Carpentry Schools in Vermont

Vermont offers a promising landscape for those who are passionate about woodworking and ready to turn that passion into a career. From its small towns to its vibrant craft-based economy, the Green Mountain State has a strong appreciation for skilled trades like carpentry.

This guide has been created specifically for aspiring carpenters in Vermont. It offers a full breakdown of the steps necessary to get started in the profession.

We begin by discussing the foundational aspects of training—what prerequisites are helpful, how to choose the right educational path, and what students can expect from Vermont’s vocational and technical schools. Whether you’re interested in formal apprenticeships or trade school programs, there are excellent training options available across the state.

How to Become a Carpenter in Vermont

Carpenters in Vermont usually launch their careers by following the pathway outlined below.

Foundational Skills & Basic Requirements

As an aspiring carpenter in Vermont, it would be a mistake to overlook the importance of soft skills. Communication, time management, and even basic business knowledge can go a long way, particularly for those planning to become independent contractors or small business owners.

Educational Options

Prospective carpenters need to develop a solid foundational understanding of the profession and refine their practical skills. There is no rigid approach to this, but the pathways below are the most popular.

• Apprenticeship—Completing a carpentry apprenticeship is a very effective way to launch a career in the discipline without having to worry about tuition fees. Not only do most apprenticeships allow candidates to study free of charge, but some even provide opportunities for students to earn during training.

Unions and professional organizations commonly organize apprenticeship programs for carpenters. Candidates may expect to spend between 4 and 7 years in an apprenticeship program.

• Academic—Academic training destinations are also common for prospective candidates looking to enter the carpentry profession. They offer a wonderful curriculum recognized by the NCCER, as well as career services and a certificate/associate degree.

These programs provide core instruction in topics like framing, blueprint reading, construction math, and safety protocols.

Employment, Specialty & Career Opportunities

Well-trained candidates in Vermont can secure employment as carpenters, working under contractors or taking on their own contracts. To enjoy career opportunities and take on large contracts, candidates usually have to consider licensing and certification, as we discuss below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a home and building inspector in Vermont

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Vermont is one of the several states across the country where the field of carpentry is not regulated at the state level. This means that professionals don’t have to worry about registering with any state body to start a professional career.

Even carpenters who work as general contractors and take on significant contracts don’t have to pursue a license. Of course, local jurisdictions and municipalities may have their specific requirements, so it is always important to check and confirm with the local authorities before starting any significant project.

Top Carpentry Schools in Vermont

All of the schools below offer comprehensive carpentry programs for candidates in Vermont.

Explore carpentry schools in Vermont by city:

• Carpentry schools in Burlington

Salary & Career Outlook

Currently, the highest-paying cities to work as carpenters in Vermont are White River Junction, with an annual average salary of $83,489; Stowe, with an annual average salary of $81,725; and Williston, with an annual average salary of $79,518.

Waitsfield professionals are also among the most prominent in the city, thanks to an annual average salary of $79,143.

Other than location, a professional’s experience level, specialty area, and employer will also influence their workload at the end of the year. Among the highest earners are those who make an annual average salary of $95,284, placing them in the top 10% category.

Candidates in Utah’s bottom 10% of carpenters make an annual average salary of $54,444, while those in the median category end the year with a salary of around $72,025.