A lot of people want to become a carpenter, but they are afraid that it will be too expensive and difficult for them.
Apprenticeship programs or on-the-job training in carpentry is not as expensive as a college education, so you can start working sooner than other students. It is a great opportunity to learn the trade while earning some money.
If you want to become a carpenter apprentice in Idaho then there are many options for you to do this. Just contact some local companies offering apprenticeships in carpentry trades and find out what kind of requirements they have before accepting applicants into their program such as previous work experience or age limit (generally 16-21).
The second way you can do this is to check out a union or a local vocational school near your area that offers an apprenticeship program and ask about their fees and financial aid options if any are available. If you’re looking for a union or institution where you can apply for an apprenticeship, see the below list.
There is no tuition for getting into the apprenticeship program but you usually just have to shoulder the fees for some materials. The program usually takes 3-4 years to complete and upon completion, you will earn the journeyman level.
Carpenter Training Schools in Idaho
If you want to take is to become an apprentice, here the unions and organizations where you can apply for the program:
- Southern Idaho Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship & Training Center (UBC)
4147 North Haroldsen Dr., Idaho Falls, ID, 83401
Phone: (503) 287-3708, Fax: (503) 595-5455 - Treasure Valley Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship & Training Center (UBC)
965 S. Industry Way, Ste 104, Meridian, ID, 83642
Phone: (503) 287-3708, Fax: (503) 595-5455 - Northwest Carpenters' Union
Serving Idaho and neighboring states
Phone: (253) 945-8800 or Toll Free: (800) 573-8333 - Pacific Northwest Carpenters Institute
965 S. Industry Way Suite 104, Meridian, ID 83642
Phone: 503-317-7628
4147 N Haroldsen, Idaho Falls, ID 83405
Phone: 503-317-7628 - IdahoWorks
4147 N. Haroldsen Dr, Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401
Phone (503) 887-4991 - Carpenter & Millwright Local Union 808
4147 N Haroldsen Dr., Idaho Falls, ID 83401
Phone: (208) 524-2409
If you are looking for a trade school where you want to earn a certificate or degree in carpentry, here are your choices:
- North Idaho College
1000 W. Garden Ave., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Phone: (208) 769-3437, (208) 769-3448 - Accelerated Technical Training Institute
1111 S Orchard St #252, Boise, ID 83705
Phone: +1 800-775-5753 - Idaho State University
921 S 8th Ave, Pocatello, ID
Phone: +1 208-282-2475
How Long Does It Take to Complete the Apprenticeship Program
Whether you’re in a union or not, the average length of an apprenticeship is 3-4 years, which means you will learn hands-on skills working alongside other skilled journeymen. The program is a combination of classroom and on-the-job training.
Apprenticeships are designed with the intention of getting you hired after completing your training period, but there aren't many programs out there that provide this kind of guarantee.
Apprenticeships require a lot of time and effort, but the payoff is worth it if you stick with it.
We have prepared the unions and institutions that offer apprenticeship programs in Idaho, so you can easily search for one near you. Please see above. You just have to inquire with them about the requirements and openings so that you can start your journey of becoming a carpenter.
Do You Need to Go to College to Become an Apprentice Carpenter?
There is a lot of confusion around this topic because some people believe that you need to have a college degree in order to become an apprentice.
Most carpenters start out as apprentices and they are paid well for it! They learn the trade while earning money at the same time. You can also obtain valuable skills, such as how to use specific power tools or how to read blueprints and make drawings.
It's not necessary to go back to school in order to become an apprentice. All you need is patience, determination and hard work. Carpenters Union prefers to hire those candidates with the right skills and attitude.
Do You Need a License to Work in Idaho as a Carpenter?
It is not required for you to have a license to work as a carpenter contractor in the state of Idaho. However, for you to be able to have a business permit, you need to be registered with Idaho Contractors Board. If your business is engaged in private construction work, this is the same regulatory body you will be dealing with. On the other hand, if your business is engaged in public works, you need to apply for a license in the Idaho Division of Building Safety. Unlike in other states, In Idaho, licensing doesn’t require you to pass an exam but rather just submit requirements to apply for contractor registration. The requirement that you need to submit is the liability insurance document, notarized application and the application fee of $30.
The application together with the other requirement and application has to be submitted by mail to Idaho Contractor Board, Bureau of Occupational Licenses, 700 West State Street, P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0063, if you have further inquiries, contact them at this phone number Phone #: (208) 334-3233, Fax #: (208) 334-3945.
After Completing the Program, NCCER Certification is Good to Earn
NCCER certification is the first step in a carpenter's journey to becoming a professional. Whether you are just starting out or have been in the industry for years, NCCER offers tests and certifications that can help you reach your goals. Explore this page to learn more about what NCCER has to offer for carpenters looking to grow their skillset and knowledge base. For more info, see this page.
NCCER certification is a professional-level qualification for carpenters. This certification teaches students the knowledge and skills they need to do their job safely, efficiently, and with quality workmanship. It can be an excellent opportunity for advancement in the field of carpentry or it can fulfill requirements for registration as a carpenter apprentice.
How Much You Can Make If You Work in Idaho as a Carpenter
Look, nobody ever said that carpentry was going to be easy. But it's better than you thought. And the perks are even more surprising: The average carpenter earns over $40 an hour and many jobs can be lucrative enough to turn a skilled tradesperson into a six- or seven-figure earner. Trust us, this is one job where the money literally speaks for itself.
According to the latest July 25, 2023 report of Salary.com, the average you can make when working in the state of Idaho is 57,313, but depending on some other factors it falls between $49,528 and $66,364. in the neighboring state of Montana, the salary is a little lower.
Carpenter salaries vary based on the type of carpenter you are, and the degree of your education. In general, though, we can say that qualified carpenters have struggled with too few job offers for a number of years. This is changing and apprentice positions are more readily available. Still, it's not as easy to find work in carpentry as it was 20 or 30 years ago making their wages some of the best in manufacturing occupations today.
If you have the skill and the drive, your career as a carpenter could be very rewarding. In fact, if you want to make top dollar quickly it's this is what we recommend. Consider putting in time as an apprentice or laborer to gain valuable experience before moving up the ranks from there.
To Make a Conclusion
The carpenter apprenticeship program in Idaho offered by a union is a great way to start your journey as a craftsman. If you want more hands-on experience, consider this program where you can learn about carpentry and construction methods while working alongside skilled professionals. It’s never too early or late in life to take up this trade - so why not start now?
