Embarking on a career as a carpenter in Albany, OR, typically begins with an apprenticeship, which blends hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to gain practical skills while earning a wage. Apprenticeships in this trade generally last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under experienced professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 352,779 carpenters nationwide, with a projected job growth of 8% from 2020 to 2030. In Albany, OR, apprentices can expect to earn an average of $760 per week, with experienced carpenters potentially earning over $41,748 annually. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring carpenters in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a rewarding career with strong earning potential.