John
What do I need to know about starting in carpentry?
I just started job corps for certification in carpentry. I'd like to go into construction and maybe even become self-employed as a handyman someday. I'd like to know what I should expect to deal with when I leave job corps and start on my first actual job. What starting position(s) should I expect to fill and what tasks will those entail?
#construction #carpentry #job
3 answers
G. Mark Stewart
G. Mark’s Answer
As you must already know, there are many different types of carpentry, from construction, rough framing, finish carpentry, laborer, etc.. A skilled carpenter can have a very wide range of skills and familiarity with a wide range of equipment. One thing to be aware of is that at one time, the vast majority of carpenters went through apprenticeship and extensive training. Your training puts you ahead of a large number of folks working as carpenters today. It also means that you'll likely increase in responsibility faster than average. You may want to specialize in one particular area, such as roughing in new construction of, say, homebuilders. Or you may want to set up your own business as a general contractor. In any case, you'll have quite a bit of control of what you want to do and never any shortage of things to learn. I think if I spent any more money on woodworking tools and supplies, I could sell it and buy another house, so the attraction of carpentry is familiar to me. My own father wasn't big on car maintenance or repair, but I'd swear he could have built an artificial heart out of mahogany. So the big thing about carpentry is how wide the range of skills can be. That should get you plenty excited. Look around for a crew to join and grow from there. My thought is that carpenters will always be needed, and when automation grows, they'll just be building bigger, cooler stuff.
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Embarking on a Carpentry Career:
As you embark on your journey into carpentry, there are several crucial elements to bear in mind to ensure your success in this profession. Here are some key points to focus on:
1. Education and Training:
Job Corps Certification: Opting to gain carpentry certification through Job Corps is an excellent initial move. This program equips you with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to jumpstart your carpentry career.
Apprenticeship Programs: After earning your certification, think about joining an apprenticeship program. Such programs provide practical training under seasoned carpenters, enabling you to enhance your skills and knowledge in a practical environment.
2. Tools and Equipment:
As you get ready to join the workforce, it's vital to invest in top-notch tools and equipment. Essential carpentry tools include hammers, saws, drills, levels, tape measures, and safety gear.
Ensure you know how to use and maintain these tools properly to guarantee efficiency and safety at work.
3. Initial Positions and Responsibilities:
Upon exiting Job Corps and stepping into your first carpentry job, you'll likely start in entry-level roles such as an apprentice carpenter or helper.
Responsibilities in these positions might involve aiding senior carpenters with tasks like measuring, cutting, and installing materials, keeping the workspace tidy, operating power tools under supervision, and mastering basic carpentry methods.
4. Career Advancement:
With time and experience in the field, you can climb the ladder to roles like journeyman carpenter, lead carpenter, or even contemplate starting your own carpentry business.
Creating a robust portfolio of finished projects and consistently enhancing your skills through training programs will be key to progressing in your carpentry career.
5. Entrepreneurial Skills:
If you aspire to become a self-employed handyman or contractor in the long run, it's crucial to cultivate business skills in addition to your carpentry expertise.
Educate yourself on job pricing, financial management, marketing your services, securing necessary licenses and permits, and delivering excellent customer service to establish a thriving business.
By concentrating on education, practical experience, ongoing skill enhancement, and business acumen, you can lay a solid foundation for a fulfilling career in carpentry and construction.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) - Offers invaluable resources and data on the construction industry, including trends, best practices, and learning opportunities for budding carpenters.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides guidelines and rules related to workplace safety in the construction sector, ensuring that carpenters follow correct safety protocols.
Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) - Provides insights into the construction industry’s landscape, advocacy efforts, training programs, and networking opportunities for professionals entering the carpentry field.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
Dwight Womer FMP
Dwight’s Answer
You’ll need a good eye for detail. Everything you build will need to be plumb and level. All corners must be square. Be diligent in arriving for work on time and have your own tools. Keep your tools in good shape and sharp. Don’t lend your tools out , they never come back. Learn how to use all hand tools especially hand saws being excellent and cutting straight and square. Learn the different squares and how to layout and cut rafters. No smiley faces on wood from you hammer. Good luck and work hard.
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