A career in carpentry is something that also takes work and planning. Success in such a field depends on the core competencies developed during one's training period. This is aside from the skills that are required to become a competent carpenter.

Entry Level Competencies

For would be carpenters, there is a need to develop entry level competencies in order to become a well-rounded carpenter. Primary knowledge and competence involves learning to perform basic helper duties.

Entry level carpenters should first learn about use and care of basic materials. Basic interpretation of drawings and blueprints is also learned along with safety considerations on the work site as well as in the use of tools.

With entry level training, the person should be able to learn to follow schedules as well as basic carpentry instructions. Entry level knowledge would include learning the basic carpentry techniques as well as identifying the basic drawing symbols used in drafting blueprints and building plans.

Entry level training for carpentry also includes obtaining basic but essential knowledge concerning building materials. Knowledge of advanced math may also be necessary.

Developmental Competencies

After accomplishing and becoming proficient with entry level carpentry training basics, would be carpenters may then need to equip themselves with additional skills development. At this point, a carpenter would now be looking into learning the skills required to perform standard construction tasks as well as handling repair jobs.

Carpenters in training for developmental competencies would eventually be learning more about working with the use of sketches and blueprints. Carpenters would also be more adept in trying to interpret and follow work orders, especially the required tasks. Other valuable knowledge to be learned at this level include setting up and operating standard tools and equipment. Learning how to work independently while performing standard construction and repair tasks would already be practiced at this level of competency.

Performance Level Competency

From the basic and standard construction tasks and knowledge, performance level competency would proceed on teaching the carpenter about more complex carpentry knowledge. some of the things learned at this level include interpreting and performing more complex building layouts, blueprints and drawings. the advanced carpenter should learn how to follow tasks to exact specifications on what is being shown on paper or layout.

During this time, carpenters with performance level competency now would know not only how to implement working schedules but also in developing them for a certain project. Carpenters at this level would now be learning to become even more adept in selecting and using appropriate materials for certain building projects. Enhanced knowledge of advanced shop mathematics becomes valuable is considered very important since carpenters would now be learning how to work with precision instruments and equipment.