Owen Heimbach, a senior from Daniel Boone and a Masonry student at BCTC, is proving that hard work and hands-on learning pay off. After earning 2nd place in the 2025 National SkillsUSA Masonry Competition, Owen is now gaining real-world experience through a co-op with Zook Masonry.
Working four days a week, Owen is currently assigned to the closest jobsite, which is in Mt. Joy, where he is laying concrete block for a municipal building. His current pay rate of $59.00 per hour reflects the competitive wages and benefits required for skilled labor on a government-funded infrastructure project. Owen works alongside an experienced masonry crew in all types of weather conditions, gaining valuable on-the-job experience.
Balancing school and work, Owen takes one class at Daniel Boone before heading to the jobsite, working from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. “I like being on co-op because I can be out at work and don’t have to be in school all day. I can be making money in the trade I’ve been practicing at BCTC for a couple of years,” he shared.
Owen credits BCTC for launching his career. “I wouldn’t know how to do masonry or have known about my employer,” he said. When asked what advice he would give to younger students, Owen encourages them to consider career and technical education. “Come to tech, it is great. You have opportunities you wouldn’t have at your regular school. If you are coming into the construction field, make sure you focus on your math classes.”
Looking ahead, Owen will compete in Masonry again at SkillsUSA this school year, beginning with the district competition in December 2025. With strong skills, industry experience, and a clear passion for the trade, Owen is building a solid foundation for a successful future in masonry.