Florida Masonry Apprentice & Educational Foundation
Statement of Need
The development of a skilled masonry workforce is of critical need in Florida and across our nation. As promotion of block and concrete as the safe and sustainable building option, the continued need for a skilled masonry workforce will continue to be a demand nationally. School districts and the industry have invested considerable time, effort, and resources in working to create rigorous CTE masonry related programs, advisory boards, and career pathways for high school students, apprentices, and re-entry individuals. Industry has realized successful transition of Florida students into the masonry workforce pipeline through this initiative.
Consistent and portable training credentials, recognized by industry, are the critical piece in developing an overarching pre-apprenticeship/apprenticeship mindset for training individuals looking to enter the masonry trades. The design and implementation of a standardized Mason Tender Industry Credential utilizing NCCER’s nationally recognized curriculum, using both written and performance evaluation techniques, based on industry standards, allows for students/trainees or entry level workers to display mastery of Mason Tender knowledge/skills and assess accordingly.
Benefits of Mason Tender Certification
The overarching goal is the strengthening of a Masonry Career Pathway for all pre-apprentice/apprentice participants while providing the masonry industry with an accredited Mason Tender Certification. The FMAEF will work with school districts, colleges, apprenticeship programs, corrections locations, masonry associations, and contractors to develop, implement, promote the creation of a state and nationally recognized Mason Tender Certification. There are several benefits to industry and education that support this initiative. A Mason Tender Credential will:
- Provide employers with identifiable training/competency of applicant while hiring.
- Provide training facilities/programs with an entry level skill attainment level.
- Provide for new certification-based, short-term training options with community organizations and workforce development.
- Provide a standardized training and assessment platform for state and national masonry programs.
- Provide contractors with a method to assess employees on Mason Tender knowledge and skills.
Mason Tender Competencies
The following competencies will be assessed for knowledge and practical mastery based on industry standards. The knowledge and skills assessments are designed to assess the test takers pedagogical understanding of these common Mason Tender skills:
Mason Tender Knowledge Exam Competencies
The following competencies will be assessed for Mason Tender knowledge mastery based on industry standards. The knowledge assessment is designed to assess the test takers pedagogical understanding of these common Mason Tender skills:
JOBSITE SAFETY – Test takers shall be able to explain and display the importance of safety in the construction and industrial crafts. Test takers will be able to identify and follow safe work practices and procedures and how to thoroughly inspect and use safety equipment. Test takers will be able to describe the safety practices associated with masonry tools, equipment, and materials; elevated work; energy release; and various hazards encountered on job sites.
CONSTRUCTION MATH – Assesses test takers basic math skills needed in the construction environment. This section consists of whole numbers and fractions; the four primary math operations; reading rulers and tape measures; basic geometric figures; and area and volume calculations for two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects.
SOFT SKILLS – Assesses test takers the information and skills needed to communicate effectively and clearly. Developing good communications skills enables the construction professional to become a confident, reliable asset to their craft. In addition, tests participants in the areas of problem-solving and effective interaction with others is offered to help ensure their success in the construction trades.
MASON TENDER SKILLS – Test takers will display their knowledge about basic masonry materials, tools, techniques, and safety pre-cautions; explain and display the types and properties of mortar; how to mix mortar by hand; set up masonry units for a safe and efficient worksite; properly utilize masonry tools: and describe the skills, attitudes, and abilities of successful masons. Test takers will explain and display appropriate safe use of masonry specific lifting equipment and assembling and disassembling of scaffolding.
Mason Tender Skills Assessment Scoring Rubric
Participant to be evaluated on the tasks below. A minimum score of 24 is needed to pass assessment. Any safety violation will result in termination of assessment. Only trained performance evaluators may score participant work. Multiple evaluations will be averaged for final score.
Mason Tender Skills Assessment Scoring Rubric
