Western States Carpenters Apprenticeship Program
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Western States Carpenters Apprenticeship Program – Western U.S.
Program Information
The Western States Carpenters Apprenticeship Program is one of the largest and most comprehensive carpenter training systems in the United States, representing more than 90,000 union carpenters across the Western region. Operated through the Western States Carpenters Training Fund (WSCTF), this registered apprenticeship provides a proven earn-while-you-learn pathway into a stable, well-paid construction career. The program is designed for individuals with little to no prior construction experience who want to develop in-demand skills while earning a living wage from the very beginning.
Apprentices receive a combination of paid on-the-job training with signatory employers of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, along with structured classroom instruction at a WSCTF training center. On the job, apprentices work alongside experienced journey-level carpenters on active construction sites, gaining real-world experience in framing, concrete formwork, interior systems, and general carpentry. In the classroom, apprentices build a strong technical foundation that supports long-term career growth and advancement.
Training emphasizes safety, craftsmanship, productivity, and professionalism. Apprentices complete industry-recognized safety certifications, learn proper tool and equipment usage, and develop core carpentry skills such as wall framing, layout, and material handling. As apprentices progress through the program, responsibilities increase and skills become more advanced, preparing them to work independently and lead crews as journey-level carpenters.
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, participants advance to Journey Worker status and receive trade certificates recognized by both the state where they trained and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. Graduates also gain access to continuous education and advanced specialty training, allowing them to stay current with evolving construction methods and technologies throughout their careers.
Program Length
- Most carpenter apprenticeship programs last 4 years
- Some specialized programs may extend to 5 years
- Includes progressive on-the-job training and annual classroom instruction
Hands-On Training
Apprentices receive practical instruction in:
- Basic and advanced wall framing
- Tool and equipment applications
- Construction safety and health certifications
- Material handling and jobsite layout
- Working as part of a professional construction crew
Wages & Benefits
Carpenter apprentices earn wages from their first day on the job, with regular pay increases as they complete classroom hours and accumulate on-the-job training. First-period apprentices typically earn about 40% of a Journey Worker’s wage, with steady progression each year of the program. Over the course of the apprenticeship, earning potential can range from approximately $16,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on location, hours worked, and wage scale.
Union-trained carpenters also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage, along with retirement and pension benefits. These benefits are earned through union contracts and provide long-term financial security beyond hourly wages.
Working Hours & Training Schedule
- Jobsite hours typically run 6:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday
- Classroom training requires 160 hours per year
- Classroom schedule is generally 6:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday
- Travel of 30–90 minutes to jobsites may be required
Program Requirements
- Must bring personal hand tools to jobsite and classroom
- Attend 160 hours of classroom training annually
- Purchase required books (training itself is provided at no cost)
- Ability to meet the physical demands of construction work
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Western States Carpenters Apprenticeship Program is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Carpentry.
- 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.