How to Become a Carpenter in Chicago
The key to becoming a successful carpenter in Chicago, Illinois, is to ensure that you obtain the right training before you begin to work as one. There are many routes to obtaining this training, each with its advantages.
Some often apply to a trade union to become apprentices, while some choose to work as a helper or carpenter assistant beforehand. Another particularly popular option is to enroll in a formal training program offered by colleges and trade schools.
All of these are veritable options to consider, but in the article below, we’ll focus on the best carpenter schools in and around Chicago, Illinois.
Top Carpentry Schools in Chicago, Illinois
The best carpentry schools in Chicago provide their students with a solid, comprehensive theory as a foundation for the hands-on practices that usually follow. They also boast world-class facilities and instructors.
Below is a list of notable Chicago carpentry schools that fulfill all of these requirements and more.
Southwestern Illinois College
Belleville, IL Online + Campus
Southwestern Illinois College is one of the most sought-after institutions for students pursuing technical degrees in the state, and the same applies to carpentry. To make things more convenient for its students, the school has several campuses in Belleville, Granite City, and Chicago, among others.
Tuition
$3,660 - $6,390Contact
2500 Carlyle Avenue Belleville, Illinois 62221
(618) 235-2700
admissions@swic.edu
Prairie State College
Chicago Heights, IL Online + Campus
Prairie State College is another college in the area with a wonderful carpentry program and years of experience producing brilliant carpenters. Students here become experts in wood-turning, carving, finishing, and more.
Tuition
$4,176 - $11,064Contact
4821, Southwick Dr, Matteson, Illinois, 60443
(708) 709-3500
fsimpkins@prairiestate.edu
Chicago & Northeast Illinois District of Carpenters Apprentice & Training Program
Chicago, IL Online + Campus
Like most apprentice training programs in the state, the Chicago & Northeast Illinois District of Carpenters Apprentice & Training Program produces technically sound carpenters who are confident enough to take on projects independently.
Tuition
FreeContact
1256 Estes Avenue, Elk Grove Village, Illinois 60007
(847) 640-7373
info@mactc.org
Project HOOD Communities Development Corporation
Chicago, IL Online + Campus
An impressive program that seeks to help facilitate a creative outlet for individuals all around Chicago through a career in carpentry, Project HOOD Communities
Tuition
Call For DetailsContact
6330 South King Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60637
(773) 326-4216
info@projecthood.org
Triton College
Chicago, IL Online + Campus
Triton College in River Gore is a popular destination for young undergrads in Illinois, with more than 8,000 students. The school's carpentry program remains one of the best in the state, even though students can only pursue a basic certificate.
Tuition
$4,920 - $14,430Contact
2000 Fifth Ave, River Grove, IL 60171
(708) 456-0300
helpdesk@triton.edu
Other Notable Programs
Other notable options for students pursuing a carpentry degree in and around Chicago include:
- The apprentice program from Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. of Illinois, located in Elk Grove Village,
- The certificate program at Kaskaskia College in Centralia,
- Apprenticeship program offered by the Carpenters Union Local 272 Chapter at Chicago Heights and the
- The undergraduate certificate program at Black Hawk College in Galva.
Explore detailed steps and certification requirements:
Explore Nearby States for Education and Training: