In a world driven by fast, cheap construction, masonry remains one of the last true crafts—an ancient trade rooted in durability, artistry, and legacy. Yet, despite its critical role in both new construction and historic preservation, masonry is rarely taught in schools, overlooked in vocational training programs, and misunderstood by the general public. It’s a silent crisis—and Ohio is no exception.
The Lost Art of Building to Last
When people think of construction today, they picture drywall, vinyl siding, and quick turnarounds. But masonry—brick, block, stone, and concrete—is about building structures that can last generations. From iconic landmarks and churches to bridges and chimneys, masonry is the backbone of architecture that stands the test of time.
New construction masonry is essential for strong foundations, load-bearing walls, and fire-resistant buildings. Repair masonry, on the other hand, is a delicate science—requiring deep knowledge of materials, matching historic mortar, understanding weathering patterns, and making structural assessments that many general contractors simply aren’t trained for. These aren’t just physical skills—they’re legacy skills.
What They’re Not Teaching
Today, young tradespeople are entering the workforce without exposure to masonry. Vocational schools focus on carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work—but how often do they teach the methods of laying a plumb wall, striking a proper joint, or mixing lime mortar for a 150-year-old structure?
Even engineering and architecture programs frequently bypass the hands-on reality of masonry systems in favor of theoretical or prefabricated building methods. As a result, we’re seeing a steep decline in the number of skilled masons, and a growing disconnect between design and execution.
Why Ohio Needs This Now
In Ohio, especially in our historic cities like Columbus, Worthington, and Bexley, masonry is everywhere. From pre-Civil War homes to WPA-era government buildings, our architectural identity is brick-and-mortar. And yet, the pool of qualified masons who can restore these buildings properly is shrinking by the year.
We also have booming suburban development and commercial growth that demands skilled masons for new concrete foundations, retaining walls, chimneys, and hardscapes. Without the next generation stepping in, we risk losing not only heritage but also the quality standards for future builds.
Building a National Movement—Starting in Ohio
The need is national, but the solution starts local. Ohio can lead the charge in restoring respect for this craft by:
- Integrating masonry training into high school vocational programs
- Funding apprenticeship and mentorship programs with master masons
- Offering historic masonry preservation courses through trade schools and colleges
- Encouraging women, veterans, and underrepresented groups to explore the trade
- Partnering with unions, contractors, and schools to promote career paths in masonry
At Curatola Masonry, we see this every day—jobs that require more than just labor, but knowledge, precision, and pride. We’re ready to train, mentor, and invest in those who want to build something real, something lasting. But we need help from schools, cities, and state leaders to revive the profession before it’s too late.
Masonry isn’t just a trade—it’s a legacy. And right now, Ohio has the opportunity to become a national leader in preserving and advancing it.