Becoming a carpenter typically starts with an apprenticeship or vocational training, 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 approximately 1,354 in Louisville, IN, and projects an 8% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $1,036 per week in Louisville, with an annual overtime average of $4,824. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee offer aspiring carpenters opportunities to find apprenticeships, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $41,748 annually for experienced professionals.
