Carpenters build and repair a vast array of structures made of wood, wood-substitutes and other materials. Many work for construction companies, contractors and maintenance departments while others are self-employed. Carpenter is a nationally designated trade under the Inter-provincial Red Seal program. (Find out about Red Seal in the Trades Lingo section.)



What do these workers do?
(Source: BC Work Futures)

Reading blueprints to develop a materials list and cutting schedule that makes the best use of lumber.

Using hand and power tools to cut and shape wood after making careful measurements.

Framing for wood frame houses and low-rise apartments.

Manufacture wooden assemblies, such as roofing trusses and beams, that will be installed on the job site by other workers.

Work to standards outlined in provincial and national building codes, understand these standards and stay current with changes to building codes.

Construction carpentry in Canada makes extensive use of load-bearing panel walls and this technology requires a good understanding.

An ability to plan a job from blueprints will make the best use of dimensional lumber.

In finish carpentry or custom timber framing, you will use advanced fitting and measurement skills to make pieces that precisely fit the site and the building. This may involves taking a mould or making a pattern to fabricate the finished piece.

Read the full Carpenter Profile (40kb pdf).

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