Training Programs & Safety and Health

From paid apprenticeship programs to long-term union construction careers in bricklaying, masonry, tile, and terrazzo, BAC Local 5 provides the training, wages, and benefits you need to succeed in the construction industry.

Stack Your Future in 3 Steps

01

Pre-Apprenticeship

Get your foot in the door. Learn the basics of masonry, jobsite safety, and what it takes to succeed in the trade while preparing for entry into the apprenticeship program.

02

Apprenticeship

Earn while you learn. Combine hands-on jobsite experience with classroom training as you develop your skills, build hours, and start earning union wages and benefits.

03

Journeyman

Become a certified skilled bricklayer. Work on major projects, earn top union pay, and enjoy long-term career stability backed by BAC Local 5.

BAC Local 5
Your Questions Answered

Careers FAQ

Starting a career in bricklaying or masonry comes with questions—and we’ve got answers. Explore some common questions about union apprenticeships, training, and career opportunities with BAC Local 5.

No prior experience is required. BAC Local 5 offers paid apprenticeship and training programs that prepare you for a successful career in bricklaying, masonry, tile, terrazzo, and other skilled trades.

BAC Local 5 members work in high-demand skilled trade careers including bricklaying, masonry, tile setting, terrazzo, and related construction crafts across commercial, industrial, and residential job sites.

Union careers with BAC Local 5 offer competitive wages, health insurance, retirement and pension benefits, steady work opportunities, and ongoing training for long-term career growth in the construction industry.

Step 1

Pre-Apprenticeship

We’re looking for people who are eager to work, show up on time, and take pride in building something that lasts. If you’re motivated, dependable, and ready to learn, this is your opportunity to get hands-on exposure to union construction work while preparing for a long-term career in the masonry trades.

Apprentices work alongside experienced union craftworkers on active job sites, gaining real-world experience in trades such as bricklaying, masonry, tile, terrazzo, and related construction work. Duties may include assisting with material handling, site preparation, tool use, and learning basic trade skills while following all safety standards.

Requirements

Step 2

Apprenticeship

BAC Apprenticeship & Training Programs provide training for union members. The programs are registered with the U.S. Department of Labor governed by a Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (J.A.T.C.) made up of both Labor and Management. Local, Regional, and National Training Centers are available to serve the needs of our members and signatory contractors.

Step 3

Journeyman

Journeymen with BAC Local 5 perform skilled work in bricklaying, masonry, tile, terrazzo, and related trades. Members take pride in building safe, lasting structures while upholding the highest standards of workmanship, safety, and professionalism. Whether you’re looking for steady work, better benefits, or a stronger union presence, BAC Local 5 offers opportunities to grow and stay working.

Journeymen with BAC Local 5 earn competitive union pay, access full benefits, and gain the support of a strong local union that values experience, skill, and solidarity.

Benefits

BRICKLAYER

Bricklayer

Bricklaying is the oldest and most highly respected of the construction trades. A bricklayer is a skilled craftperson, who using their talents and training is able to properly position masonry units of all types such as, brick, block, stone, granite, glass block, and precast materials to create efficient, beautiful buildings and other structures.

POINTER, CAULKER, CLEANER (PCC)

POINTER, CAULKER, CLEANER (PCC)

PCC is probably the most diversified trade in the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union. A Pointer or Tuckpointer removes and replaces morter between masonry units. The Cleaner aspect is the cleaning of all masonry surfaces. A Caulker applies sealants to expansion joints in new and old buildings.

REFRACTORY WORKERS

REFRACTORY WORKERS

Refractory work requires the bricklayer to install a variety of fire brick. Training is also provided to apply gunite to various refractory materials of all types of manufacturing and refining facilities.

TILE, MARBLE AND TERRAZZO

TILE, MARBLE AND TERRAZZO

Tile, marble and terrazzo add great beauty and permanence to construction projects where they are used. To combine such skilled craftwork and artistry requires specialized training. The recently updated Tile curriculum is the result of months of study and research, proficing a training course for this craft.