Carpenter at Western States Carpenters Training JATC
at Western States Carpenters Training JATC in Portland, OR
About This Program
The Western States Carpenters Training JATC sponsors this union carpenter apprenticeship based in Portland, Oregon. As a Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) program, it offers apprentices the backing of both union labor and signatory contractors, providing structured entry into the carpentry trade with pay from day one.
This time-based program runs four years and combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. On the job, apprentices work alongside journey-level carpenters on real construction sites, learning framing, form building, finish work, and more. Classroom instruction covers blueprint reading, construction math, building codes, and safety standards including OSHA requirements.
Upon completing the program, graduates earn journeyman carpenter status — a recognized credential that opens doors to steady employment across commercial, residential, and industrial construction. Union membership provides additional benefits including negotiated wages, healthcare, and retirement contributions.
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
Licensing in Oregon
Carpenters in Oregon are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Oregon Construction Contractors Board.
View full Oregonlicensing requirements →Reviews
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