Embarking on a career as a carpenter in New York and New Jersey typically begins with an apprenticeship, which blends hands-on experience with classroom instruction, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships generally last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under experienced professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 352,779 carpenters nationwide, with a steady average growth rate of 1.1% from 2019 to 2024. In New York and New Jersey, apprentices can expect to earn an average of $1,511 per week, with an annual overtime average of $14,600. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild assist aspiring carpenters in finding apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a rewarding career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $83,000 annually for experienced professionals.
