How to Become a Carpenter in Illinois

Dexterous, creative, and ambitious people can always find a veritable career path in carpentry. It allows them to put their dexterity to use while creating truly wonderful pieces. And, of course, the average yearly salary is as impressive as expected.

So how exactly can you go about becoming a carpenter in the state of Illinois? What are the steps involved, and are there specific requirements? Well, these are some of the questions we provide detailed answers to in the sections below.

We also clear up any confusion regarding possible certification and licensing options. And, of course, we reveal what the annual average salary is in general and how much you can expect to earn based on a handful of unique factors.

How to Become a Carpenter in Illinois

Becoming a carpenter in Illinois involves pretty much the same steps it does in most states. The first thing you have to do is choose a specific approach, and in this case, you have three different options.

The first option is to apply for an apprenticeship opportunity trade unions offer. The second option is to work as a carpenter assistant for a few years before becoming one yourself. And the last approach is to apply for an official training program at a college or trade school.

Of course, it is also possible to combine two of these approaches. For example, an aspiring carpenter may first complete an apprenticeship program and consolidate their knowledge by also applying for a course at a local college or vocational school in Illinois.

Top Carpentry Schools in Illinois

There is plenty of top carpentry schools in Illinois. Below are some of the most prominent ones to consider.

1. Southwestern Illinois College

2500 Carlyle Avenue Belleville, Illinois 62221,

4950 Maryville Road, Granite City, Illinois 62040,

180 N Wabash Chicago, Illinois 60601

It is hard to find a list of the best programs for carpenters in Illinois that doesn’t include Southwestern Illinois College. The school is known not just for its carpentry program but for having an array of high-quality trade programs.

For increased flexibility, the school has a few campuses all over the states, including in Belleville, Granite City, and Chicago, among others.

2. Prairie State College

4821, Southwick Dr, Matteson, Illinois 60443

202 Halsted Street, Chicago Heights, Illinois, 60411

Prairie State College offers a brilliant Carpentry program geared towards producing technically sound carpenters with a knack for problem-solving and creative thinking.

High-quality instructors teach students crucial topics such as wood turning, carving, and finishing. Additionally, the school ensures to purposefully maintain a small class size to keep the instructor-to-student ratio as optimal as possible.

5. Triton College

2000 Fifth Ave, River Grove, IL 60171

Even though it’s the last entry on our list, Triton College is by no means the least option to consider when choosing a carpentry program in Illinois. The school remains one of the most popular destinations for young minds in the state, with more than 8,000 students.

As for the carpentry program, students can only pursue a basic certificate in a truly comprehensive and fast-tracked environment. Because they can learn so much in such a short period, the school continues to produce many successful carpenters every year.

Explore Carpentry Schools by City:

Carpentry Schools in Chicago

Licensure and Certification Requirements

Carpenters in Illinois do not need certification or a license before starting working and taking on projects. But of course, carpenters in the state still need to get certified. They do.

They do so, not because they are mandated to, but simply because becoming certified gives them an edge and helps them document and market their skills to prospective employers better.

Regarding specific certification bodies, there are, of course, a few options to consider. Among these are:

National Association of the Remodeling Industry - offering credentials as Certified Lead Carpenter.
US Green Building Council’s Green Building and Sustainable Technology certification
National Wood Flooring Association - offering credentials as Certified Installer and Sand & Finisher
National Association of Homebuilders - offering Certified Graduate Associate credentials

Salary and Job Outlook

Carpenters in Illinois earn a mean annual salary of $63,877. This figure is about 6% higher than the national average for other states. Of course, your actual salary as a carpenter in Illinois may end up being higher or lower than this figure, depending on a handful of factors, including experience, establishment, and location.

Those who fall into the lower spectrum of earners usually take home around $42,306 annually, while those in the top ten percent earn as high as $96,477.

Highest paying cities include Schaumburg, with an average annual salary of $72,039, Palatine, with $71,737, Downers Grove, with $70,170, Elgin, with $69,323; and Chicago, with $69,008.

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