Carpenters are skilled crafts-persons whose services are required in developing an entire monumental structure or parts of it. The services required can be two types – rough (structural) and finish (detail). While the former requires construction that ultimately becomes the framework to a building with the final product covering this rough work entirely, the latter involves more detailed work such as cabinets, windows, wooden frames etc where precision and skill is extremely important. Carpentry is not always about construction and erecting, it might also mean renovating and replacing furniture – in houses as well as archeological monuments and sites. But whatever the case, it’s obviously the hands that play a very crucial role in this profession. It is a very respectable but demanding job and requires more than just a dash of creativity. Do you think you have the dexterity and mental aptitude to become a carpenter? Have you shown some immaculate building skills in the past? Then you must read through the following sections to know more about this becoming a carpenter!
Becoming A Carpenter
Requirements
Eligibility
One must have studied mathematics at high school level – this helps you understand estimates and measurements better. Post high school, you can either start apprenticing under trained professionals. Some vocational courses are also available for people interested in this field. These include modules on roof framing, concrete work, building codes etc. Computer software programs to create drawings and blueprint classes must be taken to make and understand construction blueprints easily. Apprenticeships are common and may take about four years to complete but since these make for formal certification in the journey of a carpenter, the hard-work is worth it.
Courses Required
-
Certificate of Achievement in Carpentry Technology: This is normally a two year program when completed from an accredited university.Over the duration of the courses, subjects such asintroduction to wood products, landscape construction basics, welding, etc. are taught.
-
Associate of Applied Science in Carpentry-Building Trades: The modules of this course include building site surveys, building materials, rough and outside framework, construction print overview etc.
-
Associate of Applied Science in Carpentry Management: This is another option for carpenters. It is one-year certificate program where advanced materials, cost estimation, job scheduling, blueprint reading and so on are taught and students are prepared for managerial responsibilities.
Skills Required
-
Problem Solving: The real mathematics of calculations and estimations comes into play here! A carpenter must be able to quickly solve a problem and present the idea practically.
-
Usage Of Tools: A carpenter learns the use and techniques of several tools but their practical usage is what matters. A good carpenter has to be professionally trained and must also be able to give first-aid in times of injury.
-
Physically Fit: Possessing strong arms and legs is crucial to withstand long working hours and temperature extremes.
Roles And Responsibilities
-
The major role of a carpenter is to construct, erect, install and repair structures made of wood. Ranging from building of bridges to apartments, cabinets, store rooms and furniture, if it is woodwork, it is a carpenter’s responsibility.
-
Carpenters are meant to do layouts by looking at blueprints and instructions from supervisors. Measuring, marking and arranging the material, then cutting the wood and other materials using saws, drills and chisels and finally joining the materials with adhesives and nails is a part of their day-to-day role.
-
Remodeling homes is also a major role that requires framing walls, partitioning, installing doors and windows, building stairs etc. The capacity of a carpenter to shift from residential buildings to commercial work shows his true craftsmanship.
Career Prospects
Since carpenters are needed by every community, this trade is the second largest in building occupations. About 32% of carpenters are self-employed and the rest change jobs as they finish their contracts. An excellent approach is to alternate between working for a contractor and other small jobs. Manufacturing firms, government agencies and retail establishments all require the services of carpenters which makes career prospects in this field bright.
These are some of the eligibility criteria for those looking to become a carpenter. Hope they helped!
