Becoming a carpenter typically starts with a combination of vocational training and apprenticeship, which provides hands-on experience and 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 annual wage of $41,748, translating to $802.85 per week. In Dothan, AL, carpenters earn an average of $298.67 per week, with an annual overtime average of $1,542.72. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
