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Carpenters use a variety of tools to manipulate wood but measuring tapes, squares.
And levels are essential for nearly every project.
Practice using a hammer, drill, nail gun, wood plane, and chisel as well.
Completing a pre-apprenticeship education through a carpentry trade school or vocational college tends to take anywhere from eight to 24 months.
Although much less common, shorter programs may be available (often including online carpentry classes).
That makes it possible to learn the basics of how to become a carpenter in as little as about four months.*
Apprenticeship programs can take up to four years.
As you calculate the time it will take you to train as a carpenter.
There is another consideration to keep in mind.
Carpenters and other tradespeople are usually paid for their on-the-job training.
So, you’ll likely begin to enjoy the financial rewards of a career in carpentry more quickly than you might in some other occupations.
Carpentry schools generally offer programs that are designed to prepare students for entry-level opportunities in the trade, such as apprenticeships.
In an introductory course like this, you’ll learn safety procedures.
How to measure and cut wood, and how to use basic hand and power tools.
Tip: In addition to traditional carpentry classes, classes in blueprint reading, drafting, math, and fine woodworking can help you with your carpentry skills.
Carpentry Trade School
Skills You Can Learn at Carpentry Schools
Carpentry training may help you gain practical expertise related to doing things like:
- Visualizing 3D structures based on 2D drawings
- Selecting and laying out building materials
- Taking accurate measurements
- Making precise calculations
- Using, inspecting, and maintaining hand and power tools
- Following proper safety and waste-removal practices
- Adhering to local building codes
- Marking, cutting, shaping, erecting, and joining wood or other materials
- Verifying the trueness of installed structural components
- Using woodworking machines
- Managing projects
Take a carpentry class at a community college to learn the basics.
Many community colleges offer courses in carpentry that you could take on nights or weekends.
So this is a good option if you already have a full-time job.
These types of classes introduce you to the basics, such as safety procedures (including OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations), terminology and materials.
How to use carpentry tools and equipment, and how to read blueprints.
- You can continue on to advanced courses, such as framing and building construction.
- Typically, you’ll earn a certificate for completing one of these courses, which is a great addition to your resume!
- If you want to learn a specific skill or build a specific structure (like a shed), look for specialty classes that will teach you how to do so.
Carpentry Trade School
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
Pre-apprenticeship programs teach the basics of carpentry.
They also help you polish the skills you’ll need to be successful in the industry.
Coursework often includes basic math and science.
During the program, you’ll learn carpentry terminology for tools, equipment, and materials.
You’ll learn to draft and interpret blueprints and manage projects.
Carpenter programs also teach workplace safety.
Building codes, and other government regulations.
Many programs offer the option for training in carpentry specialties.
These include roofing, framing, finishing, and machine woodworking.
1. Certificate and diploma programs:
Carpentry certificates and diplomas are the shortest, most focused educational options.
They usually provide instruction in the core concepts of the trade.
In-person courses of study also tend to incorporate some hands-on technical training.
Carpentry Trade School
2. Associate degree programs:
Carpentry associate degree programs take around two years to complete.
These more extended degree programs offer significant advantages, including:
- More comprehensive instruction
- More hands-on practice
- A broader range of skills and knowledge
- A mix of carpentry coursework and more general subjects (which can better prepare you for management or leadership roles)
- Higher potential for career advancement
- Opportunities for higher-level positions
Obtain a degree in carpentry to get an edge over the competition.
While you don’t have to have a degree to become a carpenter or complete projects for personal use, it’s the best way to gain knowledge and experience in the industry.
Vocational schools are more likely to offer this degree than traditional universities.
Just make sure the school you choose is accredited so that your degree will be recognized and respected.
- Alternatively, you can major in construction with a concentration in carpentry.
Typical Courses
Formal carpentry programs vary in scope, but they often include classes in subjects like:
- Trade terminology
- Workplace safety
- Government regulations and building codes
- Algebra and geometry
- Basic physics
- Architectural drafting
- Blueprint interpretation
- Carpentry tools and equipment
- Building materials (including selection and measurement)
- Machine woodworking
- Framing
- Roofing
- Finishing
- Project management
Carpentry Trade School
Volunteer for a community carpentry project if you don’t have much experience.
Volunteering for a charitable organization that builds houses can help you learn carpentry skills in exchange for your labor.
Find the website of an organization near you, such as Habitat for Humanity, and search for volunteer opportunities coming up.
Reach out to the volunteer coordinator and commit to helping with a project in your area.
- Even if you don’t know anything about carpentry, many community organizations that build houses will gladly have you help and learn along the way.
What Makes a Good Carpenter?
To prepare to succeed as a carpenter, you’ll need specific skills.
Before training to become a carpenter, it’s wise to evaluate yourself for these skills and determine what you need to learn and strengthen.
Carpentry Trade School
Assess Your Skills and Determine If Carpentry Is a Good Fit for You
Take Steps to Improve Skills That May be Lacking
If you’re still in high school, some courses may be worth extra attention on your part.
These include math, English, business, and art courses.
Especially mechanical drawing if available.
If your school offers a woodworking or shop class.
You can gain relevant education and experience.
If you have finished high school and think your reading or math skills could use a refresher.
Online and in-person programs and tutors can help.
You can work to build your physical strength and stamina at any age.
You can also work on polishing your interpersonal skills.