Bricklayers open new training facility.

The International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 4 has expanded its state-of-the-art training programs with the opening of its new International Masonry Institute in Morristown, New Jersey. The center provides 12-week training in bricklaying techniques and has graduated more than 80 men and women in the past two years. Local 4 is a member of the New Jersey State Building and Construction Trades Labor Management Council (LMC).

The International Masonry Institute provides apprenticeship and skill training to more than 2,600 members of the Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 4, which includes bricklayers active throughout northern New Jersey, including Bergen, Hudson, Passaic, Essex, Warren, Hunterdon, Sussex, Morris, Somerset, Union and Middlesex counties.

According to Bill DeRenzis apprentice coordinator, the comprehensive training program provides hands-on craft experience as well as an overview of a wide range of construction industry skills and knowledge. "Our focus is to build a career, not just find our apprentices a job," he explained.

In addition to bricklaying, the program offers instruction in plastering; concrete finishing; pointing, cleaning and caulking; laying of all types of stone and autoclaved aerated concrete; blueprint-reading; welding; OSHA compliance; first aid and an instructor certification program. The expanded curriculum offerings will include Raining systems for plastering and scaffolding similar to those offered at the union's training facility in Fort Ritchie, Maryland.

"Our focus is to teach multiple skills, including the finer points in bricklaying," added DeRenzis. "We want our trainees to possess the skills to handle the difficult tasks, such as laying out walls, creating corners and working closely with apprentices during on-the-job training."

Enrollees are accepted on a year-round basis, and the outdoor training area is subject to the weather elements to simulate on-the-job conditions. To be eligible, applicants must possess a high school or equivalency diploma; be at least 18 years of age; submit to and successfully pass a drug test; and, if necessary, complete a physical examination to ensure the individual can perform heavy lifting. The applicant also must have transportation. Once accepted, each student receives a $50 weekly stipend for incidental expenses, masonry tools and a $600 bonus upon successful completion of the program.

After three years of apprenticeship, graduates achieve journeyperson status. They are also eligible for college courses Local 4 has developed in cooperation with Rutgers University and the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

"This unique program offers our members an opportunity to pursue college-level, for-credit classes that are customized for the skilled labor and construction industry," said Gerald Della Salla, business manager for Local 4. "Our goal is to create a career path for personal and professional growth."

According to Frank Wade, executive director of the LMC, the Institute is an example of the initiatives labor unions are taking to enhance the quality and reputation of their artisans. "Exceptional training also translates into a safer work site," he said.