Carpentry Schools in Louisiana

The state of Louisiana is perfect for aspiring carpenters, not only because employment opportunities are abundant but also because several training programs and institutions offer both classroom and practical education. What’s more, many of these institutions provide job placement assistance that helps candidates secure employment as quickly and easily as possible.

The following guide discusses everything that an interested individual has to do to be well-placed to enjoy these opportunities. We discussed the basic educational requirements, training options, and certifications/licensing considerations.

Afterwards, we will provide a quick look at the top training destinations before closing on the salary potential and career outlook for carpenters in Louisiana.

How to Become a Carpenter in Louisiana

Carpenters in Louisiana typically start their careers following the pathway below.

High School Requirements

Prospective carpenters in Louisiana usually start a career in the field with a high school diploma. This is a typical requirement for securing admission into a training destination.

Naturally, those without a high school diploma can always use a GED equivalent result in its place.

Choosing a Training Destination

Aspiring carpenters don’t necessarily have to complete a college program. The two most common routes are technical programs and apprenticeship programs.

Technical Training

Training as a future carpenter takes place at a community college or trade school. It is a great way to build a solid foundation of theoretical principles before practicing with actual tools and equipment.

The training length of a carpentry program usually depends on the award in sight. Certificate programs last for a few weeks or a few months, while associate degree programs last for a couple of years.

Apprenticeship Training

Apprenticeship programs are the most common option for aspiring carpenters in Louisiana who would like to learn “on the job”. This way, they will be able to work with tools and equipment as early as possible, while learning from qualified instructors.

Of course, it is possible to combine apprenticeship training with academic programs. Some students attend academic programs first before participating in an apprenticeship, while others do the opposite.

Explore other trades with similar paths:

• How to become a chef in Louisiana

Licensure & Certification Requirements

In Louisiana, anyone who is properly trained can secure employment as a carpenter without having to receive a state license. Licensing only becomes paramount when it’s time to start taking on significant contracts and working in the full capacity of a contractor.

Carpenters need to be registered as home improvement contractors to work on projects valued between $7,500 and $75,000. Candidates need a commercial or residential contractor license to work on projects exceeding $50,000.

Registration is usually done with the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance is needed to complete this registration.

Top Carpentry Schools in Louisiana

All of the schools below offer excellent programs for aspiring carpenters in Louisiana.

Explore carpentry schools in Louisiana by city:

• Carpentry schools in New Orleans

Salary & Career Outlook

Houma, with an annual average salary of $70,223, and Metairie, with an annual average salary of $61,994, are the most prominent places to work as a carpenter in Louisiana, when it comes to yearly earnings. Also notable are Kenner, where carpenters manage an annual average salary of $60,731; and New Orleans, where the annual average salary for professionals in the field is $55,524.

Regarding the general figures sorted without focusing on any single factor, carpenters in Louisiana make an annual average salary of $39,838 in the bottom 10% category, $76,724 in the top 10% category, and $55,286 in the median-earning category.

Experience, specialty, and work environment also determine the salary of carpenters in a state.