Apprentice Programs Teach Skills, Responsibilities

Anthony Monarrez built this brick planter while learning his trade through a BAC apprentice program.

Antonio Monarrez has held several jobs, but none have proved quite as rewarding as the opportunities offered by the masonry industry. He’s labored on Louisiana’s Oil Patch offshore oilrigs, worked as a maintenance engineer, and driven a truck.

Hearing of the opportunities available in the construction industry from his brother, a Union bricklayer, Monarrez decided to enroll in a BAC apprenticeship program through Local 21 Illinois. Quick to learn, the Chicago native excelled at the hands-on and written curriculum, receiving commendations from his instructors. He soon went to work for BAC signatory contractor Mulligan Masonry of Aurora, Illinois, where he is still employed.

“Working as a bricklayer gives me variety,” says Monarrez. “I like to move around to different jobs instead of going to the same place day after day. Right now, I’m finishing one job and starting work on a new church across town.”

“The work is both physically and mentally challenging. I’m in pretty good shape, so heavy work does not pose any real problems for me. I enjoy the challenges presented by different types of projects and different building techniques. Every foreman and crew has their own way of doing things, from building leads to finishing a project. The job demands that you learn new techniques to keep up with the pace of work,” says Monarrez.

Monarrez also appreciates the challenges associated with working as a Union bricklayer and has already taken on some of the important responsibilities that come with Union membership.

“I was recently called up for picketing duty by Pete Marinopoulos, my Business Manager. I knew from my days in apprentice class that being a good Union member was an important component of this profession, and I was prepared to go out and stand up for my Local. I enjoy the benefits that I have, good insurance, and a lot of the little extras like discounts on movie tickets. By standing up, we guarantee that our standard of living and our benefits are protected.”

When not plying his trade around Chicago, Monarrez is busy helping his wife raise their three daughters. “I stay very busy, but I do make time for my family and my favorite pastimes of hunting and fishing. In October, I’ll be taking a little time off for salmon fishing with my father,” says Monarrez with a tone of anticipation.

Continuing education is also important to Monarrez, as he plans to receive certification in welding and training with Autoclave Aerated Concrete block. “I’m looking forward to additional training at the new Illinois District Council 1 Training Center,” says Monarrez. “I plan on becoming a foreman some day and this kind of continuing education will help me get there.”