To learn the carpentry trade, students build cabinets, coffee tables, sheds, entertainment centers, end tables, and more. Architectural woodworking, blending traditional woodworking with sophisticated computer skills, is a valuable skill students also learn. Safety is emphasized. Students work on framing, carving, joinery, architectural woodworking, and finish carpentry. To simulate real-world work conditions, students work independently and in groups. Carpentry 2 students begin working outside jobs including building decks and sheds. Carpentry 3 students work in the community, building job expertise, enhancing their resumés, and learning interview skills. Selected students enroll in the cooperative education program, working in the field while still attending school once a week.
What can you do with your Carpentry Technology career training?
Carpenters measure, cut and install wood, metal, plastic, fiberglass, engineered lumber, and concrete to fit. Carpentry ranges from rough framing to repairs to furniture construction. Carpenters who work for construction companies may specialize while self-employed carpenters may perform a wide variety of tasks including installing doors and windows, constructing buildings, and building decks. Some carpenters specialize in finish carpentry or build fine furniture.
Training you need:
Generally, carpenters need 3-4 years of training. Most carpenters get their experience through a combination of high school vocational programs and on-the-job experience.
Where you can work:
About 34% of carpenters are self-employed. About 32% work in building construction, 23% work for specialty trades. Carpenters frequently switch between working for others and self-employment as jobs become available.
What you can earn:
On average, carpenters earn $13.55 - $23.85 per hour. Salaries are higher for business owners or those with special skills and experience. Union carpenters usually command higher salaries and benefits.
Career outlook:
Job growth will be about 10% over the next 10 years. A wide range of skills generally means more regular employment. Managers who speak Spanish and English have an advantage as many workers speak Spanish. Mill shops building furniture and cabinets, and system-built (modular) construction provide other career options.
Equipment/software you will learn to use:
Power tools include table saw, band-saw, jointer, planer, sanders, lathe, drill-press, skill-saw, jig-saw, router, biscuit jointer, saws-all, Ramset, nail-guns, screw-gun, drill, tap-con systems, and electric carving tools.
Certifications or Licenses You May Earn While in High School:
- Carpentry Technology Program Certificate
- 10-hour OSHA Construction Safety Training
What kind of job can you get with this training?
Carpenter's helper, carpenter, first-year apprentice, concrete form builder, framer, roofer, door/window installer, cabinet and furniture maker, flooring installer, architectural woodworker, stair builder, boat builder, system-built (modular) home construction, insulation installer, set design and construction, and others.
With additional training/education, what jobs are available?
Construction manager, licensed contractor, home builder, furniture restoration, set construction for theatres and movies, and many more careers which require a knowledge of construction and joinery.
What you should know...
This program prepares students with skills to ensure their long-tern career success. Additional training is encouraged. Many students attend colleges such as Wentworth Institute of Technology and universities offering engineering and architecture. Some students go into the Carpenters Union and begin their apprenticeship. QHS carpentry training is valued by the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. Graduates can get an immediate head start in the apprenticeship program and boost their pay!
Recommended Course of Study
Grade 9
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Pathways
1 Elective Course
Grade 10
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Carpentry 1
Grade 11
English
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Carpentry 2
Grade 12
English
Social Studies
Physical Education
Carpentry 3
2 Elective Courses