A carpenter builds and repairs structures and fixtures made of wood, metal, and other materials. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start without a four-year degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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Carpenters construct, install, and repair building frameworks, walls, floors, roofs, and fixtures. You'll read blueprints and technical drawings, measure and cut materials with precision, and inspect your work to meet safety and quality standards. The job involves identifying what needs to be done, getting information from plans and supervisors, handling tools and materials, and performing the physical work that brings structures to life. You might work on residential homes, commercial buildings, or renovation projects, adapting your approach to different materials and design requirements.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Carpenters earn a median of $60,580 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations, with about 74,100 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most carpenters start with a high school diploma or equivalent and learn through on-the-job training, often as an apprentice working alongside experienced carpenters. You'll develop skills in reading blueprints, mathematics for measurements and calculations, and hands-on tool use. Many carpenters pursue formal apprenticeship programs that combine classroom instruction in building codes, safety, and design with paid work experience. Some start as general laborers and advance as they gain skills. Active learning and critical thinking help you solve problems on the job and adapt to new techniques and materials.
Apprenticeships and on-the-job training are the main routes into carpentry. If you're exploring how to start, Pathly can map the carpenter path that fits you to map out a plan with your counselor based on what's available in your area.
You do not need a license to work as a carpenter, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like working with your hands and seeing tangible results. You're practical, detail-oriented, and comfortable with physical work. You enjoy solving real-world problems and building things that last.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).