The second largest US building trade is carpentry. Training courses available for young carpenters in the USA assist students in preparing to enter this profession, and arm them for advancement in their careers. Having a good general background plus some specialized skills will help them reach their career goals.
In 2008 there were 1.3 million carpenter jobs in the US. For the ten year 2008 – 2018 period the number is projected to increase by 13% according to the US Department of Labor. The jobs can pay well, but demand for workers and new construction will fluctuate with changing economic conditions.
Jobs in this field are becoming increasingly specialized and complex. Types range from new structure erection in residential and commercial, to repair and remodeling, to cabinet and fixture installation. Other possibilities are the building of supports for infrastructure construction and mines or constructing scaffolding for other projects. Another potential job is making forms for concrete works.
To be successful an applicant is expected to have basic skills in English, algebra, geometry, physics, mechanical drawing and blueprint reading. He should have an understanding of basics in structural design and related terminology. Knowing how to lay out a job, measure dimensions, cut and join materials, and complete the project from framing to finishing is expected.
Familiarity with the operation and applications of power and hand held tools is demanded. Knowledge about wood varieties, and their uses and properties, as well as the other materials will set him apart from the other applicants.
In addition to technical knowledge physical fitness is required if he is to be able to work on his feet, climb, lift, and kneel through out the work day. This work is often outdoors with exposure to all types of weather conditions. Balance, manual dexterity, and eye to hand coordination are required in order to do quality work, and avoid injuries while working with sharp tools and materials. Hazardous conditions like heights and slippery conditions are common.
There is always a need for skilled people who can build things. As population levels increase demand for housing tends to increase also. Repairs need to be done on existing structures. A new focus on energy efficiency will increase new building demands. Training courses available for young carpenters in the USA give their students the advantage they need to get one of those good, high paying jobs. The people hired, and those promoted, or those retained during economic downturns are those with both a solid general background, which makes them more versatile, and those possessing specialized knowledge and skills that enable them to do work others can not.
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