Career: Carpenters
Carpenters enjoy working on a variety of projects. They cut, fit, and put together wood and other materials for the construction of buildings, highways, bridges, docks, factories, and many other structures.
If you become a carpenter, you might build the forms used in the concrete construction of a new office building. Or you might put up the walls of a new home. On the other hand, you might add the finishing touches, such as moldings, to a restored Victorian dining room.
Carpenters construct, install, and repair structures made of wood, such as building frameworks, wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors.
Did You Know?
- Carpentry is the largest trade in the construction industry.
Are You Ready To...?
- Read blueprints
- Double check your work for accuracy
- Take measurements
- Make calculations
- Learn building codes
- Follow safety rules
- Use hand and power tools to cut and shape materials
- Join materials with adhesives or hardware
- Sand wood
- Put up scaffolding
It Helps to Be...
Physically strong and good with your hands. It also helps to be a good problem solver, able to work well on your own and as part of a team.
Make High School Count
- Get a good foundation in math. Take algebra and geometry, which will help you take precise measurements and make accurate calculations in your work later.
- Sign up for mechanical drawing and shop.
- Pay attention in English. As a carpenter, good communication skills will help you read blueprints, safety warnings, and written instructions and give clear directions to others.
- Learning Spanish can also be useful since many of your co-workers will speak the language.
- Volunteer with programs like Habitat for Humanity.
Did You Know?
- General contractors value versatility: they need carpenters who can do everything from raising rafters to hanging kitchen cabinets.
Outlook
Government economists expect average job growth for carpenters through 2016, compared to growth in other careers. Continued construction and remodeling will increase the demand for carpenters.
On the other hand, new technology could slow job growth for carpenters. Inventions like pre-hung doors help carpenters get more work done in less time. So fewer carpenters are needed to complete each job.
Keep in mind also that the construction industry rises and falls with the economy and, in many cases, the temperature. You may be unemployed during times of slow growth and poor weather.
Compensation
The average yearly salary for carpenters in 2007 was $41,260, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Keep in mind that apprentices start work at only a percentage of the salary earned by a journey-level worker. You can expect to receive raises throughout your training though, often every six months.
Outdoor carpentry is subject to bad weather, which can cut into your hours and your paycheck. Good weather, on the other hand, can translate into overtime pay as contractors push to make up for lost time.
