aming. In contrast, a large general contractor may provide training in several carpentry skills. Although specialization is becoming increasingly common, it is important to try to acquire skills in all aspects of carpentry and to have the flexibility to perform any kind of work. A high school education is desirable, including courses in carpentry, shop, mechanical drawing, and general mathematics. Manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination, physical fitness, and a good sense of balance are important. The ability to solve arithmetic problems quickly and accurately is also helpful. Employers and apprenticeship committees generally view favorably any training and work experience obtained in the Armed Services or Job Corps. Carpenters may advance to carpentry supervisors or general construction supervisors. Carpenters usually have greater opportunities than most other construction workers to become general construction supervisors, because carpenters are exposed to the entire construction process. Some carpenters become independent contractors. To advance, these workers should be able to estimate the nature and quantity of materials needed to properly complete a job. In addition, they must be able to estimate, with accuracy, how long a job should take to complete and its cost. New carpenters learn many things on the job, including basic design, common job skills, use of tools and machines, safety, and first aid. They practice drawing and apply math on the job too. The future Finding a job as a carpenter should be easy. From 1998-2008, thousands of jobs will become available each year because the occupation is so large. However, there is still the chance of losing a job. This happens because many construction jobs do not last a long time and bad weather may halt other jobs. Carpenter jobs also depend on the part of the country they live. Construction jobs go where people and businesses move and where the local business is ...
