Carpenters take the designs made by architects and turn them into reality. We use materials like wood, vinyl and plastic to build both the inside and outside parts of houses and other structures. Carpenters can work for construction companies, on maintenance crews, or run their own business.

You have precision and mechanical skills.

You have good balance, physical strength & creativity.

You enjoy working indoors and outdoors.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/SphLORbBqyg?si=VNG7s2-JNRFyoply

Carpenter Testimonials

https://www.youtube.com/embed/ozsouRFXp9Q?si=qvFaPRkghXQtB7J-

Melissa

https://www.youtube.com/embed/CdnsBKDa72Q?si=nJGui7BOqz711H8L

Osas

https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rg2Ie4nlvbQ?si=pTVjK08F3erc41mo

Justin

https://www.youtube.com/embed/HhUraB6PlTQ?si=fBAAYeOirxbfe7z1

Bradley

Responsibilities

  • Read blueprints, drawings and sketches
  • Measure, cut and join materials made of wood or wood substitutes
  • Fit and install trim, doors, stairs, moulding & hardware
  • Frame wood residential homes & commercial buildings
  • Assemble and erect formwork & falsework for concrete
  • Renovate and fix a range of structures
  • Install exterior & interior finish materials (e.g., siding, windows, cabinets)
  • Site preparation and layout

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Strong communication, reading & numeracy, critical thinking & problem-solving
  • Physical fitness & ability to lift up to 25 kilograms
  • Ability to work at heights & in confined spaces
  • Ability to work with a team and independently
  • A safety-conscious attitude

Entrance Requirements

High School:

Recommended: English 10 or English language proficiency | Any Math 10 | Science 10

Apprenticeship Program:

4 years, includes 840 in-school training hours, 6,360 on-the-job training hours and exam. B.C. Certificate of Qualification and Red Seal certificate (the interprovincial standard endorsement) awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.

To potentially qualify for credit to reduce length of apprenticeship term: Completed courses of study or carpentry-related work experience.

Hourly Pay

Commercial Rate: $23.09 – $38.48 per hour
Industrial Rate: $26.84 – $48.80 per hour

Projected Growth

(CONSTRUCTION LABOUR FORCE)

10% over the decade

compared to 2020*

*BuildForce Canada

Did you know?

B.C.’s leading trade occupation in 2019 was carpenters, representing 40% of the onsite workforce.

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