Carpenters are responsible for constructing, installing, erecting, and repairing fixtures and structures made from wood and other materials. They know how to use different construction tools like small hand tools, saws, drills, and a wide variety of mechanized tools. These professionals cut and shape different materials and then use screws, nails, staples, or adhesives to join them. They may work in the building of bridges and highways, installing kitchen cabinets, among other duties.

Carpenters usually perform many of the following tasks:
• Building stairs.
• Installing cabinets.
• Using power tools.
• Joining materials.
• Shaping wood.

• Being physically fit.
• Having knowledge of building codes.
• Being able to perform measuring, sizing, and cutting tasks.
• Having strong mechanical aptitude.
• Being able to solve mathematical problems.
• Having manual dexterity.
• Being able to interpret drawings and diagrams.
• Having good sense of balance.
• Being able to use machinery.
• Having good eye-hand coordination.

Carpenter jobs are open to several academic qualifications and backgrounds related to this field. Students at High Schools who want to work in this area are encouraged to take classes in geometry, mechanical drawing, English, physics, algebra, general shop, and blueprint reading in order to obtain suitable skills and knowledge for future jobs. There are vocational and trade schools, and community colleges that offer training programs related to this field. Some employers offer apprenticeship schemes that combine classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Candidates for these programs must be 18 years old and meet specific requirements of the company.