Plasterers & Cement Masons Apprenticeship – OPCMIA Local 599
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Wisconsin / Plasterers & Cement Masons Apprenticeship – OPCMIA Local 599
Plasterers & Cement Masons Apprenticeship – OPCMIA Local 599 (Wisconsin)
Program Information
The Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons International Association (OPCMIA) represents one of the oldest and most respected skilled trades organizations in North America. Through its affiliated locals, including OPCMIA Local 599 in Wisconsin, the union provides structured apprenticeship training for individuals pursuing careers as cement masons and plasterers. This apprenticeship is designed to develop highly skilled craftworkers who specialize in concrete placement, finishing, and plaster applications used across commercial, industrial, residential, and infrastructure construction projects.
Cement masons work with crews to pour, level, smooth, and finish concrete surfaces such as floors, sidewalks, curbs, foundations, walls, and highways. Apprentices learn essential techniques including rodding, edging, jointing, screeding, sawing joints, rubbing, patching, and surface repair. This work requires precision, physical stamina, and attention to detail, as concrete is an unforgiving material that demands skill and timing. Many projects take place outdoors, exposing workers to varying weather conditions while contributing to highly visible, permanent structures.
Plasterers specialize in wall and ceiling systems, focusing on surface preparation and finishing techniques that provide durability, fire resistance, acoustics, and decorative appeal. Apprentices learn interior and exterior plastering, texture finishes, plaster veneers, coatings, and specialty applications such as EIFS systems, fireproofing, historical restoration, and decorative finishes. Plaster remains a critical building material in modern construction, combining longevity with architectural versatility.
The OPCMIA apprenticeship emphasizes hands-on learning supported by paid classroom instruction. Apprentices earn wages that increase progressively as skills are demonstrated and experience is gained. The first six months serve as a probationary period, allowing apprentices to demonstrate commitment and aptitude for the trade. Union membership provides long-term career stability, strong wage potential, and access to benefits while preserving the traditions of craftsmanship that have defined the trade for more than 150 years.
Program Length
- Three-year apprenticeship program
- Approximately 4,000 hours of on-the-job training
- 360 hours of paid related classroom instruction
- Wage scale increases systematically throughout the apprenticeship
Hands-On Training
Apprentices receive real-world training in:
- Concrete placement, finishing, and surface repair
- Forming, screeding, jointing, and patching techniques
- Interior and exterior plaster applications and finishes
- EIFS systems, fireproofing, and specialty plaster work
- Blueprint reading, measuring, estimating, and jobsite safety
Program Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- At least 18 years old (or 17 with high school completion)
- Physically capable of performing demanding construction work
- Recommended coursework includes basic math, science, drafting, and shop classes
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Journey-level union plasterer or cement mason status upon completion
- Career paths in commercial, residential, industrial, and highway construction
- Long-term union employment with structured wage growth and stability
Location
Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons Local 599
8701 N. Lauer Street
Milwaukee, WI 53224
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Plasterers & Cement Masons Apprenticeship – OPCMIA Local 599 is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Concrete.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
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.