Becoming a carpenter in South Dakota typically begins 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 a steady growth rate of 1.1% over the past five years. Apprentices in South Dakota earn an average of $500 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $1,000 weekly. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the South Dakota Apprenticeship Program help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential and diverse opportunities for advancement and specialization in the construction industry.
