On the job, you will ...

• Work on high-rise buildings, bridges and major infrastructure projects
• Measure, cut and install wood, metal and other construction materials using hand and power tools 
• Work with construction drawings (blueprints) to frame walls, build concrete forms, install drywall and ceilings, and perform other commercial carpentry tasks 

Some of the career options you will have ...

Most Job Corps Carpentry Pre-Apprentice graduates go on to work in union commercial carpentry jobs while attending a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). Other pursue careers in residential carpentry or other public- and private-sector jobs as pile drive operators, drywall and ceiling tile installers, commercial drivers, millwrights or floor layers. 

The credentials you will earn ...

Students training in the Carpentry, Pre-Apprentice training program can earn a pre-apprentice certificate of completion from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC) that offers registered apprenticeship opportunities with paid on-the-job experience. Students will also earn industry-recognized credentials including UBC scaffold training and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) construction safety. 

Students must earn a state-issued learner’s permit and driver’s license upon completion of the program. 

What you’ll need to start training ...

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent (can be earned at all Job Corps centers) 
• Completion of all introductory and career preparation courses 
• Passing scores on all written and performance tests 
• Meet academic (math and reading) requirements
• Compliance with state requirements that may involve a criminal background check, and completion of a training program meeting federal content requirements