When I was 18 I started out working as a laborer for a bricklayer. Over the next 2 years I learned the trade myself and became a bricklayer. Of the literally hundreds of employees that my mentor hired and fired during my 7 year employment with him, I was the only person that lasted long term. He was tough, but gave me the skill that will enable me to work the rest of my life. Since he retired, I have worked for 3 other masonry companies as a foreman and project manager. Currently I am an Estimator/Project Manager for the largest Masonry company in the area.