Masons Training Program Prepares Apprentices for Future
Governor Lingle joined the Hawai`i Masons and Plasterers union in honoring the winners of the 18th Annual Hawai`i State & 11th Invitational Apprenticeship Contest for Bricklayers, Masons, Cement Finishers, Plasterers and Tile Setters.
Governor Lingle and Masons and Plasterers Union Management Trustee Lawrence Correa congratulate Yakov Tarayanik, first place winner of the Plasterer Contest.
"The Masons Training Program is fulfilling a vital role in the current economic and construction industry environment," said Governor Lingle. "Through their participation in the program, apprentices gain not only self-esteem but also confidence in their craft."
The Governor also highlighted the inspirational story of Steve Britt, a blocksetter apprentice who, through the help of the Masons and Plasterers Union, was able to overcome his troubled past.
"Now employed by a local construction company, Steve appreciates the union for helping him succeed and calls it 'the best thing that has happened' in his life, except for his kids," Governor Lingle shared.
A total of 38 apprentices in the Hawai`i Masons and Plasterers Training Program participated in this year's contest.
Nine bricklayers/masons created a structure from scratch; 13 cement finishers created stairs, a curb and a gutter; five plasterers applied different finishes to walls and cornice; and 11 ceramic tilesetters followed a set of plans to create a specific tile design on a bench.
The program is a joint effort between the Hawai`i Masons Union and various construction contractor organizations to train apprentices to become journeymen. It is a four- to five-year process that includes 8,000 work hours and 432 school hours.
