Carpenters work with wood and other construction to create residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. They are one of few tradespeople who have an active role in the entire building process. Carpenters are part of the skilled trades where there is great demand as well as competitive pay, high job satisfaction, and diverse opportunities. If you prefer hands-on work to sitting at a desk, then carpentry might be your calling. It will give you the opportunity to build and create using your imagination, knowledge, and hands. Every day will be an opportunity to overcome obstacles, gain experience, learn from other construction professionals, and create buildings that provide for the comfort and safety of others.
San Jose City College
San Jose City College offers a Construction Technology program that includes a Residential Carpentry Certificate. Students will be prepared for entry into the construction trades and have the technical skill and understanding of construction processes. Course topics include tools, materials and safety, residential construction farming, building information modeling, and OSHA construction safety standards. Graduates will be eligible for immediate employment, upgrading of job skills, and self-employment. The will demonstrate appropriate use of construction tools, methods and materials, understand construction terms, concepts and hands-on applications, read and interpret building codes, blueprints, manuals, specifications, and shop drawings, and apply effective use of emerging technologies in the construction trades include green application and energy efficiency.
Program overview:
Residential Carpentry Technology – Certificate Achievement Level I
Duration: 6 months (full-time)
Units: 9
Prerequisites:
- Submit an application via CCC online
- Complete and submit a FAFSA to the Financial Aid office if needed
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Submit high school cumulative GPA to obtain waivers for English and Math placement
- Complete the online orientation
- Schedule and attend a meeting with a counselor to develop an educational goal and plan
- Register for classes online
- Obtain a free student ID card from the student center
Program cost:
The enrollment fee is $46 per unit for students who meet California residency status.
- Website: https://www.sjcc.edu/home
- Address: 2100 Moorpark Avenue, San Jose, CA 95128
- Phone: (408) 298-2181
Piedmont Hills High School
The Construction Technology pathway at Piedmont Hills High School prepares students for a career in the construction industry and provides a head start for college. The hands-on program provides students with technical skills and the opportunity to solve real-world challenges in the classroom as well as the real world. Instructors will engage students in shadowing, national contests, and interactions with professionals. Students will learn how to operate industrial power and hand tools, identify industry standards building products, understand carpentry and woodworking procedures, and present themselves professionally in an interview. Students will earn up to 15 college credits through dual enrollment. They will qualify for CPR certification and OSHA safety certification.
Program overview:
Construction Technology – Certificate
Duration: 12 months
Units: 15
Prerequisites:
- Apply for admission to the program
- Must be a high school student
- Must have a satisfactory high school GAP
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Submit a recommendation from a teacher
Program cost:
The training is free for high school students. Students must purchase supplies for the program.
- Website: https://eastsidecareerpathways.org/
- Address: 1377 Piedmont Rd, San Jose, CA 95132
- Phone: (408) 347-3800
Laney College
The Carpentry Certificate offered by Laney College is designed to instruct students in the principles of carpentry and encourage participation in all phases of the building process. The program includes theory and hands-on activities. Students will build a new house and remodel existing structures as part of the learning process. Both on and off-campus experiences will cover construction principles, best practices, and hands-on activities to develop technical skills. Course topics include OSHA 30-hour construction, math for construction trades, high performance building, foundations and form construction, beginning carpentry, roof framing, residential plumbing, and residential electrical.
Program overview:
Carpentry Certificate
Duration: 12 months
Units: 22
Prerequisites:
- Apply for admission to Laney College online
- Obtain a student ID number
- Complete the online orientation
- Meet with a Counselor to create an educational plan
- Enroll in classes and pay the tuition and fees
Program cost:
Tuition costs $46 per unit for California residents. Books and supplies are additional.
- Website: https://laney.edu/
- Address: 900 Fallon St, Oakland, CA 94607
- Phone: (510) 834-5740