Carpenter at South Florida Carpenters JATC
at South Florida Carpenters JATC in Fort Lauderdale, FL
About This Program
South Florida Carpenters JATC sponsors this union carpenter apprenticeship in Fort Lauderdale, FL. As a Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program, it provides union-backed, employer-supported training for individuals entering the carpentry trade in one of Florida's most dynamic and fast-growing construction markets. Apprentices earn wages from the first day of the program while building skills in the field.
The program runs 4 years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop proficiency in framing, concrete forming, finish carpentry, interior and exterior systems, and millwork installation. Coursework covers blueprint reading, construction math, Florida building codes, and OSHA safety certification.
Graduates earn journey-level carpenter status with union credentials recognized across South Florida and the Southeast. Fort Lauderdale and the broader South Florida market continue to see robust construction activity in commercial, residential, and mixed-use development, and JATC membership provides access to negotiated wages, healthcare, and retirement benefits.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$26
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
4 years
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.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Carpenter
Apprenticeship
Trade School
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