With Canada’s continuous efforts to be a major player in world economy, it’s not a surprise why building and infrastructure stays on its must-do list. As a result, a job that is generally perceived as an old-fashioned or outdated one is, in fact, one of the most in demand more than ever especially in the British Columbia province, according to the Global News website. It is also starting to grow in Manitoba, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Ontario, P.E.I. and the Yukon.

A carpenter is profession that can’t easily be replaced by technology or machine as one would always need to come in and do the work manually, whether they are working on commercial or private properties.

Carpenters – What You Need to Know

For the most part, carpenters are responsible for the wood or steel components to be utilized in any structure, be it as a foundation or framing itself or doors, windows, and furniture. They often work with tools or machinery to carry out their duties. Due of the nature of their job, carpenters are expected to be in the best of health to be able to carry heavy items and be flexible and adaptive enough to work at any kind of environment, whether it is within a house, shop, building, or the site itself. Work hazards are a given in this profession, and thus carpenters should be well-aware of safety measures like wearing protective clothing at all times and others.

While to be successful in the carpentry field requires a great deal of physical skills and knowledge in machines and tools, carpenters are also required to have excellent attention to detail as they have to deliver products that are not only functional but also aesthetically and consistently pleasing. Carpenters should also be able to read and interpret blueprints easily and have good mathematical knowledge to deduce measurements. With these in mind, you can tell that carpentry is both a physically and mentally demanding.

Salary

According to PayScale.com, a carpenter can earn an average of $33,352 to $75,991 a year, with more experienced workers having the potential to earn more.

Skills

Physical prowess and mental strengths are a must for this job. A high school diploma or equivalent is required as well, and taking elective courses such as shop, industrial arts, and mechanical drawing can prove to be an advantage. It is recommended to undergo a pre-apprenticeship program and afterward an apprenticeship program with a certified carpenter or what is referred to as a journeyperson. The time it takes to complete these programs, which consist both of classroom and on-site training, vary depending on the location, but it generally takes four 12-month periods.

Carpenters who target to work in Quebec must obtain certification, where it is required. In other provinces and territories, certification is voluntary. However, it is always an asset to obtain certification even in locations where it is not required. The certification process involves a four-year apprenticeship program, plus four years on-the-job experience. If you wish to take it further, you can also look into applying for the Red Seal where you can work as a carpenter anywhere in Canada.

Pros and Cons

The biggest advantage of being a carpenter is that it helps you be in tip-top shape as physical strengths are a large part of the job. With any job that’s focused on this, you tend to take care of yourself more, knowing that your livelihood depends on it.

The biggest disadvantage are the hazards that are part of the job. Some environments can be downright noisy that you may develop hearing sensitivity while some environments are polluted that you may develop sensitivity in your respiratory system. It is therefore important to practice safety measures at all times to minimize these hazards.

SOURCES:

https://globalnews.ca/news/3854605/jobs-making-a-comeback-canada/

https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Carpenter/Hourly_Rate

http://www.careersinconstruction.ca/en/career/carpenter