Carpentry

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Interested in construction? Learn how today’s carpenters design, frame, and finish projects using professional woodworking tools, power equipment, and industry techniques.

(6 Credits)

From framework to finish work, learn by doing. In Carpentry, students are given the opportunity to learn and become skilled in areas such as framing, roofing, cabinetry, and blueprint reading while using professional-grade tools in real-world construction settings. This program gives you a one-year jump-start on a path to a skilled trade in residential and commercial building.

Major Topics

Floor framing and construction
Roof framing and construction
Blueprint reading
Exterior and interior finishing
Hand and power tools
Wall and ceiling framing
Wood building materials, fasteners, and adhesives

Past Student: "The Carpentry program felt like a real job. We built sheds, framed walls, and used pro tools every day. (Mr.) Mersinger made sure we worked hard, like he did, and also took a little time to play along the way, too."

Is this your future?

Are You Ready?

To enjoy this program students should be able to.....

Safety & Physical Readiness

Be Here and Ready to Work – Attend consistently and stay focused; shop time cannot be made up at home.
Take Responsibility for Safety – Follow all safety rules without reminders and stay alert to your surroundings at all times.
Handle Tools & Equipment Safely – Use hand and power tools precisely, carefully, and responsibly.
Use Hand-Eye Coordination & Manual Dexterity – Manipulate tools and materials accurately to complete tasks successfully.
Show Physical Stamina – Stand, climb, lift, bend, and complete physically demanding tasks daily.
Adapt to Real Job Conditions – Tolerate noise, dust, odors, and varied temperatures while maintaining focus.

Work & Professional Skills

Demonstrate Dependability & Strong Work Ethic – Show up prepared, motivated, and accountable for your actions.
Follow Multi-Step Directions – Complete tasks in the correct order with attention to detail.
Work Independently & in Teams – Collaborate effectively with classmates while managing individual responsibilities.
Apply Math & Problem-Solving Skills – Measure accurately, think critically, and solve practical challenges.
Communicate & Act Professionally – Interact respectfully and responsibly with peers and instructors.
Persevere Through Challenges – Stay determined when tasks are repetitive, difficult, or physically demanding.
Exhibit Professional Behavior – Show pride, accountability, and respect in all aspects of your work.

Do you see your self in this career (vidoes)

Where this program can take you

Where This Program Can Take You

ENTRY LEVEL
Start a career right after high school with CCCTC experience:

TECHNICAL LEVEL
Build on CCCTC skills with a 2-year associate degree or trade school:

Residential Carpenter (Single-family, Townhome, Condo)
Commercial Carpenter (Office Buildings, Schools, Hospitals)
Industrial Carpenter (Scaffolding, Concrete Formwork, Civil Projects)
Construction and Building Inspectors

PROFESSIONAL LEVEL
Combine CCCTC and a 4-year degree to access high-level opportunities:

(Confused? Then try this CAREER SITE)

How CCCTC Gets You There

How this program prepares me

EARN VALUABLE CERTIFICATIONS

OUR program is certified
Certification shows that you have the skills and knowledge for your career field. This adds value to your high school experience by allowing students to have proof of their abilities that would take time and money AFTER they graduate.

CCCTC provides OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) training. Students can obtain their OSHA-10 Certification during their first semester at CCCTC.
The Carpentry program is certified by NCCER© (The National Center for Construction Education and Research) Students can earn their Academic Craft Core Skills Certification (through ABC Cumberland Valley Chapter).

CAREER ADVANTAGE

Start your career NOW
Work with industry grade technology that our local business partners use every day and become certified by OSHA. This shows employers you are trained in construction and have the skills the industry is looking for in residential carpentry. These skills allow the best students to come back as CCCTC interns or find an internship at a local business.

EARN COLLEGE CREDIT

Carpentry partners with these schools
Students can earn college credits in this program through our agreements with these colleges:

Penn College of Technology – TBD
The Community Colleges of Baltimore County – 6 credits

Contact the college or trade school you plan to attend and find out if you can earn credits or advanced standing at their institution!

COLLEGE ADVANTAGE

Get a jump start on college
Use college level texts to earn college credit while having the training, skills, and experience that most high school graduates do not get until they are well into their college major. This program gives you the opportunity to practice with industry grade equipment/scaffolding, read blueprints accurately, plan and manage projects, and experience residential carpentry before you go to college.

Equipment

CNC Routers – use computer-controlled equipment to create precise cuts and designs
Table Saws – make accurate cuts for framing and woodworking projects
Miter Saws – create precise angled cuts for trim and finish work
Portable Power Tools – use professional drills, impact drivers, sanders, and saws
Air Compressors & Pneumatic Tools – operate nail guns and other construction equipment
Laser Levels & Layout Tools – ensure accuracy during construction projects
Woodworking Equipment – shape, cut, and finish materials like professional builders
Framing Tools – construct walls, floors, and structural components
Scaffolding Systems – safely work at elevated heights on construction projects
Finish Carpentry Tools – create detailed trim, cabinetry, and interior finishes
Material Handling Equipment – safely move and prepare building materials

Brief Description

Carpentry

Carpentry provides instruction in techniques used in commercial and residential construction. The course will include all aspects of construction from vacant lot to the finished product. Emphasis is placed on the coordination between vendors and other trades people who supply services needed at site for a completed project. The course also includes estimating prices relating to consumers and trades people, interpreting blueprints, and applied math.

OSHA-10 certification will be offered.

Major Topics

Floor framing and construction
Roof framing and construction
Blueprint reading
Exterior and interior finishing
Hand and power tools
Wall and ceiling framing
Wood building materials, fasteners, and adhesives

Connection I will make

NCCER© (The National Center for Construction Education and Research)
Certification by this agency assures parents and students that the skills we teach are relevant and important in today's job market. A program's certifications must be renewed every three years through an onsite evaluation of the program.

Penn College of Technology and Baltimore Community College
Have an agreement with CCCTC based on the college's requirements for curriculum, faculties, and instructor that are reviewed and renewed periodically to guarantee that students are getting the equivalent instruction at CCCTC that would be expected in class at that institution. Credits are awarded based on that agreement.

PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COUNSEL
In accordance with federal and state regulations, each program is supported by a Professional Advisory Counsel composed of local business leaders and educational institutions. This group convenes periodically to review the program's curriculum and resources, ensuring alignment with current trends in technology and skills. Their guidance helps prepare students for the evolving career demands of the industry.

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