Masonry (Building and Construction) Course Department

H.O.D MR. ZABLON RANDU MASONRY-BUILDING DEPARTMENT

Welcome to the Masonry Program! This is where your journey to building a strong and successful career in construction begins. Through hands-on training and expert guidance, you’ll master the skills needed to shape the world around you—from laying bricks to creating structures that stand the test of time. Whether you’re dreaming of building homes, designing spaces, or leading construction projects, this program will equip you with the tools to turn your vision into reality. Together, let’s build a future that’s as solid as the foundations you’ll create. Your path to success starts here—let’s construct greatness!

1. Craft Certificate in Building Technology

• Overview: The Craft Certificate in Building Technology aims to provide students with the essential skills needed to succeed in the construction industry. Trainees learn a broad range of technical skills, including masonry, plumbing, carpentry, welding, and architectural techniques using Computer Aided Design (CAD). Graduates of this program can progress to higher levels of study, such as the Diploma in Building and Civil Engineering.
• Core Skills:
  • Masonry: Building and laying blocks, bricks, and stones.
  • Plumbing: Installing and maintaining piping systems.
  • Carpentry: Constructing wood structures like frames, doors, and windows.
  • Welding: Joining metal components for structural integrity.
  • Architectural Design: Using CAD software to create building designs and blueprints.
• Qualifications: A minimum of a D (Plain) grade in high school is required to pursue this course.

2. Masonry Artisan Course

• Overview: This two-year course, tested and examined by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC), equips trainees with the necessary skills for advanced masonry work. The course covers a wide range of topics, including practical masonry, technical drawing, business skills, mathematics, and entrepreneurship. Upon completion, graduates receive an Artisan Certificate and can progress to the craft level, diploma, and degree programs in building and construction.
• Core Skills:
  • Advanced Masonry Techniques: Construction of walls, foundations, and other masonry structures.
  • Business Skills: Managing construction projects and offering services.
  • Mathematics and Technical Drawing: Calculating measurements and creating blueprints for construction projects.
  • Entrepreneurship: Starting and running a business in the construction industry.
• Qualifications: Open to individuals with a KCSE or KCPE certificate. KNEC certificates are required to register for the Artisan final exams.

3. Masonry III (1 Year)

• Overview: This one-year course is designed for individuals who wish to begin their career in masonry. At the end of the course, trainees will be capable of handling various building and construction tasks. The course is examined by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), and students take the final exams in the November/December series.
• Core Skills:
  • Basic Masonry Work: Laying bricks and stones for walls, foundations, and other structures.
  • Safety Standards: Implementing proper safety measures on construction sites.
  • Tool Use: Understanding and utilizing masonry tools such as trowels, levels, and measuring tapes.
• Qualifications: Available to individuals with KCSE, KCPE, or basic literacy (ability to read and write). School dropouts who are literate can also enroll.

4. Masonry II and I (6 Months)

• Overview: These are advanced courses for those who have already completed Masonry III and wish to refine their skills. Grade II and Grade I courses are designed to provide further specialization in masonry work, including larger and more complex construction projects. These courses can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis, with evening classes available for part-time students. Both courses are examined by NITA during the July/August exam series.
• Core Skills:
  • Complex Masonry Projects: Working on large-scale construction such as multi-story buildings.
  • Advanced Construction Techniques: Using modern materials and techniques for stronger, more durable structures.
  • Project Management: Overseeing construction projects and managing teams of workers.
• Qualifications: Students must have passed Grade III with a satisfactory result to join Grade II, and those with a Grade II certificate can proceed to Grade I.

Masonry Career Opportunities

1. Mason (Bricklayer)

• Description: A mason is skilled in laying bricks, stones, and concrete blocks to construct walls, foundations, and other building structures. They work on both residential and commercial construction projects.
• Skills Required: Proficiency in laying bricks and stones, reading blueprints, and using masonry tools.
• Employment Opportunities: Construction sites, contracting companies, or self-employment.

2. Plumber

• Description: Plumbers install and repair piping systems in buildings, ensuring water supply, drainage, and heating systems function properly.
• Skills Required: Knowledge of plumbing systems, problem-solving skills, and ability to use plumbing tools.
• Employment Opportunities: Construction companies, plumbing contractors, or as a self-employed plumber.

3. Construction Supervisor

• Description: A construction supervisor oversees the day-to-day operations on a construction site. They manage workers, ensure safety compliance, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Skills Required: Leadership skills, project management, and knowledge of construction processes.
• Employment Opportunities: Construction companies, project management firms, or self-employment.

4. Builder/Contractor

• Description: A contractor manages entire construction projects, from planning and budgeting to completion. They may specialize in residential, commercial, or industrial projects.
• Skills Required: Project management, financial planning, leadership, and construction knowledge.
• Employment Opportunities: Self-employed as an independent contractor or working for construction companies.

5. Carpenter

• Description: Carpenters are responsible for constructing and installing wooden structures, including frames, roofs, doors, and windows.
• Skills Required: Expertise in woodworking and carpentry techniques.
• Employment Opportunities: Construction companies, carpentry contractors, or self-employment.

6. Welder

• Description: Welders join metal components in construction projects. They may work on structural steel, pipelines, or other metallic frameworks.
• Skills Required: Proficiency in various welding techniques and safety practices.
• Employment Opportunities: Construction sites, manufacturing companies, or as a self-employed welder.

7. Architectural Draftsperson (CAD)

• Description: Architectural draftspersons use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create building plans and blueprints for construction projects.
• Skills Required: Knowledge of CAD software, architectural design, and technical drawing.
• Employment Opportunities: Architecture firms, construction companies, or self-employment.

8. Site Manager

• Description: Site managers oversee the construction site, ensuring that all activities are running smoothly. They coordinate teams, manage resources, and enforce safety regulations.
• Skills Required: Project management, organizational skills, and construction knowledge.
• Employment Opportunities: Large construction projects, self-employment, or construction management companies.

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