OPCMIA Local 18 Cement Mason & Plasterer Apprenticeship
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Cement Mason & Plasterer Apprenticeship – OPCMIA Local 18 JATF
Program Information
The Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons International Association (OPCMIA) Local 18 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Fund (JATF) offers paid, union-sponsored apprenticeship programs for individuals pursuing careers as Cement Masons and Plasterers. These programs provide hands-on training across a wide range of construction environments, including residential, commercial, industrial, pools, decorative concrete, and architectural finish work. Apprentices develop both technical skill and artistic craftsmanship while working with experienced journey-level professionals on real job sites.
Cement Masons perform concrete placement and finishing work on floors, sidewalks, foundations, pools, and decorative surfaces. Apprentices learn how to apply colors, stains, textured stamping, polishing, and specialty finishes using a variety of tools, machinery, and finishing techniques. This trade combines physical work with creativity, allowing cement masons to leave behind highly visible, long-lasting results that showcase precision and craftsmanship.
Plasterers specialize in interior and exterior wall and ceiling systems. Using hand tools such as trowels, plasterers apply plaster coatings, textures, and finishes that provide durability, fire resistance, acoustics, and visual appeal. The trade is highly artistic, allowing plasterers to transform surfaces into smooth, textured, or decorative finishes limited only by imagination and skill. Apprentices work with traditional and modern plaster systems while learning techniques used in both new construction and restoration projects.
Both apprenticeship programs operate on an “earn while you learn” model, meaning apprentices are paid from day one while receiving structured on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Local 18 operates under an “intent to hire” model with no testing or ranking. Once eligibility requirements are met, applicants are introduced directly to signatory contractors who sponsor apprentices for employment. This streamlined process helps apprentices begin work quickly while maintaining high training standards.
Program Length
- Cement Mason Apprenticeship: 3 years in duration
- Plasterer Apprenticeship: 4 years in duration
- Minimum of 144 classroom hours annually
- Minimum of 1,200 on-the-job work hours annually
- Progressive wage increases as training levels are completed
Hands-On Training
Apprentices receive real-world training in:
- Concrete placement, finishing, coloring, stamping, and polishing
- Decorative concrete and pool finishes
- Interior and exterior plaster application and texture finishes
- Use of hand tools, power tools, and finishing machinery
- Jobsite safety, material handling, and professional work practices
Program Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid photo ID
- Original birth certificate
- $20 application fee (cash only)
- DD214 required for military applicants (if applicable)
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Registration with Local 18 JATF and the U.S. Department of Labor
- Journey-level cement mason or plasterer status upon completion
- Careers in residential, commercial, decorative, and specialty construction
Application Timeline
Applications are accepted in person on the first Monday of each month (excluding holidays) from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM at any Local 18 office. There is no aptitude test or ranking process. Qualified applicants receive a list of signatory contractors and a letter of introduction to seek sponsorship. Once hired by a contractor, applicants complete a drug screening paid for by Local 18 JATF.
Location
OPCMIA Local 18 Joint Apprenticeship & Training Fund
Multiple office locations available
See official website for details
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
This is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you will earn while you learn.
- Paid on-the-job training with increasing wages
- Classroom or technical instruction provided by the program
- No tuition costs — apprentices are paid during training
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
Because apprenticeships are managed through the U.S. Department of Labor, College Scorecard data for tuition and earnings does not apply. Apprenticeships provide real-world experience and a direct path to journeyman-level wages without student debt.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.