Carpenter at Southern Idaho Carpenters JATC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Southern Idaho Carpenters JATC in Idaho Falls, ID

About This Program

Southern Idaho Carpenters JATC sponsors a union Carpenter Apprenticeship program based in Idaho Falls, ID. This Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program offers a structured, earn-while-you-learn path into the carpentry trade, backed by the professional standards and labor representation that come with union affiliation.

The four-year apprenticeship combines 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices build skills across key carpentry areas including structural framing, concrete forming, finish carpentry, safety compliance, and blueprint interpretation. Classroom learning is integrated with field work to ensure apprentices develop both practical ability and technical knowledge.

Upon successful completion, apprentices become journey-level carpenters with union credentials, opening access to employment opportunities across Idaho's growing construction sector. Southern Idaho Carpenters JATC's regional connections provide graduates with a strong network to launch and sustain a skilled carpentry career.

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.

How to Apply

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

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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