How Do You Go About Becoming A Carpenter?

Carpentry is an exciting job, offering the chance to work on a wide range of projects with a diverse group of people. The carpentry industry is also relatively secure, set to grow by around 8 percent between 2016 to 2026, according the Bureau of Labour Statistics.

There are many reasons to get into this industry such as; the ability to help people build their dream houses and the ability to work on challenging industrial projects. Here we will provide helpful tips to help aspiring carpenters enter the industry.

Shadow Successful Carpenters

Get in contact with working carpenters in the area and ask if they would let you shadow them for a few days. This will give you the chance to see first-hand the skills required for carpentry and get used to being on a professional construction site.

Additionally, it gives you the chance to ask any questions you have about carpentry and get some advice about how they entered in the industry. It will also show potential employers that you are serious about this career path.

Volunteer

Many people need the skills of a professional carpenter, but they just can’t afford to pay the fees. After getting your qualifications, taking jobs for free is a great way to kickstart your career.

It will allow you to fill your resume with references from satisfied customers and help build a network of people who will alert you to any potential positions. Finally, volunteering will give you the chance to hone your skills in a construction environment without too much pressure.

Visit Local Construction Sites

Many construction sites will require carpenters to complete the job. Perhaps one of those carpenters has called in sick or has recently left the job and you could be their replacement. While it is unlikely that you will get hired instantly, you will build recognition among employers and they will appreciate your initiative. It is likely that the next time they are considering who they want to work on their next project, you might get a call.

Become an Apprentice

Becoming an apprentice gives you to chance to work with successful carpenters, learning tricks and techniques on a professional site.

Many apprenticeships have a limited lifespan and when they end, if you have dedicated yourself and provided high-quality work, many companies will decide to employ you. Even if you don’t end up employed, you will still have great experience and a reference for your resume, making it easier for you to get employment in the future.

This article has examined some ways for carpenters to get into the construction industry. The techniques discussed in this article were; contacting successful carpenters and following them for a few days, volunteering your time so you can provide examples of your work to potential employers, visiting local construction sites in case they have any unadvertised vacancies and becoming an apprentice. Hopefully, these tips will make it easier for you to find a job as a carpenter.