A skilled work force made the Monticello plantation run. At various times Jefferson hired gardeners, a brewer, masons, smiths, joiners, carriage builders, charcoal burners, and weavers to teach their trades to enslaved men and women. From the age of ten, boys began work in a nail-making shop. Girls started work in a textile shop. Based on their performances, at age 16 they would learn a trade or go to work in the fields.