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Carpentry

Carpenters build, assemble, install, finish, and repair wooden and metal structures and fixtures for both residential and commercial buildings. Carpenters can also work on massive concrete, steel, and wood constructions including bridges, dams, power plants, and civil engineering projects.

Work practices in carpentry have had some significant skills changes with innovations in technology such as advanced manufacturing practices, e.g., laser cutting, 3D printing and BIM (Building Information Modelling) that will result in future jobs requiring higher levels of digital literacy.

On-site assembly of prefabricated and modular components has required construction supervisors and workers to learn new skills. On-site installation skills in prefabricated and modular building, as well as updated workplace health and safety in new construction, are becoming increasingly important. The changes have been driven by Modern Methods of Construction from manufacturing now used in the construction industry, such as modular drop-ins, and smart work practices.

What does this Industry cover?

Green and smart buildings are in high demand, and the green and smart construction industry is growing. Green buildings frequently integrate smart features, and vice versa.

Workers will need to keep up with improvements in both sustainable construction techniques and the usage of smart technologies in order to keep their skills and knowledge current.

Even though it is a niche area, specialist skills for the restoration and maintenance of heritage buildings are in high demand by government and non-government organisations, as well as with the growing interest in heritage tourism.

Skills in steel construction, pre-cast and tilt-up concrete construction and assembly of prefabricated components of non-traditional building materials are also required.

Job hunting information

Nothing beats construction for earning while you learn on the job, working in a continuously changing environment, and with a variety of career options, including the possibility of one day having your own small business.

Carpenters might work outside erecting building framing or working indoors finishing interior fixtures, or maintaining existing structures and could often travel from job to job. You will work with power and hand tools as well as various equipment, and read blueprints and follow measurements. It can be dirty at times, and you may need to work at heights.

Businesses are generally small employers with 20 or less employees and are looking for those that have skills such as life skills including, budgeting, time management, organisation and planning. Adaptability, a good work ethic which includes attitude, reliability and the desire to work hard, plus work health and safety and resilience are also desirable.

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Information for further research

Peak level associations, government and major employers publish industry information. Accessing industry association sites, including member lists, is a good way of building up an understanding of an industry. Visiting employer websites and looking for careers or employment menus helps identify how employers recruit and the skills they are recruiting.

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