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Carpenter

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AVG. SALARY

$50,430

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EDUCATION

High school preferred +

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Architecture and Construction cluster Construction pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

High school preferred, plus long term, on-the-job training

Carpenters typically learn on the job and through apprenticeships. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. High school courses in mathematics, mechanical drawing, and general vocational technical training are considered useful. Some technical schools offer associate’s degrees in carpentry. The programs vary in length and teach basics and specialties in carpentry.

Insider Info

Additional Information

Contact a local carpenter and do some job shadowing. It's a good way to see what the job is really like. A good place to start is with carpenters in your area. Talk to a few and find out how they got started.

One of the best ways to ensure steady, well-paying employment is to make sure you have good all-around skills -- the kinds of skills you can get in an apprenticeship program.

An apprenticeship for a carpenter usually takes three to four years. Classroom study alternates with periods of paid work experience.

To become an apprentice, you have to find a company willing to take you on and train you. It's good to start making contacts as soon as you can -- apprenticeships can sometimes be hard to find. Once you become an apprentice, you'll be earning about half what a journeyman (or certified) carpenter makes. As your skill and experience levels increase, so does the pay.

Extra Requirements

Optional programs offer certification by specialty that may allow carpenters to find additional work opportunities or lead to career advancement. For example, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry offers various levels of certification for remodeling. The National Wood Flooring Association offers certification for installers, craftsman, and master craftsman.

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support
  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

Support