- 1). Pursue an apprenticeship. Most employers recommend an apprenticeship as the best way to learn carpentry. Apprenticeship programs, administered by joint union-management committees, combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
The Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters represents over 23,000 carpenters in Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon. It offers an apprenticeship program as well as free training to members to upgrade skills. Contact the closest training center (see Resources) to apply to become an apprentice and to find out the requirements to be accepted.
Once the apprenticeship is completed, which can take several years, the apprentice becomes a member of the union. Because the number of apprenticeship programs is limited, only a small number of carpenters can learn their trade through these programs and then become union members. - 2). Contact a local union council to find out how to become a member. The United Brotherhood of Carpenters has associated councils in the Northwest that cover Oregon, including the Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers (503-228-7486) and the Carpenters Industrial Council (503-228-0235), both in Portland, and the Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters in Kent, Washington (253-945-8800).
- 3). Apply to work for a company that is represented by a carpenters union. By becoming an employee of a company where a union is already in place, union membership is a requirement of employment. Membership is automatic upon hiring.
- 4). Organize the workers at the company where you're employed. If others on the work crew agree, the union holds a vote on the issue of union representation. Contact the local council for information on how this procedure is handled and the legalities involved. Usually the organizer must have carpentry experience.
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