Carpentry Schools in Arkansas

One of the primary considerations for an aspiring carpenter in Arkansas when making a career decision is where to receive training. It is usually imperative to choose a destination that offers both foundational theoretical education and comprehensive hands-on education.

Thankfully, several such destinations in the state offer the best possible training experience. Of course, training is not the only requirement that candidates must focus on, as there are other qualifying factors without which candidates cannot practice professionally as carpenters in the state.

We explain all these considerations below and provide additional helpful resources, including a list of top training programs and an overview of potential annual average salary projections.

How to Become a Carpenter in Arkansas

Aspiring carpenters in Arkansas may start their careers properly by following the steps below.

Basic Requirements

Basic mathematics and calculation skills are very valuable for a prospective carpenter. Many training programs and apprenticeship destinations also require candidates to hold a high school diploma or GED.

Education

For education, aspiring carpenters can attend technical school, complete an apprenticeship program, or combine both options.

Technical School

Community colleges, vocational institutions, and trade schools in Arkansas are ideal destinations for aspiring carpenters to receive a combination of classroom and practical training. Candidates should be prepared to spend between 6 months and 2 years in training, depending on whether they wish to graduate with a certificate or an associate degree.

Apprenticeship Program

Apprenticeship carpentry programs are known to be very comprehensive, seeing as organizations and unions of experts usually offer them. Candidates can also expect to receive classroom and practical education. Still, the emphasis is usually geared toward making sure that students are able to practice their duties in a real work environment.

Building a Career

After receiving the right level of training, individuals in Arkansas can start building a successful career. The common approach is to work for a while as an apprentice or in an entry-level role, develop real-world confidence, network with fellow professionals, and choose a specialty area.

Candidates can also consider certification and licensing to demonstrate their ability to take on significant contracts. We explore these requirements below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an aircraft mechanic in Arkansas

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Carpenters in Arkansas can start working under a licensed professional as long as they have the right level of training. However, if they are going to take on significant contracts of their own, they need to receive a license from the state.

The Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board is responsible for issuing commercial licenses to individuals in the state. Carpenters must pass a trade examination and provide proof of experience to become licensed.

A contractor’s bond will also be required.

Certification and union membership are not compulsory for a carpenter in Arkansas but can be very beneficial. They offer networking opportunities, credibility, and chances for continuing education.

Top Carpentry Schools in Arkansas

All of the entries below are notable for comprehensive carpentry education for residents of Arkansas.

Explore carpentry schools in Arkansas by city:

• Carpentry schools in Little Rock

Salary & Career Outlook

The main annual average salary for a carpenter in Arkansas can range from $36,768 to $80,772. Candidates on the lower end are those who are just starting out in their careers and thus are among the bottom 10%, while those on the upper end are among the top 10% because they have worked on relevant factors that influence salary ranges.

It is also common for carpenters in the state to be closer to the median, earning an annual average salary of $54,496. These relevant factors that candidates can work on to improve their yearly returns include work experience, work environment, professional credentials, business strategy, and more.

Location is also very important.

Fayetteville, Bentonville, and North Little Rock are the cities with the highest pay for carpenters in Arkansas, with annual average return figures of $74,245, $61,960, and $58,998, respectively.