Becoming a carpenter typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 352,779 carpenters nationwide, with a projected 8% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $500 per week in Arizona, with an annual overtime average of $10,400. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Home Builders Institute help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $83,000 annually for experienced professionals. Over time, the carpentry trade has seen a steady increase in wages, with the average weekly earnings rising from $450 in 2020 to $500 in 2024.
