6 answers
Hunter
Student
North Adams, Massachusetts
1
Question
Updated
1635 views
What is a good way to get a job as a carpenter?
I have taken a shop in my highschool that already teaches me thing i need to know ti become a carpenter
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6 answers
Dave Sisler
Graphic Communications Manager Digital Production Specialist & Marketing Consultant
6
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Dave’s Answer
Hello,
Continuous learning is important. Talk to your guidance counselor to plan your path. You can take classes at city colleges while in high school, like drafting and architecture, to help your career. Trade schools are also a good option and can even help you get a General Contractor's License.
Stay focused and keep learning,
Dave
Continuous learning is important. Talk to your guidance counselor to plan your path. You can take classes at city colleges while in high school, like drafting and architecture, to help your career. Trade schools are also a good option and can even help you get a General Contractor's License.
Stay focused and keep learning,
Dave
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Hunter
Robert Kunkel
Manager Labor Relations
7
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Reach out to your local Carpenters Union to start the process for the apprenticeship test. Passing the test will open the door to a paid training program, setting you on the path to becoming a skilled carpenter. The union's website is a great resource with all the details you need to schedule your test and find answers to any questions you might have.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Hunter
Megan Kelly
3
Answers
Redding, California
Updated
Megan’s Answer
You may go to local construction companies. You could ask if you could volunteer somewhere as well in the event they do not hire under 18. I would also recommend asking the teacher that taught your class. You may be able to start with cabinets or countertops. Something to get you in that type of trade and around construction type people.
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Hunter,
As someone with carpentry and woodworking experience, its great to hear you are looking to get into it! There are a few directions you can to to find the kind of work and environment you would like to be in.
Firstly, job searching will give you a great idea as to what might be within the job market. Use various job searching sites as well as regular internet searches. Look up all the different places that are near you that might peak some interest. Get them in order for where you would like to be the most as the priority.
However, not all workshops/studios/firms post of these apps. Some will post within their social media pages. This will also be a great way to search what places are near you and potentially hiring.
If no one is hiring, don't stop there. Reach out to them or anyone working there and express your interest. You might not want to ask for a position right away. First, express your interest in their work and see if they would be willing to give you a tour. Maybe you can even show up to show face and say hello. Maybe, even observe them for the day. Eventually, you can ask if they need any help. Emphasize your skills, willingness to learn, and what you like about that place specifically and what you can bring to the table. If you are able to, offer to volunteer for a bit. It can potentially lead to something more, and if not it can still be a good experience for your learning and resume.
Best of luck to you and your search!
As someone with carpentry and woodworking experience, its great to hear you are looking to get into it! There are a few directions you can to to find the kind of work and environment you would like to be in.
Firstly, job searching will give you a great idea as to what might be within the job market. Use various job searching sites as well as regular internet searches. Look up all the different places that are near you that might peak some interest. Get them in order for where you would like to be the most as the priority.
However, not all workshops/studios/firms post of these apps. Some will post within their social media pages. This will also be a great way to search what places are near you and potentially hiring.
If no one is hiring, don't stop there. Reach out to them or anyone working there and express your interest. You might not want to ask for a position right away. First, express your interest in their work and see if they would be willing to give you a tour. Maybe you can even show up to show face and say hello. Maybe, even observe them for the day. Eventually, you can ask if they need any help. Emphasize your skills, willingness to learn, and what you like about that place specifically and what you can bring to the table. If you are able to, offer to volunteer for a bit. It can potentially lead to something more, and if not it can still be a good experience for your learning and resume.
Best of luck to you and your search!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1091
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Hunter,
I am glad you found an interesting career through school. You could e.g. work in construction, or as a kitchen installer or you could even look into cabinet making and furniture design.
There are several ways to train as a carpenter and find employment. You could take formal classes at a Community College or Trade/Technical School. You could participate in an appreticeship program. You can also start as a construction helper and learn on the job.
I left a couple of links for you below. You can also use Indeed.com to search for carpentry jobs or apprenticeships.
Talk to your school guidance counselor what local resources they might have. Locate businesses in your area and ask if they can offer training.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/carpenters.htm
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-carpenter
https://www.mccanntech.org/educational-programs/vocational/carpentry
https://explore.skillup.org/boston/training/masshire/carpentry-apprentice-training-program
https://www.nasctf.org/
I am glad you found an interesting career through school. You could e.g. work in construction, or as a kitchen installer or you could even look into cabinet making and furniture design.
There are several ways to train as a carpenter and find employment. You could take formal classes at a Community College or Trade/Technical School. You could participate in an appreticeship program. You can also start as a construction helper and learn on the job.
I left a couple of links for you below. You can also use Indeed.com to search for carpentry jobs or apprenticeships.
Talk to your school guidance counselor what local resources they might have. Locate businesses in your area and ask if they can offer training.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Hunter,
I think the previous responses to your question offer great advice. One important point to keep in mind is that, down the road, you may want to start your own business. Taking business classes is valuable because they teach you skills that go far beyond the job site and can really set you up for long-term success. Many carpenters eventually become independent contractors or open their own businesses, and that requires more than just hands-on ability you need to know how to manage money, price jobs accurately, create estimates, handle taxes, and market your services. Business classes can also help you develop professional communication, time management, and decision-making skills, all of which are essential whether you’re running your own company or working your way up in someone else’s.
It’s also VERRY wise to think about the future and have a plan for when you’re older and may not be able to do the physical work anymore. Carpentry can be demanding on your body, so having business knowledge can open doors to less physical roles like project management, estimating, consulting, or even owning and managing a construction business. Planning ahead now gives you more control over your career path and helps ensure that your skills can still support you even after your time on the tools comes to an end. In short, a strong foundation in business can turn a skilled carpenter into a successful and adaptable professional for years to come.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
I think the previous responses to your question offer great advice. One important point to keep in mind is that, down the road, you may want to start your own business. Taking business classes is valuable because they teach you skills that go far beyond the job site and can really set you up for long-term success. Many carpenters eventually become independent contractors or open their own businesses, and that requires more than just hands-on ability you need to know how to manage money, price jobs accurately, create estimates, handle taxes, and market your services. Business classes can also help you develop professional communication, time management, and decision-making skills, all of which are essential whether you’re running your own company or working your way up in someone else’s.
It’s also VERRY wise to think about the future and have a plan for when you’re older and may not be able to do the physical work anymore. Carpentry can be demanding on your body, so having business knowledge can open doors to less physical roles like project management, estimating, consulting, or even owning and managing a construction business. Planning ahead now gives you more control over your career path and helps ensure that your skills can still support you even after your time on the tools comes to an end. In short, a strong foundation in business can turn a skilled carpenter into a successful and adaptable professional for years to come.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Loved reading this, thanks!
Hunter
Hunter, you’re very welcome! You might find my story in the profile section interesting. I also got my start in the construction industry at a young age before making the transition into the corporate technology world. Making that shift in my late 20s wasn’t easy, so I think it’s great that you’re already thinking ahead and planning for your future now.
Wyatt .