Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin Career Overview

As a Plasterboard Technician, you play a vital role in the construction and renovation industries. Your responsibilities center on the installation and finishing of plasterboard, commonly known as drywall, which serves as a fundamental component of building interiors.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Installation: You are responsible for measuring, cutting, and installing plasterboard sheets, ensuring they fit perfectly within wall and ceiling frameworks.

  • Finishing: After installation, you apply tape, joint compound, and sanding techniques to create a smooth surface, preparing it for painting or other decorative treatments.

  • Repair and Maintenance: Your skills are essential in repairing damaged plasterboard, helping to maintain the aesthetic and structural integrity of buildings.

  • Collaboration: You often work alongside general contractors, electricians, and plumbers to coordinate activities and ensure that installations meet project timelines.

  • Quality Control: Attention to detail is important in your work as you help guarantee that the finished surfaces meet the required specifications and are ready for the final design elements.

The role of a Plasterboard Technician is significant in shaping the comfort and aesthetics of residential and commercial spaces. Your craftsmanship not only influences the immediate environment but also contributes to the overall quality and durability of construction projects. By ensuring that plasterboard is expertly installed and finished, you help create spaces that are functional and visually appealing.

Plasterboard Technician Salary in Wisconsin

Annual Median: $59,040
Hourly Median: $28.39

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin

To become a Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin, you need to complete specific educational programs and training. Below are the recommended college degree programs that will prepare you for this career:

  • Appliance Installation and Repair Technology

    • This program enables you to gain knowledge about the installation, maintenance, and repair of various appliances, including how they relate to plasterboard installation in residential and commercial settings.

  • Building Construction Technology

    • This degree covers the fundamentals of building construction, including materials and methods. It provides you with a solid foundation in the principles of construction that are essential for working with plasterboard.

  • Building Construction Finishing Management and Inspection

    • This program focuses on the finishing aspects of construction, including plasterboard installation. You will learn how to manage projects and conduct inspections, which are crucial for ensuring quality in plasterboard work.

  • Drywall Installation

    • This specialized program concentrates specifically on the skills required for drywall and plasterboard installation. Courses often cover techniques, tools, and safety practices necessary for effective and efficient installation.

  • Drywaller

    • A program dedicated to training individuals as drywall specialists, focusing on plasterboard installation techniques, finishing, and repair. This training is tailored toward those wishing to excel specifically in drywall work.

These educational pathways provide you with the requisite knowledge and technical skills to pursue a career as a Plasterboard Technician.

Best Schools to become a Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin 2024

#1Hall County

Central Community College

Grand Island, NE

In-State Tuition:$2,820
Out-of-State Tuition:$4,230
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:6,519
#2San Diego County

CET-San Diego

San Diego, CA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:79%
Total Enrollment:196
#3Wilkes County

Wilkes Community College

Wilkesboro, NC

In-State Tuition:$2,432
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,576
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:2,321
#4Sacramento County

American River College

Sacramento, CA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,480
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:27%
Total Enrollment:27,422
#5Pierce County

Clover Park Technical College

Lakewood, WA

In-State Tuition:$5,277
Out-of-State Tuition:$5,277
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:2,788
#6Marion County

Ivy Tech Community College

Indianapolis, IN

In-State Tuition:$4,487
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,777
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:89,705
Plasterboard Technician Job Description:
  • Apply plasterboard or other wallboard to ceilings or interior walls of buildings.
  • Apply or mount acoustical tiles or blocks, strips, or sheets of shock-absorbing materials to ceilings and walls of buildings to reduce or reflect sound.
  • Materials may be of decorative quality.
  • Includes lathers who fasten wooden, metal, or rockboard lath to walls, ceilings, or partitions of buildings to provide support base for plaster, fireproofing, or acoustical material.

Plasterboard Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Wisconsin

  • Technical Proficiency: You must have a strong understanding of plasterboard products, their uses, and installation techniques. Familiarity with tools and equipment specific to plasterboard installation, such as drywall saws, taping knives, and power drills, is essential.

  • Measurement and Calculation: Being able to accurately measure spaces and calculate the amount of plasterboard material required is key. This includes understanding how to read blueprints and building plans to ensure correct material placement.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision in your work is vital to ensure that plasterboard is cut and installed correctly. You will need to pay close attention to alignments, seams, and the overall aesthetics of the finished product.

  • Problem Solving: Encountering challenges during installation is common. Your ability to think critically and find effective solutions will help you overcome obstacles and maintain project timelines.

  • Physical Stamina and Strength: This job often requires lifting heavy materials and working in various physical positions. Good physical condition and stamina are important for maintaining productivity throughout the workday.

  • Time Management: You must be able to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to meet deadlines during project completion. This includes planning your workflow to maximize efficiency.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for collaborating with team members, contractors, and clients. You need to be able to clearly convey project requirements and any issues that may arise.

  • Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety standards and regulations in the construction industry is crucial. You should be skilled in using personal protective equipment (PPE) and understanding safe work practices to prevent accidents on the job.

  • Finishing Techniques: Proficiency in applying finishing touches, such as taping, mudding, and sanding, is important for achieving a smooth and professional appearance.

  • Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing project conditions, materials, and technologies will enhance your effectiveness as a technician. Being flexible and open to continuing education on new methods and products will keep your skills relevant.

Job Duties for Plasterboard Technicians

  • Fit and fasten wallboard or drywall into position on wood or metal frameworks, using glue, nails, or screws.

  • Measure and mark surfaces to lay out work, according to blueprints or drawings, using tape measures, straightedges or squares, and marking devices.

  • Read blueprints or other specifications to determine methods of installation, work procedures, or material or tool requirements.

