Master carpenter Ian Rodway, of Rodway Carpentry and Joinery, of Stratton Strawless.

Carpenter/joiner

Answers supplied by Ian Rodway, master carpenter from Rodway Carpentry and Joinery of Stratton Strawless, a small local carpentry company providing a comprehensive planning, design and construction service for all carpentry-related projects.

What does the job entail?
Carpentry work spans a wide variety of areas, at all stages of building, renovation, home improvement and garden structures. Typically, a trainee carpenter will spend the initial stages of their career as an apprentice, working alongside a qualified carpenter. This time will be spent both on and off site at a college or training centre. An apprentice will spend time working under the supervision of qualified carpenters and by a migration from general labouring duties to gradually taking on more responsibility, will gain a comprehensive knowledge of the trade and build up confidence.

What skills and qualifications are needed?
Modern Apprenticeships typically begin at around age 16 and last approximately four years. A basic sound education and four or more GCSE passes at grade C or above, including Maths, English and Science are a good indication of suitability. Once over 17, having a full driving licence is also valuable.

What type of person will fit in?
You need to have good common sense and a practical approach to problem-solving. A customer-oriented personality and being able to be organised, tidy and conscientious also serves you very well since a lot of the work will be carried out in people's homes. A “can-do” attitude and someone who is willing to learn is absolutely essential. Being able to work as part of a team is also very important — this applies to a team of other carpenters as well as other trades on site.

What are the pluses and minuses of the job?
The job can sometimes entail unsociable hours as well as unfavourable weather conditions. The pluses include the opportunity to meet a wide variety of people, work in many different environments and being able to apply your creativity to your work. Being a self-employed carpenter also gives you the flexibility to broaden your experience with different contractors.

What opportunities exist for career progression?
Career prospects are very good at the moment — there is a shortage of skilled carpenters and many homeowners are currently improving their own homes rather than moving. Opportunities exist in all aspects of the job and since carpentry is such an integral part of the entire construction process, it often forms the foundation to become an effective building project manager and general building contractor. Another avenue for carpenters is in the entertainment industry — working as a set carpenter in theatres, movie locations etc.

What can I expect to earn?
Qualified carpenters are very often employed on a self-employed basis. Earnings vary considerably depending on the projects. Carpenters can be paid hourly, daily or on a fixed price for specific work. Supplementary benefits such as pension, healthcare etc are usually only available when working on a salaried basis for a large established company.

Any hints on getting a job in this area?
The CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) is a good place to start. Their website (www.citb.co.uk) contains a wealth of information about apprenticeships and vacancies as well as links to other resources. Alternatively, the local careers office, job centre and local press will carry advertisements of vacancies. Larger building companies are also a good place to approach with a view to obtaining an apprenticeship.