A Carpenter is a skilled tradesperson who constructs, installs, and repairs structures and fixtures made from wood and other materials. This profession combines manual skill with creativity to build and maintain buildings, furniture, and more.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Apprenticeship
Projected Growth: 0.9% (below average)
Annual job openings: 74,100
Direct AI exposure: 4% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 13% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $61K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $40K per year | $48K per year | $61K per year | $77K per year | $100K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $9.6K above the national average. | ||||
Carpenters typically work on construction sites, both in residential and commercial settings. The work environment can be indoor or outdoor, and it often involves working at heights or in various weather conditions. Safety is a key concern due to the use of power tools and the physical nature of the work.
Carpentry is a diverse and dynamic trade that is essential in the construction industry. Carpenters are known for their ability to transform raw materials into finished structures and products. This trade requires not only physical strength and endurance but also precision and attention to detail. Carpenters must understand building materials, construction techniques, and tools, as well as be able to read and interpret blueprints and other construction documents.
The work is often collaborative, requiring good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team. Carpenters must also be adaptable, as they may work on a variety of projects, each with its unique challenges and requirements. This trade offers a blend of indoor and outdoor work, providing a change of scenery and tasks which can be appealing to many.
As technology evolves, so does the field of carpentry. Modern carpenters may use advanced tools and technologies, such as computer-aided design (CAD) software, making the ability to continually learn and adapt a vital part of the job.
Carpentry usually requires a high school diploma followed by a formal apprenticeship program. This combination of education and hands-on training typically takes about 3-4 years to complete.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.