A Complete Guide to Carpentry Apprenticeships

See the Whats of the Job & How to Get Started

A carpentry apprenticeship is an excellent option for those interested in launching a hands-on career in the skilled trades. AM Construction Services is proud to offer an apprentice training program covering all residential and commercial carpentry aspects. We equip aspiring tradespeople with the technical expertise and real-world experience to become highly skilled carpenters. AM Construction Services will support you through an exciting and rewarding career path in the construction industry. 

Apply today or contact us to get started in a career at AMCSI.

• What Do Carpenter Apprentices Do?
• How Long Typically is a Carpentry Apprenticeship?
• How Much Do Apprentice Carpenters Make?
• 9 Benefits of Being a Carpenter Apprentice
• Typical Career Paths for Carpenter Apprentices
• How to Become a Carpenter Apprentice
• Carpentry Apprenticeship Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Carpenter Apprenticeship?

A carpenter apprenticeship is a multi-year training program designed to teach carpentry skills through hands-on experience. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced carpenters to gain practical knowledge in all aspects of residential and commercial carpentry. The training combines paid on-the-job hours along with classroom education in math, safety, blueprint reading and more. Apprentices start by learning basic tasks and progress to more complex carpentry work. Upon completion, carpenters are highly trained in new construction, remodeling, repair and fine woodworking. The apprenticeship model produces skilled tradespeople through mentored, real-world practice.

What Do Carpenter Apprentices Do?

Carpenter apprentices get well-rounded, hands-on training and experience in all aspects of carpentry work under the guidance of experienced professionals. Typical duties include:

• Constructing, erecting and installing structures made of wood like concrete forms, building frameworks, partitions, joists and rafters
• Repairing wooden structures including staircases, window and door frames, floors, siding, cabinets and drywall
• Learning to install insulation, roofing materials, fixtures and other components
• Gaining experience reading blueprints, using carpentry tools and equipment properly and following safety procedures

Varied work teaches apprentices residential and commercial carpentry skills through practical, on-the-job training. Apprentices develop expertise in new construction, remodeling and repair of buildings and structures made of wood. Apprentices prepare individuals for a career as a highly-skilled tradesperson.

How Long Typically is a Carpentry Apprenticeship?

In Wisconsin, A carpentry apprenticeship generally takes about 4 years to complete and consists of paid on-the-job training as well as related classroom instruction. Apprentices must complete 5,840 hours of on-site carpentry work under the supervision of experienced carpenters. Additionally, 400 hours of paid-related instruction are required, which cover topics like blueprint reading, math, safety and more. Apprentices must also complete 250 hours of unpaid related instruction on their own time. Obtaining First Aid/CPR certifications and Transition to Trainer training are also mandatory.

A comprehensive carpentry apprenticeship lasts approximately 4 years, including nearly 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 650 hours of supplementary instruction. Immersive training produces highly skilled carpenters ready for a career in the trades.

How Much Do Apprentice Carpenters Make?

Apprentice carpenter wages in Wisconsin start at about 50-60% of a fully trained carpenter's pay. According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, the average annual salary for an experienced carpenter was $58,439 as of 2017. Apprentice carpenters can expect to earn $29,000-$35,000 per year to start. Wages increase progressively as apprentices gain more on-the-job training and experience.

The job outlook for carpenters in Wisconsin is also favorable, with an expected 8.44% growth in openings through 2026. With robust projected demand and competitive earning potential, becoming an apprentice carpenter is an appealing career path in Wisconsin’s thriving construction industry. The multi-year training gives apprentices the hands-on preparation and knowledge to become highly skilled, well-compensated carpenters. 

9 Benefits of Being a Carpenter Apprentice 

1. Earn while you learn - Apprentices earn competitive wages while training on the job. Pay increases as you gain more skills.
2. No student debt - Apprenticeships provide paid training, so you avoid the high cost of formal education.
3. Hands-on career training - Learn valuable carpentry skills through real on-site experience under seasoned professionals.
4. Classroom education - Gain supplementary technical knowledge with related classroom instruction.
5. Nationally recognized credential - Earn a journeyman certificate, affirming your carpentry proficiency.
6. High job demand - Skilled carpenters are in high demand in construction and other industries.
7. Potential for advancement - Apprentice training sets you up for future roles as crew lead, site supervisor or starting your own company.
8. Job security - Carpentry expertise provides stable, reliable employment year-round.
9. Rewarding work - Take pride in building, repairing and creating with your own two hands.

