Michigan Carpenters and Millwrights – Detroit
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Michigan / Michigan Carpenters and Millwrights – Detroit
Michigan Carpenters and Millwrights – Detroit, MI
Program Information
The Michigan Carpenters and Millwrights Apprenticeship Program in Detroit provides one of the most comprehensive training paths for individuals seeking careers in carpentry, millwrighting, or industrial construction. This program combines in-depth classroom learning with supervised, hands-on experience to prepare apprentices for the technical, physical, and safety demands of both trades. Through partnerships with union contractors and major construction firms across Michigan, apprentices work on real job sites from the beginning—gaining exposure to residential builds, commercial developments, and large-scale mechanical installations.
Carpentry training includes everything from rough framing, concrete formwork, scaffolding, and exterior systems to more advanced skills like trim work, cabinetry, and interior finishing. Apprentices learn to interpret construction documents, measure and cut materials accurately, and operate hand and power tools safely. Instruction also emphasizes job site communication, efficient workflow, and meeting quality standards expected in the modern construction industry. Because Detroit continues to experience expansion in residential and commercial development, apprentices gain valuable experience on active projects throughout the region.
Millwright training focuses on precision installation, alignment, maintenance, and repair of industrial machinery. Apprentices learn to work with conveyors, turbines, pumps, motors, robotics, and production systems used in manufacturing, automotive plants, energy facilities, and distribution centers. Training includes blueprint reading, welding fundamentals, rigging and hoisting, vibration analysis, and equipment troubleshooting. The blend of mechanical knowledge and hands-on practice makes millwrights highly specialized professionals whose skills are in demand across Michigan’s industrial sector.
The program promotes a strong safety culture, with OSHA-aligned training integrated throughout all coursework and field assignments. Apprentices learn proper fall protection, lockout/tagout procedures, hazard communication, tool safety, and job site risk assessment. Union instructors emphasize professionalism, teamwork, and leadership—qualities essential for progressing toward journeyman status.
One of the key benefits of this apprenticeship is the “earn while you learn” structure. Apprentices receive competitive wages, scheduled raises as they advance through the program, and access to union benefits such as health insurance, pension plans, and ongoing training opportunities. Graduates complete the program fully qualified to work as journeyman carpenters or millwrights, often securing long-term employment with contractors across Michigan’s commercial, residential, and industrial markets.
Program Length
4 years (includes 1,000 hours of classroom instruction and 6,000 hours of on-the-job training)
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Strong physical fitness
- Good hand-eye coordination and mechanical aptitude
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Michigan Carpenters and Millwrights – Detroit is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Construction.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.