Carpenter
From foundations to finishing, professional carpenters contribute to a variety of jobs throughout a project and are responsible for bringing blueprints to life. They rely on specialized techniques that have evolved over hundreds of years to measure, cut, join, erect, and finish materials for jobs of all sizes. While a sturdy hammer and reliable circular saw are essential parts of every toolbox, modern carpenters also work with computers and tablets to read digital layouts and control advanced equipment like robotic total stations.
Work Performed by Carpenters
Carpenters are highly-trained and reliable professionals whose skills, experience, and problem-solving abilities allow them to deliver quality work safely and consistently. As a carpenter apprentice, these are just a few of the jobs you’ll have the opportunity to take on:
- Build structural frames and concrete forms
- Install drywall and acoustical ceilings
- Erect steel studs and install insulation
- Complete interior and exterior finishing
Carpenter Apprenticeship Program Overview
To graduate from carpenter apprentice to journeyworker, you’ll complete 7,000 hours of on-the-job training (OJT) and 640 hours of classroom learning. Completion hours may vary depending on the region you belong to. Carpenter apprentices will be evaluated through demonstrations of skill and technique, and standard knowledge exams.
Average earnings for all first-year students:
- $33,436 – $46,363 + benefits*
Sample courses:
- OSHA, First-Aid/CPR/AED, aerial lift, blueprint reading
- Wood Wall Framing, Power and Air Tool Safety
- Metal Stud Framing, Drywall Installation
- Introduction to Concrete Forms, Construction Fall Protection
On-the-job training & classroom hours:
- 1,700 hours of OJT
- 160 hours of classroom
*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.
Average earnings for all second-year students:
- $45,600 – $63,200 + benefits*
Sample courses:
- “40-Hour Scaffolding” qualification
- Concrete – footings, instruments, elevations, angles
- Wood Framing – roofs, stairs, related math, blueprint layout
- ICRA “Health Care Construction,” Firestop qualification
On-the-job training & classroom hours:
- 1,700 hours of OJT
- 160 hours of classroom
*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.
Average earnings for all third-year students:
- $51,666 – $71,646 + benefits*
Sample courses:
- Interior Systems – radius math, metal framed soffits and ceilings, layout
- Concrete – wall forms, column forms, elevations
- Exterior Finishes – windows, doors, soffits, siding, shingles
- Interior Finishes – cabinets, plastic, laminate, shelving, handrails, trim
On-the-job training & classroom hours:
- 1,700 hours of OJT
- 160 hours of classroom
*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.
Average earnings for all fourth-year students:
- $57,748 – $80,077 + benefits*
Sample courses:
- Concrete – elevated deck forms, metal wall forms
- Wood Framing – build large project, layout
- Acoustical and Drywall Ceiling Framing, Advanced Soffit Framing, Introduction to Lathing
- Commercial Door Hardware, “Stepping Up to Foreman”
On-the-job training & classroom hours:
- 1,700 hours of OJT
- 160 hours of classroom
*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.
Average earnings:
- $60,789 – $ 84,295 + benefits*
*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.
Average earnings:
- $72,485 – $97,010 + benefits*
*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.
Average earnings:
- $98,100 – $131,018 + benefits*
*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.
It Doesn’t Stop at Journeyworker
After successfully completing your apprenticeship and becoming a journeyworker, there’s still opportunity to further advance your career. You may oversee a crew on a job site as a leadperson, or become a foreman or project superintendent. You may even go on to start your own company! Whatever your goals, Carpenters Training Institute will work with you to achieve them.
Continuing Education Courses
- Aerial Lift & Rough Terrain
- Welding
- OSHA
- ICRA: Infectious Control Risk Assessment
- And many more!
Get a Head Start on Your Degree
Completing the carpenter apprenticeship program at Carpenters Training Institute satisfies a portion of the credit requirements for a two-year associate degree at several technical and community colleges in the Midwest.