Learn how to mix and use mortar using various tools and equipment. Trowel handling of mortar to lay brick and block.
New Entrant
If you are new to the masonry trade and have little or no formal training in masonry, then this is the stream for you. The OMTC drop-in masonry training program will give you basic trade skills and knowledge that, when successfully completed, will give you the job relevant skills for employment. Please note it is not a level 1 apprenticeship program.
Program Overview
The OMTC Masonry Drop-In program was designed to help individuals who could not attend the longer, full-time pre-apprenticeship programs, because of when the program is offered or work/family commitments. Instead of going to class every day for the full day, you will be able to select time slots of 4 hours each, to come in and do hands-on training under the supervision of an OMTC instructor, when you have the time to do so. You will have to check the booking system regularly to see the times that are available. There may be evening and/or weekend time slots available from time to time. Booking is on a first come, first served basis.
The program is based on a curriculum that you will need to complete to satisfactory levels. There will be an OMTC instructor to teach and help you learn the masonry techniques that are required. You will also receive safety training. Safety training and equipment training will be scheduled at specific times and if you wish to receive this training you must attend when it is scheduled. It will not be offered on other dates. If you do not attend on the specified date, you will have to get the mandatory safety training on your own in order to work on a job site. Please see the curriculum outline here.
There are requirements for how often you come to train and the total length of time you will have to complete the training cycle. You must attend at least 4 sessions a week and you will have 120 days to complete the program. If you complete the full cycle of training, you will receive a certificate of completion from OMTC.
How to register for the program
- Fill Out the Registration Form:
As a new entrant, start by completing our registration form. Make sure to answer all mandatory questions and click “submit” when finished.
- Schedule an Interview:
After you submit the form, an OMTC representative will contact you to set up an interview. This interview will provide more details about the program and the masonry trade. You’ll also have a chance to ask your own questions. For more information, you can check our FAQ.
- Interview Outcome:
During the interview, we’ll let you know if you’re accepted into the program or placed on a wait list.
- Receive Login Info:
If accepted, you will receive an email with your username and password for our booking system. Before logging in for the first time, you’ll need to review the OMTC policies and sign off on the general Code of Conduct for training at OMTC.
- Important Deadline:
Note that registrations for new entrants will close on March 31, 2025 to ensure there’s enough time to complete the program before mid-March.
Booking and Attending Training Sessions
Time Slots:
Training sessions are scheduled in 4-hour time slots. Shorter sessions are not available due to setup and cleanup time.
You must use the entire time slot; leaving partway through is not allowed according to our policies.
Booking Process:
1. Receive Login Info:
Check your email for a link, username, and password to our booking portal.
2. Log In:
Click the link and enter your username and password.
Click “Log In.”
Review Policies:
Read the pop-up notification with our rules and policies.
Click “Agree” to continue.
Choose a 4-hour time slot from the booking system.
Confirm your selection to finalize your booking.
Review our policies to understand rules regarding attendance, conduct, and absenteeism.
Please Bring the Following Documentation on Your First Day
- Driver’s License and Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Proof of Education: Grade 10 or equivalent
- Code of Conduct to be signed in person
Your first time attending the program you will be;
- Shown around the training centre so you know are familiar with it,
- Shown your workstation,
- Given a brief overview of what you can expect for your next several time slots in terms of training
- This will include being told what tools you will be using
- A demonstration of how to do the skills you will be focusing on
- The instructor will be available to help you if you need it.
Curriculum
• Trowel skills (spreading mortar) (~40 + hours)
• Laying to the line (Block and Brick) (~40+ hours)
Use Masonry Training Station to learn how to lay brick and Block to line
• Cutting units (hammer, portable and table saws) (~20 hours)
Use hand and power tools to cut masonry units
• Removing mortar joints (grinder and arbortech) (~40+ hours)
Use hand and power tools to remove hardened mortar
• Repointing procedures (~40+ hours)
Learn how to use hand tools to repoint mortar
• Removing and Replacing Brick or other masonry units (~20+ hours)
Learn how to remove and replace units
• Scaffolding (~20 hours)
Learn to assemble and disassemble scaffolding
• Membrane application (~20 hours)
Learn how to install air/vapour barrier
• Safety Training Certificates
- Working at heights(8 hours)
- WHMIS (online)
- Worker Health and Safety Awareness in 4 Steps (online)
OPTIONAL
- Scissor Lift (This training is optional and requires that you have passed Woking at Heights, WHMIS and 4 Steps)
- Boom Lift (This training is optional and requires that you have passed Woking at Heights, WHMIS and 4 Steps)
These training modules will be scheduled on a set date. It will be your responsibility to be available on that date to receive this training as part of this program, at no cost to yourself. If you miss the scheduled dates for this training and certification you will have to take the safety training on your own, at your own cost.
Note: The hours that are marked with “ ~ “ are approximate. It may take you less time or slightly more time to achieve a satisfactory performance of these tasks.