Becoming a carpenter in Champaign, IL 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 an average weekly wage of $1,511 in the construction sector, and projects a 8% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $452 per week in Champaign, IL, with an annual overtime average of $23,544. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $41,748 annually for experienced professionals.
