Mason Tender Course Creates Career Opportunities for Young Workers

If you want to see the importance of teaching the next generation of masons, look no further than BAC Local 1 Saskatchewan. In partnership with International Masonry Institute, BAC Local 1 SK facilitated a Mason Tender course at Darby Morin Center on Big River First Nation in September. Under the program, a group of young mason tenders worked on a school and hockey rink built by signatory contractor City Masonry. Upon finishing the course, 12 of them were hired by both signatory contractors City Masonry and Brxton Masonry.

BAC Local 1 SK President Derek Halldorson believes the course set an example that other Locals can follow. “The course was a huge success. BAC Local 1 SK Aboriginal Journeyworker bricklayer Harley Whitehawk instructed the course and did an amazing job mentoring and instructing these young workers. He showed them valuable skills that they will be able to use going forward in their careers,” Halldorson says. 

Whitehawk says programs like the Mason Tender course benefit both the Union and young indigenous workers. Contractors get to mentor future workers and young masons acquire skills that lead to job opportunities. “It is a win-win for all. I’ve seen many other reserves with a lot of native workers willing to get out there and work, which is especially good for indigenous communities. More young indigenous workers are coming into the trades and exploring the different opportunities they have in life.”

Halldorson says the course will continue to build long-term partnerships with indigenous communities around the province as well as provide members in these communities with lifelong careers.