Person using a track saw to cut plywood precisely with a guide rail on a workbench indoors

Carpenter

Aerial view of wooden frame construction site with workers building a large residential structure.

Become a Carpenter in Georgia

Union Carpenter Apprenticeship & Careers

Carpenters build the structures that shape modern construction. From concrete forms and structural framing to interior finishes and commercial interiors, carpenters are involved in nearly every stage of building projects.

In Georgia, many carpenters begin their careers through a union apprenticeship with the Southeast Carpenters Regional Council, which represents skilled carpenters working across the region.

If you enjoy building things, working with tools, and seeing the results of your work take shape on major projects, carpentry can provide a stable, high-paying career without the need for a college degree.


What Carpenters Do

Carpenters build, install, and assemble structural and interior components used in construction projects.

Their work includes:

• Building concrete forms for foundations and structures
• Framing walls, floors, and roofs
• Installing doors, windows, and trim
• Building scaffolding and temporary structures
• Installing cabinets and interior finishes
• Reading blueprints and construction drawings
• Using power tools and precision measuring equipment

Carpenters must understand construction methods, measurements, safety procedures, and building plans.


Where Carpenters Work

Carpenters work on many types of construction projects across Georgia, including:

• Commercial office buildings
• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Schools and universities
• Stadiums and arenas
• Airports
• Data centers
• Industrial facilities
• Large residential developments

Carpenters are involved in both the structural building phase and the finishing stages of construction.


Example Projects Carpenters Work On

Union carpenters help build and maintain projects such as:

• Large commercial office towers
• Atlanta-area hospitals and medical centers
• Stadiums and sports facilities
• Airport terminals and transportation projects
• Data centers and technology facilities
• Schools and university campuses

Carpenters play a key role in shaping the structure and interiors of modern buildings.


Carpenter Apprenticeship Program

Most union carpenters start their careers through a registered apprenticeship program.

The Southeast Carpenters apprenticeship program includes:

• Paid on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction
• Hands-on construction training

Apprentices earn wages while learning the trade and receive regular pay increases as their skills develop.


How Long the Apprenticeship Takes

Carpenter apprenticeship programs typically last:

4 years

During that time apprentices complete:

• ~8,000 hours of on-the-job training
• Classroom instruction at regional training centers

Training covers:

• Blueprint reading
• Concrete formwork
• Framing and layout
• Interior systems installation
• Scaffolding
• Construction safety

After completing the program, apprentices become journeyman carpenters.


Local Union for Carpenters in Georgia

Southeast Carpenters Regional Council

The Southeast Carpenters Regional Council represents union carpenters working throughout Georgia and the southeastern United States.

Members receive access to:

• Apprenticeship training
• Health insurance
• Retirement and pension benefits
• Job opportunities on major construction projects
• Advanced training and certifications


How To Apply for the Carpenter Apprenticeship

To apply for the apprenticeship program, contact the regional training program:

Southeast Carpenters Regional Council

Website
https://www.carpenters.org

Phone
(770) 416-0128

Location
Atlanta, Georgia

Applicants typically need:

• High school diploma or GED
• Basic math skills
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to perform construction work


Why Choose a Career as a Carpenter?

Carpenters enjoy careers that offer:

• Strong wages and union benefits
• Paid apprenticeship training
• Opportunities to work on major construction projects
• A wide range of specialties within the trade
• Long-term demand for skilled workers

Carpenters help build the structures and spaces where people live, work, and gather.