Becoming a carpenter in Lufkin, TX, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom learning and 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 $859 in 2025, and projects an 8% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $41,748 per year in the U.S., 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.