The Work
Carpenters work with power and hand tools. They build forms for concrete and frame
buildings, walls, footings, columns and stairs. Wood framing includes house building,
roofs, stairs, decking and sheathing. Carpenters install doors, windows, storefronts
and hand rails, and build cabinets, counter tops and finished stair handrails. They
also work on drywall, wood flooring, metal jams and ceilings.
Carpenters do interior and exterior finish work, work with drywall and metal studs, install other interior systems, weld, and do many other related work processes. They also read blueprints, and must measure accurately and calculate dimensions. They may be involved in the original construction or remodel of almost every kind of structure, including houses and commercial buildings, bridges, churches, factories, and highways.
Working Conditions
The work is very physical and involves a good deal of standing, climbing, kneeling,
lifting and squatting. Work is done both indoors and outdoors, depending upon the
stage and nature of construction and area of emphasis. Location of the job site generally
changes several times during the year. Apprentices may need to travel and relocate
to take an available job. One day they may work inside where it is warm and dry and
the next day outside where it is cold and wet. They must be in good health, meet certain
strength requirements, be agile and have good hand-eye coordination. Work conditions
vary with each job. Some are quite strenuous, while others such as cabinetry and finish
work are less so.
The Apprenticeship
This program, depending upon specialty, requires 5,200-8,000 hours (two to four years)
on-the-job to complete and attendance at related training classes for 160 hours per
year. These are scheduled in four one-week daytime sessions; carpenters are not expected
to be at work during these times.
To Apply Contact:
Renton Carpenters Training Center – Travis Dodson
3000 NE 4th Street Bldg L
Renton, WA 98056
Phone: (425) 235-2465
Office Hours: 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Monday–Friday
Class Hours: 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Monday–Friday
DuPont Training Center – Dustin Gregory
2575 Williamson Pl
DuPont, WA 98327
Phone: (253) 393-6275
Office Hours: 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Monday–Friday
Class Hours: 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Monday–Friday