Carpentry is a field that involves working with lumber to construct furniture, cabinets, buildings and other objects. A carpenter is someone who has learned the skills to construct these objects, either through on the job training or study. Most carpentry is performed outdoors, although certain crafted items can be constructed in a factory or workshop setting.

The skills necessary to become a carpenter are often learned on the job and require no formal training, except standards required by unions. In the United States it is fairly easy to find a job as a carpenter, although the recent decline in the housing industry has forced many in this field to close their businesses or downsize dramatically. Other countries have stricter standards for entering the field of carpentry. Germany requires the completion of a three year apprenticeship program to become a carpenter. They will earn the title of "journeyman" until they complete the long process to become a master carpenter, which involves more studying and a test.

Carpenters usually specialize in a particular area, such as cabinet making, installing doors, windows or stairs, and do the same work over and over again. Carpentry is a very physical job, requiring a lot of standing, lifting, kneeling and bending. The risk of injury from working with saws, nails and other tools is great, and on the job falls or slips are common. Carpenters need to have good skills with tools and the knowledge of basic safety measures. They should be physically fit and have a good aptitude in the area of math.

Specializing in a particular area can allow for higher pay; however it is wise to learn several areas of carpentry in case a particular area declines. The salary for carpenters varies widely, depending on the level of expertise in a particular area. A carpenter who is self-employed and crafts or installs his own work, such as cabinets, stair railings, or furniture, might earn much more than a carpenter who works as a framer for a large company. The salary for carpenters is also highly dependent upon the economy and weather.

Regardless of the current economic situation, the future for carpentry is in high demand because the turnover rate is so high. People are constantly entering and leaving the field, as the demand for particular carpentry fluctuates. Finding a niche of carpentry that will always be in high demand is the trick to maintaining a steady income in this field.