Carpentry is a class that explores the aspects of building from the introduction to basic aspects of construction to the more complex use of construction knowledge to create complex projects. Students must be 16 years of age in order to enter this program of study. Carpentry students are first introduced to the various aspects of safety that surround the use of basic hand tools, power tools, and stationary shop tools. The students are also required to take an OSHA 10 safety course that requires approximately two weeks to complete. In today’s workplace, credentialing is a must. The OSHA 10 Card is issued to each student who successfully completes the course. This card is a lifetime card and never expires. The Carpentry program is a two year program consisting of Carpentry 1 and Carpentry 2.

Shop projects range from learning how to safely use hand and power tools to applying acquired knowledge to the construction of complex projects. The aspects range from just learning how to cut materials to assembling materials into construction components. Projects include the construction of items as simple as the marking and cutting out of simple puzzle pieces, the construction of storage buildings, the construction of hunting blinds, the construction of dog houses, the construction of dog boxes used in vehicles, the construction of projects for small children, the construction of various forms of outdoor items, the construction of picnic tables, and any others projects that will fit into the shop space. The students also repair various items that are brought to them by members of the surrounding communities.

The students are taught to think for themselves and to realize that there are many different paths that lead to the same result, the completion of a successful project. The students are encouraged to ask questions and to express their opinions regarding the construction of these projects.

Attendance, conduct, and participation are very important factors in determining grades. Class work consists of reading materials, handouts, use of the SMARTBoard and related materials, and the hands on application of newly acquired knowledge. Oral and written testing, along with the completion of assigned shop projects are key components in determining the level of the student’s progress.

The main goal of the Carpentry program is to instill in the students skills that will help them be better suited for the workplace. The Carpentry program is not a static program, it involves day to day application of knowledge to the various projects at hand.

Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to apply the knowledge they have acquired to whatever workplace environment that they encounter. They will be able to understand the safety aspects that are part of the workplace environment and they will be able to become an important and functional part of the industry.