Carpenter at Detroit Carpenters Training Center

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Detroit Carpenters Training Center in Detroit, MI

About This Program

The Detroit Carpenters Training Center sponsors a registered Carpenter apprenticeship program in Detroit, MI. This time-based program is designed for individuals who want to build a lasting career in the construction trades through paid, structured training in the heart of Michigan's largest city.

The program runs for four years, combining 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced journeymen learning framing, formwork, finish carpentry, and interior systems, while classroom sessions cover blueprint reading, construction math, safety regulations, and applicable building codes.

Graduates complete the program as journeyman carpenters with the skills and credentials to pursue steady employment across Detroit's residential, commercial, and industrial construction sectors. Apprentices are paid from the start of training, with wages increasing as they progress through each stage of the program.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$26

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

4 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.

Carpenter Career Outlook

National Median

$25.87/hr

~$53,809.6/yr

Apprentice Start

$14.5/hr

Earn while you learn

Job Outlook

Carpenter employment is projected to grow in line with construction activity. Residential building, commercial renovation, and infrastructure projects all drive demand. Carpenters with diverse skills across framing, finishing, and concrete work have the strongest prospects. The trade continues to face a shortage of younger workers, creating opportunities for new entrants.

What to Expect as a Carpenter Apprentice

Duration

4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction

On-the-Job Training

~40 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)

Classroom Instruction

576 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)

Paid Training

You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress

Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Carpenter

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration4 years
Starting wage$14.50/hr
Journeyman wage$25.87/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

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