As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week November 17-23, 2024, the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS Carpenters Union) emphasizes the crucial role of apprenticeships in developing skilled carpenters. These programs offer a unique hands-on experience coupled with practical learning, serving as a bridge between education and a lifelong career. They significantly contribute to the local economy by creating skilled labor, reducing unemployment, and enhancing local industry.

Unlike traditional education, apprenticeships integrate hands-on training with practical learning, producing well-rounded and job-ready journeymen. This approach minimizes the need for extensive on-site training while enhancing overall job efficiency and safety. After four years, apprentices emerge with invaluable skills and a trade, free from debt, earning family-sustaining wages and benefits.

Through pre-apprenticeship programs like Carpenters Apprenticeship Ready Program (CARP), which prepares graduates for their four-year on-the-job training, the union remains deeply committed to supporting the next generation of carpenters. In honor of National Apprenticeship Week, we are shining a spotlight on a few of our apprentices and their inspiring journeys.

“I wanted to be a part of the CARP program because I wanted a career and something to be proud of every single day,” said Amir Scales, a First-Year Apprentice with Local 158 at the EAS Carpenters Union. “I gained familiarity with the industry I chose before jumping in headfirst. The main thing I love about being a union carpenter is that the buildings we work on, whether they are schools, hospitals, libraries, or furniture, are meaningful. Everything we do helps someone in some way, and I really appreciate that.”

Beyond preparing the next generation of skilled carpenters, the EAS Carpenters Union is also working to increase workforce diversity.

“It’s important for women to be in the trade because we can do anything that a man can do,” said Jennifer Dickson, a First-Year Apprentice with Local 158 at the EAS Carpenters Union and a second-generation union carpenter. “I look forward to representing women in the trade and knowing that I have the skills and capability to do everything my classmates are doing.” 

Reflecting on what drew her to the profession, Jennifer shares: “Long term, the most significant aspect of this career is the pension and the dependability. One day, retiring and knowing that I can take care of my family and myself is the biggest takeaway for me.”

Ryan Grandy, a First-Year Apprentice with Local 167 at the EAS Carpenters Union, joined the union seeking a more promising career path and secure future, “With what they offer here at the school and on-the-job training, it’s invaluable. As long as you’re there and you have a good work ethic, someone’s going to take you aside and show you how to do something right.” 

Hakeem Copeland, First-Year Apprentice, Local 158 at the EAS Carpenters Union, reflects on his aspirations as he embarks on his journey in the carpentry field, “Being an apprentice, I’m hoping to strengthen my career, be the best that I can be at what I do and build good relationships with people I might need in the future, or who may need me one day.”

In celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, the EAS Carpenters Union reaffirms its commitment to cultivating skilled carpenters and fostering a diverse workforce with fair pay, safe working conditions, and a secure retirement with dignity. Through dedicated training programs and inspiring individual stories, the union continues to pave the way for future generations, ensuring that the craft of carpentry remains a vital and thriving part of its communities.

To learn more about the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical Centers, please visit: https://www.eascarpenterstech.edu/