Carpenter at Saginaw Carpenters Training Center

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Saginaw Carpenters Training Center in Saginaw, MI

About This Program

The Saginaw Carpenters Training Center sponsors a registered Carpenter apprenticeship program in Saginaw, MI. This time-based program is open to individuals ready to enter the carpentry trade through a structured, paid training path in central Michigan.

The four-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop practical skills in framing, formwork, finish carpentry, and interior systems while working alongside experienced tradespeople. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, building codes, safety regulations, and construction mathematics.

Upon completing the program, apprentices become journeyman carpenters prepared for employment across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects. The program is paid throughout, and apprentices can expect progressive wage increases as they advance through each level of training and build their skill set.

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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