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Apprenticeships & Training
Why Join the Carpenters Union
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Should I join the Carpenters Union?” you are not alone. Every year, thousands of skilled workers and people just starting out in the trades think about whether joining the union is the right move.
The Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS Carpenters) represents members across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware, the District of Columbia, and Maryland. For many, joining the union means higher pay, better benefits, training, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing someone has your back on the job.
So why do people join the Carpenters Union?
Higher Wages and Strong
One of the biggest reasons people join the Carpenters Union is financial security. Union carpenters earn more than their non-union counterparts, and those wages are locked into legally binding contracts. Healthcare and pensions are included as well. Unlike non-union work, these benefits follow you from job to job, which means you can support yourself and your family without worrying about losing everything when a project ends.
Training Without the Debt
The Carpenters Union is known for its apprenticeship and training programs. If you are just starting out, you can apply for a registered apprenticeship where you earn while you learn. That means you earn a paycheck while gaining the skills you need, and you graduate debt-free with credentials that employers recognize across the construction industry. For a journeyperson, the union provides upgrade training so you can keep up with new technology.
More Opportunities for Steady Work
Finding reliable work can be difficult if you are on your own. Union carpenters have access to a referral system called MIX 20/20, which connects members to contractors and projects throughout the region. Instead of relying only on word of mouth, you become part of a network that gives you access to steady opportunities on commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects.
Protection on the Job
Being a union carpenter means you don’t stand alone. The EAS Carpenters advocate for members every day by enforcing fair pay, stopping wage theft, addressing worker misclassification, and making sure jobsites meet safety standards. You can focus on doing your best work knowing you have an organization standing behind you.
A Career with Growth
Being a union carpenter means you don’t stand alone. The EAS Carpenters advocate for members every day by enforcing fair pay, stopping wage theft, addressing worker misclassification, and making sure jobsites meet safety standards. You can focus on doing your best work knowing you have an organization standing behind you.
How to Join
If you have less than seven years of experience, the apprenticeship program is usually the best path. If you have seven or more years of experience, you can apply for a skills evaluation to see if you qualify as a journeyperson. Depending on your background, you may enter directly as a journeyperson or be asked to complete some upgrade training.
Ready to take the next step?
Click here to apply to a local training center near you!
Click here to read about a step-by-step guide, from application to graduation