Carpentry



About Carpentry


Carpentry is one of the most foundational and versatile skilled trades, playing a central role in residential, commercial, and industrial construction. Modern carpentry focuses on measuring, interpreting plans, preparing materials, and constructing or repairing structural and finish components. Carpenters work with a variety of tools and materials to frame structures, install drywall and insulation, build roofing systems, and complete interior and exterior finishes. The trade requires accuracy, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety standards and construction guidelines.


Through structured instruction and applied learning, individuals studying carpentry develop practical skills in layout, cutting and shaping materials, assembling components, and ensuring proper fit and alignment. The work can take place indoors or outdoors and is physically active, often involving lifting, climbing, bending, and extended periods of standing or kneeling. Strong math skills, problem-solving ability, and comfort working with hand and power tools are important for success in this field.


Carpentry is well suited for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, building tangible results, and contributing to projects that improve homes and communities. With a solid foundation in carpentry skills and professionalism, this trade offers opportunities across a wide range of construction, renovation, and building maintenance environments.

Examples of

Carpentry Skills


  • Demonstrating the correct use of common tools
  • Demonstrating job site safety
  • Replacing windows, doors, and flooring
  • Basic framing
  • Building walls
  • Building concrete frames and molds
  • Installing interior finish and trims


What Carpentry

Work Involves:


Design and layout:

Carpenters measure, mark up, and rearrange materials throughout an object, such as wood

Cutting and shaping:

Carpenters mold wood or other materials into a certain shape through the use of hand or power tools

Joining:

Carpenters attach materials together by using nails, screws or adhesives

Inspecting:

Carpenters check the accuracy of their work through the use of levels or squares and make adjustments as needed

Work environments:

Both indoor and outdoor work for carpenters includes measuring, using tools properly, being creative and having good communications skills with fellow team members as well as customers


Opportunities for the Carpenter’s Career


Carpentry remains in strong demand due to ongoing residential and commercial construction, renovation, and remodeling projects. Skilled carpenters support a wide range of work for employers such as land developers, general contractors, and remodeling companies. Because carpentry skills are foundational across the construction industry, individuals may apply their skills in multiple settings and develop focused experience in areas such as framing, roofing, drywall installation, insulation, and finish work. This versatility allows carpenters to contribute across many types of building and maintenance environments.



Potential Careers


With training, experience, and continued skill development, individuals with carpentry skills may pursue roles such as:


  • Carpenter
  • Carpenter’s Helper
  • Construction Technician
  • Construction Inspector
  • Subcontractor
  • Facilities or Maintenance Technician




Earning Potential for Carpentry Careers


Carpentry wages vary depending on experience, location, and specialization, but skilled trade work generally offers earnings above many entry-level jobs. According to recent U.S. data, the median carpenter earns around $28.50 per hour (about $59,000 per year) nationally, with typical ranges from roughly $18 to over $40 per hour depending on experience and region.


In South Carolina, typical hourly rates for carpenters fall in the low-to-mid-$20s per hour range, with entry-level workers often starting somewhat lower and more experienced carpenters earning higher wages as they build skills and professional credibility.


As individuals grow in experience and expertise, opportunities may increase for higher pay in more advanced roles within construction or carpentry-related specialties. While pay ranges can vary by employer and location, carpentry remains a trade where skills development and professional habits directly contribute to stronger earning potential over time.