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 352,779 carpenters nationwide, with a 1.1% average growth rate from 2019 to 2024, and projects a 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030. Apprentices earn an average of $58,210 per year in the United States, with an average weekly wage of $1,120. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee help aspiring carpenters find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
