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 762,600 carpenters nationwide, with 40,670 in Tennessee, and projects a 6% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $500 per week in Newport, TN, with an annual overtime average of $26,000. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $80,000 annually for experienced professionals.
