The Operative Plasterers’ & Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA) represents workers in two major segments of the construction industry: concrete and plaster. Both segments have multiple specialty fields and niche markets which are essential to maintaining the variety and quality of construction projects throughout North America.

Cement masons and plasterers are the craftspeople who work primarily with concrete and plaster materials, using a variety of skills and tools unique to this basic trade. An apprentice working as a cement mason will do the “finishing” work that complete jobs like curbs and sidewalks on highways, buildings, and in communities.

Plasterers are craftspeople whose work might include ornamental and decorative plaster installation, restoration projects, sculpting, installing veneers and artificial marbles, or creating molded props for the entertainment industry utilizing the tools, adhesives and skills learned in apprenticeship training.