We Build Professional Carpenters

Who are we?

Training is what gives the carpenters and our signatory contractors their strong competitive advantage.  The Carpenters International Training Fund (CITF) is the driving force that makes our world-renowned training system possible.

The CITF and its affiliated training programs invest more than $200 million a year to develop and deliver training for UBC members. Through a network of more than 200 training centers across North America and 2,500 full-time instructors, UBC members can learn today’s in-demand skills at little or no out-of-pocket expense.

Our curriculum is developed at the International Training Center in Las Vegas with input from contractors; industry experts; and product and equipment manufacturers. It provides apprentices and journeymen with the skills to be the safest and most productive workers on the job site.

Through UBC skills training, members are able to hone their craft and enhance their knowledge—creating new opportunities for them and making their employers more competitive.

What is a Carpenter?

Carpenters are vital to almost every facet of the construction industry. They must have expertise in a wide variety of skills needed in commercial construction, residential building, and structural maintenance.  On residential sites, carpenters crib basements, build house frameworks, walls, roofs and exterior finishes, and install doors, windows, flooring, cabinets, stairs, handrails, paneling, molding and ceiling tiles. At commercial, industrial, and heavy highway construction locations, carpenters build concrete forms, scaffolding, bridges, trestles, tunnels, shelters, towers and other structures. Those who work in maintenance may repair and remodel existing structures of all kinds.

Carpentry is an obvious choice for those who are good at working with their hands and using hand and power tools. However, modern carpentry demands both manual skills and the ability to read drawings, sketches and plans for building information. Carpenters need to work accurately, be able to estimate the cost of jobs, and determine and order the materials needed for the job. Effective communication skills are also essential since carpenters work with other crafts, engineers, customers, and other related individuals on a daily basis. 

How can I Prepare?

To prepare for entry into the carpenter apprenticeship program, applicants should take as many courses as possible in the following areas of study:  general mathematics (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division), algebra, geometry, drafting, building and construction, English composition, communication skills, and the ability to read and comprehend construction drawings.