Explosive population growth in Los Angeles and environs drives demand for trade and construction skills one of which is carpentry. Carpenters are vital for the construction of new homes and the maintenance of existing homes. They are also essential in commercial and industrial sites to construct, install, and repair building frameworks such as walls, door frames, and floors. A carpenter must be able to follow blueprints and building plans and perform basic calculations. Carpentry schools will cover all the skills needed to work competently in the industry. Some programs offer the option to earn an associate degree although a degree isn’t a requirement for most jobs. Programs are offered by vocational schools and colleges. Another common way to enter the industry is through an apprenticeship program.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for carpenters was $48,330 in 2019. The job outlook for carpenters is positive with an expected employment increase of 8% between 2018 and 2028, which is higher than the national average for all occupations.
Los Angeles Trade Technical College
LATTC prepares adults with the skills to become a carpenter through its Carpentry Associate in Science degree and a Carpentry Construction Technologies Associate in Arts degree as well as Certificates of Achievement program. Applicants with no experience who are seeking an entry-level position in the field can select the AS or Certificate option. The AA is designed for adults who are looking to expand their skills in the field. Instructors will help students master skills such as the arrangement of materials according to local building codes, working from blueprints, constructing, install and repairing structures made from wood, using hand and powered tools, and joining materials with nails, screw, and staples. Required courses include Calculations and Measurement for Woodworking Students, Hand and Power Tools Application, Basic Blueprint Reading and Core Construction Skills, Basic House Construction, Calculations and Measurements for Woodworking, Advanced Residential Estimating, Concrete Construction, and Residential Exterior Finish.
Program overview:
Carpentry – Certificate of Achievement
Duration: 4 Semesters
Course units: 48
Prerequisites:
- Submit a completed LATTC Application
- Complete the Self-Placement portion of the application using the HS transcript as a reference
- Complete an Online Orientation
- Draft an education plan with the help of a school counselor
- Apply for financial aid
Program cost:
The cost of tuition is $1,830 per year for resident students. The cost for books and supplies must be added to the final cost.
Website: http://www.lattc.edu/academics/pathways/cmu/certificates-degrees/carpentry
Address: 400 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles 90015
Phone: (213) 763-7000
Fax: (213) 763-5393