonry contractors practical experience on the job. Apprenticeship training gives beginner masons the chance to learn from seasoned professionals who have years of experience in the field.

With a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, apprentices can gain enough experience to quickly move into a specialization such as brick mason or block mason, focusing on the specific skills needed for those projects.

Completing a masonry apprenticeship gives you an industry-recognized qualification that greatly improves your employability. Many apprenticeships are likely to lead to ongoing work as a journeyman with higher pay and more responsibility. 

To kickstart your career in masonry, sign up for a [free SkillHero account](https://app.skillhero.works/) and explore our library of resources and opportunities.

### Expand and upgrade certifications
Continuing to expand and upgrade your certifications is vital in today's rapidly evolving skilled trade industries. By pursuing advanced courses and industry-specific licensing, you gain the knowledge and expertise needed to stay competitive.

Upgrading your education and gaining new certifications is an investment in yourself. It demonstrates your dedication to continuous improvement, boosting your confidence and employability. SkillHero can help you find educational openings and local events to increase your knowledge and network.

## Who should become a mason?
Masonry is an ideal career path if you enjoy working with your hands, paying attention to detail, and taking pride in producing high-quality work.

You'll need both physical and mental strength to succeed in this trade. Being able to work outdoors in different weather conditions and being willing to perform physically demanding tasks is  essential. 

While there's lots to learn, you can start with an apprenticeship under experienced masons and earn while you learn to gain foundational skills.

Masonry offers a variety of specializations which can be highly valuable to construction companies, restoration projects, homeowners, and landlords.

If you're seeking a career that combines craftsmanship, creativity, and stability, this might be the answer. Sign up for a [free SkillHero account](https://app.skillhero.works/) to access everything you need to launch your career as a skilled mason.

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Authentic Stonework: Drew Huey, Stone Mason (SkillHero Spotlight)

How to Become a Mason in America in 2023