Typical Career Paths for Carpenter Apprentices

The hands-on training and problem-solving skills gained through a carpentry apprenticeship open up many possible career paths in construction.

• Carpenter - Work on residential or commercial building construction and remodeling projects.
• Finish Carpenter - Specialize in fine woodworking like cabinets, furniture and architectural details.
• Framer - Frame houses, roofs, partitions and other structural elements.
• Roofer - Install, repair and waterproof roofing systems on all types of buildings.
• Drywall Installer - Hang and finish drywall panels on interior walls and ceilings.
• Concrete Form Builder - Build forms for pouring concrete foundations, structures and surfaces.
• Construction Foreman/Supervisor - Oversee carpenter crews and work sites after gaining experience.
• General Contractor - Start a construction company managing home building projects.
• Woodworking Teacher - Use carpentry expertise to instruct high school or vocational students.

Qualities of a Good Carpenter Apprentice

Carpentry is a hands-on trade. Carpenters must possess a combination of traits to thrive and be successful in the market. Key qualities include physical stamina and endurance to perform demanding duties. Manual dexterity and balance enable working adeptly with tools and materials.

Spatial reasoning and visualization skills are needed to interpret diagrams and blueprints. Strong math abilities aid in taking measurements and making precise calculations. The ability to follow instructions and safety protocols is crucial when operating equipment.

Troubleshooting and critical thinking skills empower apprentices to analyze and fix problems. Carpenter apprentices should also demonstrate reliability, teamwork skills, attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.

How to Become a Carpenter Apprentice

If you're interested in launching a hands-on carpentry career, applying for an apprenticeship with AM Construction Services is a great way to get started. Our comprehensive program provides training and mentoring in all aspects of residential and commercial carpentry. As an apprentice, you'll assist with projects and learn through on-the-job experience under seasoned carpenters. You'll also take related classroom courses on carpentry theory, math, blueprints, safety and more. Apprentices can expect to frame, install components, learn finishing techniques, use tools and work on construction sites.

At AM Construction Services, we offer excellent training opportunities to prepare you for a rewarding career. To become a carpenter apprentice, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent. Construction experience is helpful but not required. Check our website for apprenticeship openings and apply today to get started on your pathway to journeyman certification.

Carpentry Apprenticeship Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does a carpentry apprenticeship take?
A carpentry apprenticeship typically takes 4 years to complete, with about 5,840 hours of on-site carpentry work, 400 hours of classroom education, 250 hours of unpaid related instruction and First Aid and CPR certifications.

2. What are the education requirements?
Many programs require a high school diploma or equivalent to qualify for a carpentry apprenticeship. Prior woodworking experience is preferred but not always required.

3. What kinds of skills will I learn?
You'll gain skills in reading blueprints, using carpentry tools, framing, installing components like doors/windows, finishes like cabinets/trim, repair work, safety protocols and more.

4. How much does a carpenter apprentice make?
Apprentice wages start around 50-60% of a journeyman carpenter's pay. In Wisconsin, wages average $29,000-$35,000/year to start.

5. What are my career prospects after completing an apprenticeship?
You'll be qualified for carpentry jobs in construction. Many carpenters go on to specialize in areas like framing, finishes, remodels, etc. Some may become foremen or start their own contracting business.

6. What qualities make a good carpentry apprentice?
You'll need physical strength, stamina, manual dexterity, spatial skills, math aptitude, the ability to follow instructions, attention to detail and good communication skills.

Become a Youth Apprentice Carpenter with AMCSI

Become a youth apprentice carpenter! At AMCSI, you'll receive comprehensive paid training in carpentry with personalized instruction and continuous education opportunities. If you're motivated, eager to acquire trade skills and seeking a golden chance to kickstart your woodworking career, AMCSI is your ally.

Many youth apprentices at AMCSI progress to registered apprenticeships, earning credits to propel their carpentry careers further. Choosing AMCSI ensures top-notch training and paves the way for a stable, fulfilling long-term career. Once you transition to full-time employment, you and your family can enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including 401k matching, quality insurance and more, ensuring your well-being is prioritized.