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 Trade Spotlight: Carpenters in the Pacific Northwest

“Building the Northwest One Board at a Time.”

Every house, bridge, and school starts with a carpenter.
They’re the ones framing walls, installing doors, setting stairs, and finishing details that bring a building to life.
If you like creating things you can stand back and admire — carpentry might be your trade.

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What Do Carpenters Do?

Carpenters construct, install, and repair structures made of wood and other materials.
From framing homes and commercial buildings to crafting cabinets and installing floors — they do it all.

Their work includes:

  • Building frameworks like walls, rafters, and stairways

  • Installing doors, windows, cabinets, and siding

  • Reading blueprints and layout drawings

  • Measuring, cutting, and assembling materials

  • Operating power tools and construction equipment

Some carpenters specialize in concrete formwork, finish carpentry, or insulation installation, while others focus on industrial or commercial construction.

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Work Environment

Carpenters work both indoors and outdoors — on residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Expect to climb ladders, work in all weather conditions, and use a mix of hand tools and heavy equipment.
It’s physical work that rewards precision, endurance, and problem-solving.

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How to Become a Carpenter

Most carpenters start through a 3- to 4-year apprenticeship, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Some begin with vocational classes in high school or technical college before applying to an apprenticeship.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED recommended

  • Strong math and measurement skills

  • Ability to read blueprints and follow safety standards

  • Physical stamina and steady hands

Apprenticeships are available through union locals (Carpenters & Joiners) or non-union trade programs across the Northwest.

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Pay in the Pacific Northwest (2025)

StateAverage Pay (2025)Range

Washington~$66,000/yr (~$32/hr)$48K – $85K+

Oregon~$62,000/yr (~$30/hr)$45K – $80K+

Idaho~$56,000/yr (~$27/hr)$42K – $70K

💰 Union carpenters and those working on commercial or infrastructure projects often earn above these averages.

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Job Outlook

Carpentry is one of the fastest-growing trades in the Pacific Northwest.
Employment is projected to grow around 8%–10% nationally (2024–2034), with the Northwest seeing even higher demand due to new housing and infrastructure development.

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Key Growth Drivers:

  1. Housing and commercial construction

  2. Renovation and remodeling demand

  3. Infrastructure and transportation projects

  4. Retirement of experienced workers

If you’re reliable, hard-working, and love seeing your results in real life — carpentry is a trade with steady work and real pride.

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Real Talk for the PNW

Big cities like Seattle and Portland offer higher pay, but smaller towns often bring steadier jobs and stronger communities.
You’ll work hard — but you’ll also create things that last generations.
This is a trade for builders, creators, and people who take pride in solid craftsmanship.

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Learn More

Start your journey or explore apprenticeship options:

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💬 Ready to Build Your Future?

If you like working with your hands, problem-solving on the fly, and seeing real results — carpentry delivers.
It’s one of the oldest trades out there, and one of the most rewarding.

👉 Learn more about career paths in the trades? Email us here! (We promise a quick reply)

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