Any carpenters with career advice?

I have been working at a rock quarry for 7 years now and they are cutting back my hours so they don't have to pay overtime. I have always wanted to be a carpenter and I thought this might be my oppertunity to try it out. I called a contractor today and he seemed interested and said he could probably put me to work on the weekends to see how I did and if I liked it. I have helped family build a few houses and have built decks, and other odd job before, but have never done this as a profession. I really want this to work out so I wanted to ask if there was any tips or tricks that I should do to help me out. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

 

Anybody?

 

I don't know how the building industry is around your area but it is horrible pretty much everywhere. I know alot of carpenters looking for work. The pay isn't that great either if you're a grunt. But if you can find someone to latch onto and you do a good job you can become valuable. Most helpers around here are pretty flaky and I always hear of framers looking for helpers.

 

Construction jobs are at their LOWS right now. I know many that are struggling.
Some have lost their businesses.
If you have a decent job-keep it. Do the construction thing on your off days--see if you like it.
A retired guy I know does small home repairs--he stays very busy.
It depends WHERE you are located and what type of work you are doing.

 

You won't get rich . Having said that , I love my profession .

Learning from people that know what they are doing is key .

 

Yeah I know that building is slow, but this is what I have always wanted to do. The guy that i'm talking to is a multi-millionaire ( he sells oil to the government) and builds big houses for doctors and lawyers and such. I'm not getting rich doing what i'm doing now either, I only make around $30K a year. The guy said he didn't have a problem paying what I already make and even more if it works out. My wife makes good money being an RN, which means that as long as I make what i'm making now i'll be good. I'll be sure to watch the guys who have done it for a long time. What all tools is a must? I already have all my power tools and all the basics.

 

I am a construction manager for a home builder and there are no "quality" positions like mine out there. However there is a big need for skilled labor as there just are not enough people out there who are reliable. I say if your a hard worker and have a good attitude and are reliable you won't have a problem finding work. Like others have said you won't get rich to start but you will be in a good position when/if things turn around. Also try the commercial industry as there is always work there.
I absolutley love what I do...sure you will too.

 

Thanks man. I hope that one day I can open up my own business. I have also thought about home inspector, appraiser, and real estate license. I am only 30 and want to have a career instead of a job like I have now. I have worked for my current employer for 7 years and haven't got a raise in 4. I think it's cause i'm so easy going that they know that I won't say anything to them about it. I'm excited yet nervous at the same time.

 

Tools depends on your tasks , ie : do you do foundations , framing , siding , finishing , a bit of all ?

I would say a basic kit includes all your own hand tools , a framing square , 4' level , circular saw , drill and a couple power cords .

Reliable transportation to work , a phone where you can be reached and being a bit early and willing to stay a couple extra minutes each day goes a long way .

I always tell my new guys to take pride in whatever task they are asked to do , and do whatever you are working on to the best of your abilities , the new guys seldom get the really fun stuff right off the bat , but the best of the new guys is always first in line when the opportunity arises .

You and your boss can work it out beyond that .

 

I have all the tools you mentioned and for sure have the reliable transportation. It really sounds like you know your stuff and I will remember all your advice. Hopefully one day I can be giving the advice you have rather than receiving it! Thanks!

 

I've been a carpenter for 22 years , and have had my own company going on 12 years now . Feel free to pm me if you ever have any questions , I'm glad to try to help .

 

Construction and home building is great and all but if I were you, I would look into plumbing, electrical or a trade that involves a licensed individual. It may be a pain in the ass to complete all the schooling etc. but it becomes well worth it once your can officially say your a "licensed plumber, electrician etc." Also licensed professionals can easily charge more money just bc they are licensed. I've been plumbing mansions and estates for the wealthy "1%" for ten years now, and I can say I couldn't be happier. Just some food for thought.

 

Will do, thanks!

 

That may be something I look into. I don't care what it takes, I want to do this for a living and be successful at it. Thanks for the advice!

 

Worthy advice .

Here in BC , you have to be a Licenced Residential Contractor in order to construct new homes .

 

Hey OZ, being how you are in canada do you watch alot of Holmes on Homes? That is the best show ever IMO. I watch every episode even re-runs.

 

Yep , Holmes on Homes , Holmes Inspection , Disaster DIY , and Leave it to Bryan

Lol

 

He is my hero, I would give anything to be able to work for him. Never seen Leave it to Bryan, i'll have to try to find that one.

 

He is on HGTV Canada , not sure if it is on in the US

 

Oh, probably not.