In masonry, success isn’t just measured by straight lines, tight joints, or the perfect arch—it’s built on the strength of your team. Over my 25+ years in this industry, I’ve learned that no matter how skilled you are as an individual, your legacy is determined by the people you train, trust, and grow with.
Building an amazing masonry team goes far beyond hiring bodies to lay brick or stone. It’s about creating a culture where craftsmanship is valued, growth is encouraged, and every member understands they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves. Here’s how I believe you build a team that doesn’t just work—but excels.
1. Hire for Character, Train for Skill
Masonry is a craft, and like any craft, skills can be taught. What you can’t teach is work ethic, integrity, and pride in doing things the right way. I’ve always prioritized hiring people who show up hungry to learn, who care about quality, and who understand the value of teamwork. The best masons aren’t always the ones with decades of experience—they’re often the ones willing to listen, improve, and own their work.
2. Invest in Education and Certifications
If you want excellence, you need to invest in it. From sending team members to certification programs to hands-on training in historic restoration techniques, I make it a priority to ensure my crew is constantly growing. An educated team is a confident team—and confidence leads to higher-quality work and greater client trust.
3. Create a Culture of Pride and Accountability
Great teams aren’t built on fear or micromanagement—they’re built on shared pride. When your crew understands that every wall, chimney, or facade they touch carries your company’s name, they start holding themselves to higher standards. Celebrate wins, highlight excellent craftsmanship, and encourage accountability when things fall short. A culture where people care about the final product as much as you do is invaluable.
4. Promote Collaboration Over Competition
The trades can sometimes feel cutthroat, but I’ve found that the best results come when your team sees each other as allies, not rivals. Encourage mentorship within your crew—pair seasoned masons with younger apprentices, and foster an environment where questions are welcomed, not criticized. When knowledge is shared, everyone levels up.
5. Lead From the Front
If you want a team that shows up early, works hard, and pays attention to detail, you need to embody those values every day. Leadership in masonry isn’t about barking orders from the truck—it’s about being willing to get your hands dirty, demonstrating craftsmanship, and showing respect to every member of your crew, from laborers to lead masons.
6. Balance Efficiency with Quality
In today’s fast-paced construction world, it’s easy to prioritize speed over craftsmanship. But I believe the best masonry teams understand how to work efficiently without cutting corners. Teach your team that doing it right the first time saves more time—and reputation—than rushing through a job that will need repairs later.
7. Take Care of Your People
At the end of the day, your team is your greatest asset. Pay them fairly, recognize their hard work, and create opportunities for advancement. When people know they’re valued, they’ll go the extra mile—not just for you, but for the pride they take in their craft.
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Final Thoughts
Building an amazing masonry team isn’t about luck—it’s about leadership, vision, and commitment to a higher standard. At Curatola Masonry, we don’t just build walls—we build careers, confidence, and a legacy of craftsmanship that will stand long after the mortar has cured.
If you’re in the trades, remember: tools and materials are replaceable—your team isn’t. Invest in them, lead them, and watch what you can build together.
— Justin Curatola
Founder, Curatola Masonry