A carpenter is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in working with wood to construct, install, and repair structures and objects. Carpenters work with natural and engineered lumber and many other building materials to cut, shape, and install building materials during the construction of buildings, ships, timber bridges, concrete formwork, and more. They can be involved in tasks such as framing structures, installing doors and windows, building staircases, constructing cabinets and furniture, and adding finishing touches to enhance the overall appearance of a space. Carpenters can work on site, in clients homes, or in a workshop. They may move from one project to another, working on different sites or locations, and the work environment can sometimes be noisy, dusty, and exposed to the elements. Carpenters can specialize in different areas of carpentry, such as:

• Rough carpentry: This involves framing, formwork, and roofing structures.

• Finish carpentry: This involves installing finishings such as trim, molding, and cabinetry.

• Cabinetmaking: This involves designing, building, and installing cabinets.

• Ship carpentry: This involves building and repairing ships and boats.

• Scenic carpentry: This involves building sets for film and theatre companies.

To become a carpenter, one can gain the qualifications needed by doing a college course or an apprenticeship. The expected salary for a carpenter varies as they become more experienced, and salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, and the amount of overtime worked.