Becoming a carpenter typically starts with an apprenticeship or vocational training, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to gain practical skills while earning. Apprenticeships in Jacksonville, NC, 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 average growth of 8% from 2020 to 2030. Apprentices in Jacksonville earn an average of $685.71 per week, with an annual overtime average of $4,800. 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 $85,000 annually for experienced professionals.
