Becoming a carpenter typically starts with an apprenticeship, 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 an estimated 1,000 in Scottsbluff, NE, and projects an 8% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $766 per week in Scottsbluff, with an average wage of $612 per week for experienced carpenters. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $41,748 annually for experienced professionals.
