As one of the world’s oldest professions, the role of a carpenter has changed a bit throughout the years, though the skill set remains extremely sought after with the trade still a crucial part of nearly any construction project.
What first steps can you take toward building a career in carpentry?
Introductory carpentry courses are a great way to get a sense of whether the trade is right for you and to take your first steps towards building a career in the sector.
Beginning your career with a dedicated training provider is also generally more efficient than other traditional training routes such as apprenticeships or college courses.
A 5-day introductory course will cover the core skills required in the industry and has been specifically designed to feed seamlessly into more advanced carpentry courses.
What are the next steps?
Once you’ve learned your basic skills, be it through an introductory course, apprenticeship or college, a Level 2 carpentry course will teach you everything you need to be ready for employment in the industry, and what’s needed to achieve your carpentry NVQ.
These advanced carpentry courses can be completed in just 8 weeks, again making this route a much more efficient process than other entry methods.
What sort of person is a career in carpentry suited to?
Naturally, a career in carpentry is extremely hands-on and is suited to anyone who enjoys an element of physicality in their day-to-day work. Carpenters will often be expected to work outdoors, which can sometimes mean being exposed to unfavourable weather.
High attention to detail is vital when it comes to completing jobs to a high standard, while organisational skills are also valuable when it comes to scheduling workloads and ordering supplies.
What qualifications does a carpenter need?
While technically carpenters don’t actually need a formal qualification before undertaking work, gaining official accreditation is an effective way of ensuring you stand out to both potential employers and customers, as well as building a greater understanding of how to carry out work safely.
When it comes to being qualified to work on a construction site, nearly all site leaders now require carpenters to hold a CSCS card, this is where an NVQ qualification becomes mandatory.
The level of CSCS card you’ll require will depend on the roles and responsibilities you need to perform. Generally, most carpenters will qualify for a blue, gold or black CSCS card.
Able Skills offers a range of carpentry courses suited to all levels of experience, right from beginners to those seeking their NVQ Level 2. You can find more information on all of our carpentry courses here.