Technologies and Skills Used by Plasterboard Technicians

Accounting software

  • Job costing software

Project management software

  • DevWave Estimate Works
  • Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal

Word processing software

  • Microsoft Word
  • Wilhelm Publishing Threshold

Basic Skills

  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin

The job market for Plasterboard Technicians in Wisconsin reflects a steady demand shaped by several factors, including the ongoing growth of the construction industry and the rising need for residential and commercial building renovations.

  • Demand: There is a consistent demand for skilled Plasterboard Technicians. The ongoing construction and renovation projects across the state contribute to this need, as new housing developments and commercial projects increase. Additionally, demand for repair and maintenance work in existing structures sustains the need for professionals in this field.

  • Growth Potential: The growth potential within the plasterboard sector is promising. As the construction industry is projected to expand, so too will the need for technicians proficient in hanging, finishing, and repairing plasterboard. Trends in green building practices and innovative construction methods may also enhance opportunities for skilled technicians who can adapt to new materials and techniques.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Milwaukee: As Wisconsin's largest city, Milwaukee offers a high volume of construction activity, including residential and commercial projects. The urban environment generates a constant need for skilled labor, including plasterboard technicians.
    • Madison: The state capital and home to several educational institutions, Madison has a dynamic housing market with ongoing developments that require skilled technicians.
    • Green Bay: As a growing city, Green Bay shows a rising trend in new residential communities and commercial establishments, further increasing the demand for plasterboard installation and maintenance.
    • Kenosha: Kenosha's revitalization projects and suburban expansions create numerous job opportunities for plasterboard technicians, benefiting from both new construction and renovation undertakings.

The combination of ongoing projects and the anticipated growth in construction bodes well for those pursuing a career as a Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin. Engaging with local trade organizations and staying connected with industry trends can further enhance your job prospects in this field.

Top Related Careers to Plasterboard Technician 2024

Sheetrock Specialist
Acoustic Ceiling Specialist
Wallboard Installer
Ceiling Systems Installer

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin

  • National Gypsum Company
    Explore the resources provided by one of the leading manufacturers of gypsum board products. Their website includes technical specifications, installation guidelines, and safety information.
    National Gypsum

  • American Gypsum Company
    This company offers extensive resources about plasterboard, including product information and installation best practices. Their resource center contains helpful guides for technicians.
    American Gypsum

  • Gypsum Association
    The Gypsum Association provides technical documents, product standards, and testing resources relevant to gypsum board and associated products. Membership is available for professionals seeking further engagement.
    Gypsum Association

  • Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
    Learn about the licensing and safety regulations for construction professionals in Wisconsin, including any requirements specific to plasterboard work.
    Wisconsin DSPS

  • International Association of Drywall Applicators
    This organization offers training resources, certifications, and networking opportunities for drywall professionals, including plasterboard technicians.
    IADA

  • Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)
    Gain insights into construction documents, specifications, and industry standards that could benefit your work as a plasterboard technician.
    CSI

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
    Access guidelines on safety standards applicable to construction workers, including handling and installing plasterboard materials safely.
    OSHA

  • National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
    This organization provides research, best practices, and advocacy resources aimed at housing industry professionals, including those working with plasterboard.
    NAHB

  • YouTube Channels related to Construction Skills
    Search for specialized channels that offer practical demonstrations and training on plasterboard installation and finishing techniques. Examples include "This Old House" and "DIY Pete" for practical tips and tutorials.

  • Local Trade Schools and Apprenticeship Programs
    Research local trade schools in Wisconsin that offer courses in drywall installation and finishing. Apprenticeship programs can provide hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities.

These resources will help you further develop your knowledge and skills in the plasterboard industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin

  • What is a Plasterboard Technician?
    A Plasterboard Technician specializes in installing and finishing plasterboard, also known as drywall, in residential and commercial buildings. Their work ensures walls and ceilings are prepared for paint or other finishes.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin?
    Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed vocational training and/or have experience in construction. Certifications related to drywall installation may also be beneficial.

  • Is formal education necessary for this career?
    While formal education is not strictly necessary, completing a training program or apprenticeship in drywall installation can enhance your skills and job prospects.

  • What skills are essential for a Plasterboard Technician?
    Important skills include:

    • Proficiency in measuring and cutting plasterboard accurately
    • Ability to work with tools and heavy equipment
    • Knowledge of safety procedures
    • Attention to detail for finishing work
    • Strong physical stamina and strength

  • What does a typical workday look like for a Plasterboard Technician?
    A typical day involves measuring spaces, cutting plasterboard to size, installing, and finishing the boards (taping, mudding, and sanding). You might also need to collaborate with other construction professionals on-site.

  • How much does a Plasterboard Technician earn in Wisconsin?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and employer. As of 2023, the average salary for a Plasterboard Technician in Wisconsin ranges between $40,000 and $60,000 per year.

  • What is the job outlook for Plasterboard Technicians?
    The job outlook is positive due to ongoing demand for residential and commercial construction. Factors like urban expansion and housing development also contribute to a steady need for skilled technicians.

  • What are the working conditions for this career?
    Plasterboard Technicians often work in construction environments, which can be physically demanding. This may involve working on ladders, in confined spaces, and exposure to dust and debris.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this field?
    Yes, with experience, you can move into supervisory roles, project management, or even start your own contracting business. Additional certifications can also help you advance.

  • Do Plasterboard Technicians need to travel?
    Travel requirements may vary. Some may work locally on multiple job sites, while others might be contracted for specific projects that require travel outside their immediate area.

  • What safety precautions should Plasterboard Technicians follow?
    Safety is paramount. You should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), follow OSHA guidelines, and ensure tools and equipment are used safely to minimize risk of injury.