Careers in Carpentry
Did you know that actor Harrison Ford used to be a carpenter? He worked at his craft right up to the day he landed the role of Han Solo in the film Star Wars. Most carpenters don’t aspire to movie stardom. They love what they do and are happy to build rewarding careers far from the limelight.
Carpenters work with wood. They use their specialized knowledge of materials, methods, and tools to build and repair houses, industrial plants, bridges, docks, boats, furniture, and many other things.
Carpentry projects may be very different, but most involve the same basic steps. Working from blueprints or instructions from supervisors, carpenters start by carefully measuring, marking, and arranging materials. They use hand and power tools to cut and shape those materials, then join them together with nails, screws, staples, or glue. Throughout each project, carpenters use levels, plumb bobs, and framing squares to make sure everything is straight and smooth.
The majority of carpenters work in the construction industry. In fact, carpentry is the largest construction trade with about 1.5 million carpenters working on residential and commercial buildings.
There are also many carpenters employed outside the construction industry. They perform a variety of installation and maintenance work, build and repair cabinets and furniture, make musical instruments, work on boats, and create theatrical sets for movies and TV.
Carpenters live and work everywhere. Where there are people, there are houses, factories, stores, and office buildings. Carpenters are employed throughout the country in almost every community. Those who live in cities often work for large construction companies that hire crews of dozens or even hundreds of carpenters. The work is split up and each crew member will do one or two specific carpentry tasks such as framing or trimming. Carpenters working in smaller communities are less likely to specialize and will usually put a broader range of skills to good use.
There is a high demand for carpenters. It is one of those professions that can’t be out-sourced, and is recession-proof. Due to high turnover and the never-ending need for more buildings, there will always be jobs for those who want them. The prospects are excellent for those entering the field.
Job opportunities are best for well-trained carpenters with diverse skills. But you can start your career as a carpenter straight out of high school. Most learn the trade on the job, working as apprentices or helpers to more experienced carpenters. It takes three to five years to complete an apprenticeship. Some prefer to go to school, and then take an entry level helper’s position. It takes less than one year to complete a typical carpentry program at a trade school or community college. It is an excellent way to quickly learn the many different facets of the carpentry profession.
In addition to knowledge and skills, a carpenter must be physically fit, be a good team worker, and be detail oriented. You will need to invest in your own set of tools and be willing to develop your math and organizational skills.
If you are willing to work hard, hone your craft, and take pride in your workmanship, you could enjoy a satisfying career with good pay, job security, and opportunities for advancement. You could even own your own company someday. Read on to learn how you can easily get started in this excellent career.
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