The skilled members of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters touch every aspect of a construction project. They’re frequently the first on the job when they set up the construction trailers, and they’re often the last to leave after installing the locks and handing the keys to the owners.
In between, they help build the road to the new building. They install and maintain the equipment that powers it. They put up the walls and ceilings and put down the flooring.
The union represents one trade with many crafts. Our members have vastly different skill sets, but they share the pride and commitment to excellence that comes with being part of the Brotherhood.
The Carpenters Union offers apprenticeships in a variety of craft skills. They are:
Cabinetmakers and millworkers make wood products–including moldings, panels, and furniture–and fixtures of metal, plastic, and glass. Experts at operating many machines and using many tools, they also create the details and craftsmanship found in woodwork, cabinetry, and décor.Carpenters measure, saw, level, and nail wood and other building materials. They install tile and insulation, acoustical ceilings, cabinets, siding, and much more. Members of one of the oldest and most respected trades in the world, they build most of the homes, schools, churches, and hotels in your community.Floor coverers install a wide variety of flooring materials, including carpet, tile, wood, and laminates. They’re experts at estimating materials and understanding pattern layout and know the safe and proper use of many tools, adhesives, and fastening systems.
Framers and residential carpenters assemble and erect the framework of homes. All-around carpenters with experience in many aspects of residential construction, they build the partitions, install the flooring, and do a lot of the finish work.
Interior systems carpenters install acoustical ceilings, metal framing, wall partitions, office furniture systems, and other materials, equipment, and factory-produced systems. Saws, hammers, drills, wrenches, and screwdrivers are the tools of this specialized trade. They also have welding skills for assembly work.
Lathers use wire, screws, nails, clips, and staples to fasten metal studs, metal lath (strips that form latticework), and drywall. The framework built by lathers is covered by plaster, drywall materials, and other finished surfaces.
Millwrights install, maintain, diagnose, and repair the machines that keep America running. These machines include compressors, pumps, conveyors, gas and steam turbines, and mining equipment.
Pile drivers install piling to hold back the earth during excavations, to set up the foundation of skyscrapers and bridges, and to build docks and wharfs. Due to the wide range of work in this hearty trade, many pile drivers are certified welders and capable of working with a variety of sizes and shapes of steel.