Carpenter Apprenticeship – Nez Perce Tribal Employment Rights Office
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Idaho / Carpenter Apprenticeship – Nez Perce Tribal Employment Rights Office
Carpenter Apprenticeship – Nez Perce Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) – Lapwai, ID
Program Information
The Carpenter Apprenticeship through the Nez Perce Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) offers a structured pathway into the carpentry trade with a focus on bridge construction, heavy civil projects, and structural carpentry. Apprentices work directly under experienced journeyman bridge carpenters, gaining hands-on training that prepares them for long-term careers in construction. This program is designed to build fundamental carpentry skills while giving apprentices real job-site experience on active bridge and highway infrastructure projects.
Apprentices learn essential carpentry techniques such as measuring, cutting, framing, building forms, structural assembly, and working with wood and composite materials used in bridge decks and traffic railing systems. Participants receive instruction in reading blueprints, interpreting measurements, safely handling carpentry tools, and understanding construction sequencing for large-scale bridge projects. Safety is a core part of the training due to the nature of bridge work, and apprentices learn job-site standards related to fall protection, working over water, heavy equipment zones, and safe tool operation.
A unique benefit of this apprenticeship is the support provided through TERO. Apprentices may receive assistance in obtaining approved tool belts, hand tools, tape measures, safety gear, and other basic equipment required for the trade. This makes the program accessible to individuals entering the workforce for the first time or transitioning into carpentry from other fields. Apprentices also gain exposure to tribal workforce development resources and support systems that help them progress successfully through their training.
By the end of the apprenticeship, individuals will have the experience needed to work on bridge crews, highway projects, and large-scale commercial or civil carpentry roles. Graduates are well-prepared to continue their careers as journeyman carpenters, with opportunities to specialize in bridge construction, heavy civil carpentry, and other high-demand sectors of the construction industry.
Program Length
4-year registered apprenticeship combining on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
Program Requirements
- Minimum age of 18
- Able to lift 50 pounds or more
- Ability to work outdoors in active construction environments
- Willingness to follow safety procedures and instructions from journeyman carpenters
Compensation & Benefits
- Hourly pay ranges from $13.71 to $27.41 based on experience and progression
- USDOL Registered Apprenticeship may provide assistance for required tools
- Hands-on work experience on bridge and highway projects
- Career advancement opportunities upon completion of apprenticeship
Security Clearance Requirements
- Must pass a contractor-provided drug test
Required Documentation
- Tribal ID
- Social Security Card
- State-issued Identification
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
This is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you will earn while you learn.
- Paid on-the-job training with increasing wages
- Classroom or technical instruction provided by the program
- No tuition costs — apprentices are paid during training
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
Because apprenticeships are managed through the U.S. Department of Labor, College Scorecard data for tuition and earnings does not apply. Apprenticeships provide real-world experience and a direct path to journeyman-level wages without student debt.