What Is a Carpenter?
Carpenters work with wood and other materials to complete a variety of construction projects. A career in carpentry requires the ability to read blueprints, lay out projects, cut wood, and assemble different materials. They are also responsible for ensuring their work is accurate and in compliance with building standards. Heavy lifting, climbing ladders, standing for prolonged periods, and working in all types of weather might make this occupation physically demanding. Carpenters often work overtime.
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Carpenter Requirements
| Degree Level | A high school diploma or equivalent is required; associate's degree preferred |
| Degree Field | Carpentry |
| Training | 3-4 year apprenticeship |
| Key Skills | Manual dexterity, attention to detail; strong math and problem-solving skills; strength, stamina, focus; basic computer skills and experience using a variety of hand and power tools including chisels, levels, sanders, saws, and nail guns |
| Median Salary (2020)* | $49,520 (for carpenters) |
Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*Net OnLine.
Steps to Becoming a Carpenter
Step 1: Complete an Apprenticeship
Being admitted to a carpentry apprenticeship program is the most common path to becoming a carpenter. Apprenticeships, which generally take 3-4 years to complete, offer on-the-job training along with classroom instruction. This program is a good way to gain necessary expertise with the tools of the trade and how to best avoid strain or injury.
An apprentice must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and high school graduate. Potential apprentices are also subject to drug screenings. Individuals are educated in subjects such as carpentry techniques, blueprint reading, safety practices, and scaffold construction. For each year of an aspiring carpenter's apprenticeship, he or she will complete at least 144 hours of technical training and 2000 hours of practical training in the field.
Success Tip
Develop a fitness routine. A carpenter's job can be very taxing physically; they work on their feet, both indoors and outdoors, and sometimes in small spaces. Following a fitness regimen may be a good way to stay in shape and build physical stamina.
Step 2: Consider a Carpentry Degree or Certificate
Though it is not mandatory to break into the profession, aspiring carpenters may complete formal carpentry programs at technical schools or colleges. This formal training offers additional experience in the trade. Diploma, certificate, and associate's degree programs are all available in carpentry. Educational coursework includes building codes, concrete work, blueprint reading, roof framing, building materials, tools, building layouts, and fasteners. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that credit earned during an apprenticeship program may be applied to an associate's degree program.
Step 3: Develop Marketable Skills
Construction jobs tend to fluctuate by geographic location and current economy. Carpenters may choose to enhance their skills by specializing in infrastructure or renovation or by taking courses in Spanish. Carpenters who speak both English and Spanish may be better positioned for advancement in the field, since they can effectively communicate with workers on their teams.
Carpenter Salary and Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, carpenters made a median annual salary of $49,520 as of May 2020. There is 2% projected job growth between 2020 and 2030; jobs will stay essentially the same over the next few years, the BLS predicts. There are currently over a million carpentry jobs in the United States alone.
FAQs
How Long Does it Take to Become a Carpenter?
In terms of formal education, if you choose to get an associate's degree, you will likely be studying for two years. You will then need to complete an apprenticeship that will take you between three and four years. In total, you will therefore be able to become a carpenter after five or six years of training. Your personal experience may vary given apprenticeship opportunities in your area, whether you get an associate's degree, and more.
How Much Does Carpentry School Cost?
The tuition that you may need to pay for various carpentry schools will vary across the country and will depend on several factors. If you are getting an associate's degree, you will need to pay more than if you are only receiving a certificate. Community colleges tend to have lower tuition than universities. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, a two-year college program costs an average of around $10,000. However, many vocational training programs like carpentry will be less costly.
What Does it Take to be a Carpenter?
Carpenters work with wood as well as a variety of materials to complete construction projects and must have the ability to read blueprints, use tools safely and effectively, and carry out projects. There are many different options when it comes to carpenter education, and they must complete an apprenticeship before becoming a carpenter. Carpenters need the following skills:
- Physical strength
- Manual dexterity
- Ability to perform self-directed work
- Excellent attention to detail
- Ability to follow safety protocols
- Ability to liaise with clients
- Knowledge of some basic first aid in case of accidents on the job
