Becoming a carpenter in Emporia, KS, often begins with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships typically last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 352,779 carpenters nationwide, with an average weekly wage of $1,511 in the construction sector. In Emporia, KS, carpenters can expect to earn an average of $1,511 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $108,000 annually. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and a projected 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030.