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Apprenticeship for Carpenters

What do carpenters do?

CarpentryCarpenters cut, fit and assemble wood and other building materials.  They make frames and foundations for buildings; install trim; construct cabinets, fences, decks and porches and maintain and repair structures.  Carpenters have many responsibilities and must be versatile.  They must know how to use different tools, read blueprints and change structures.  They should also be physically fit and have good communication skills. Part of being a Union Carpenter is being the best-trained, most highly skilled craftsmen in the industry. Their skill and efficiency is what enables union contractors to stay ahead of the competition.

Program Specifics

  • The program offers training in general carpentry and interior systems, which takes four years.  The base wage for apprentice carpenters begins around $14/hour and journey level workers begin at about $30/hour.  Additional benefits like medical, dental and vision insurance and a retirement pension increase the total wage value. Applications are taken year ‘round.  They may be obtained at the Northern Nevada Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship office at 1360 Financial Blvd. in Reno. 
  • All applicants must be at least 18 years of age when they begin their apprenticeship; they may be 17 to apply.
  • Applicants must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent.  They have a year upon beginning the apprenticeship to obtain this.
  • Applicants must be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the apprenticeship program and subsequent work.
  • Apprentices must successfully pass a drug test upon entering the program.
  • The apprenticeship program offers equal opportunity to all people regardless of race, age, color, gender, religion, nationality or sexual orientation.
  • Once basic requirements are met, an applicant is scheduled for an interview.  The interview is conducted by contractors and labor representatives. 
  • Once accepted, an applicant can remain on the list for up to two years.  Classroom/shop instruction is one 40-hour week per quarter, for 160/hours a year. Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience. A variety of classes include welding, concrete forms, interior systems, wood framing, door hardware, scaffold erection, blueprint reading and layout. In addition, many safety courses like First Aid/CPR are included. Apprentices must combine time at the training center with on-the-job hours to advance from one level to the next, finally reaching journey level worker status.
  • Apprentices must have reliable transportation.
  • Once an applicant is indentured as an apprentice, they are expected to become a member of the Carpenters Union.  Union membership information is available from Carpenters Union Local 971 by phone at 775.323.1409.

For more information contact:
1360 Financial Blvd., P.O. Box 10947, Reno, NV 89502
Phone:  775-856-4660  |  Fax:  775-856-4661

Email:  reno@swctf.org  |  Web: www.carpenters.org