Carpentry is a profession that requires skill to shape, cut, and fit materials in building and remodeling projects. The projected job growth for the profession is higher than the average for all professions due in part to the volume of new building projects to accommodate population growth. Apart from the job opportunities, carpenters enjoy flexibility, variety, and incorporation of new techniques and technology in their trade.
Carpenters can work in a single niche or diversify according to their needs. The commercial, residential, and industrial sectors are all avenues for credible employment. Commercial projects include hospitals and shopping centers. Building tunnels and bridges are some projects that fall within the industrial sectors. Residential projects include remodeling and building homes and condominiums.
There is a host of educational programs available for prospective carpenters to develop the skills needed for employment. Vocational and technical schools offer short-term certificate programs. Some take the apprenticeship route which might include the opportunity to earn while learning the trade. Carpenters in New York do not need to be licensed. However, contractors engaged in home improvement projects must obtain a license from the Department of Consumer Affairs.
Rockland BOCES
Students enrolled in the Carpenter Certificate Program at Rockland BOCES will acquire skills to qualify for employment as a carpenter. The program includes a 10-hour OSHA certification. Students will learn through theory and hands-on experiences on campus and off-site facilities. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 10:30 am. Hours for the Carpentry II class are Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 2:15 pm.
Program overview:
Carpentry I & II Certificate
Contact hours: 874
Courses:
Renovation Work, Organizational Skills, Reading Blueprints, Estimating Procedures, Green Construction, Sheetrocking, Layout and Design, Trimming, Roofing
Prerequisites:
- Obtain a passing score on an admission assessment – reading comprehension
- Complete a satisfactory interview with an Admissions Representative
- Must complete Year I to proceed to Year II
- Complete prerequisite coursework – applicants with two years of full-time work experience may apply for a waiver
- Submit a completed application package
- Pay the required tuition
Program cost:
Tuition for the program is $15,800. Supplies will cost approximately $550.
Website: https://www.rocklandboces.org/
Address: 65 Parrott Road, West Nyack, NY 10994
Phone: (845) 627-4700
Apex Technical School
The Construction & Building Skills program at Apex Technical School includes a module for carpentry. Students will work with tools and equipment to build skills and confidence to work in several areas of the construction industry. The curriculum includes a combination of carpentry courses, electrical courses, plumbing courses, and kitchen and bath remodeling. The carpentry segment is an introductory class that covers safe carpentry practices and use of tools, wall, ceiling and floor framing, framing and installation of windows, exterior doors and roof, and basics of the equipment used.
Program overview:
Construction & Building Skills
Contact hours: 900
Courses:
Safe Carpentry Practices, Tools; General Introduction to Construction Trade; Wall, Ceiling, & Floor Framing; Framing & Installation of Windows, Exterior Doors, & Roofs; Carpentry Equipment; Introduction to the National Electric Code; Electric Testing Equipment, Electric Blueprints, Safe Use of Electric Tools, Introduction to Plumbing, Plumbing History, Construction Math; Hand Tools; Power Tools; Plumbing Drawings; Residential Wiring; Insulation, Electrical Boxes & Fittings; Lighting Basics, Energy Efficient Illumination
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 17 years old. Applicants under 18 must have parental consent
- Take and pass a standardized exam – for applicants who do not have a high school diploma
- Attend an interview with an Admission Representative
- Determine eligibility for financial assistance
Program cost:
The approximate cost of completing the program is $24,727 for full-time students. The cost includes textbooks, supplies, and fees. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://apexschool.com/
Address: 24-02 Queens Plaza South, Long Island City, NY 11101
Phone: (212) 645-3300
How Long Does It Take to Become A Carpenter in New York City?
There are few carpentry schools in New York City. The available programs lead to a certificate in plumbing which can be completed in 6 to 12 weeks.
Do I Need a License to Become a Carpenter In New York City?
New York State does not require carpenters to obtain a license to work. A home improvement contractor license is required for some types of projects.
How Much is Carpentry School in New York City?
The cost of a carpentry program at a public school is $15,000 and approximately $25,000 at private schools. The cost for books and supplies is additional.
How Much Does a Carpenter Make in New York City?
The base salary for a carpenter in New York City is $63,850. Experienced carpenters earn an average annual wage of $78,400.