Becoming a carpenter in South Portland, ME 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 a 1.1% average growth rate from 2019 to 2024, and projects an 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030. Apprentices earn an average of $277.83 per week in South Portland, with an average annual salary of $41,748. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Home Builders Institute help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
