Often, carpenters and builders are considered the same occupation, but their roles are very different. While a builder specializes in wood, a laborer can also be a carpenter, mason, or metal fabricator. All these workers must create a habitable structure. Apprentices usually start with about 18 years of experience in carpentry before they can apply for a license. However, there are some differences between builders and carpenters. Find out more

How to Know About Carpenters and Builders

A carpenter’s work may include interior jobs that require his or her joinery skills. These projects might include cabinetry, countertop surfaces, molding and trim. A carpenter can also use his or her talents to join wood inconspicuously or for appearance. For more information on this profession, check out the U.S. Department of Labor. You can find a list of unions by clicking here. For more information, contact a local union in your area.

The United Brotherhood of Carpenters is a union that represents construction workers in the U.S. and Canada. Several local unions are part of the organization, including the New York City District Council of Carpenters. The Council consists of eight local unions, which include four general carpentry and four specialty locals. A skilled worker can also become a general construction supervisor or a first-line supervisor. Depending on the type of position that you’re interested in, you could become a general or specialty carpenter.