Carpentry

Program Overview

The Carpentry program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge for careers in carpentry. The program offers two pathways: Foundation Training for entry-level positions and Apprenticeship Training for registered apprentices. Graduates are prepared for the Carpentry Level 1 exam and potential apprenticeship opportunities, leading to careers in residential, commercial, and industrial construction sectors.

Program Outline

Carpentry Program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU):

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Carpentry program at KPU provides students with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers as carpenters in residential, commercial, and industrial construction sectors. The curriculum focuses on hands-on learning through practical projects and theoretical instruction.

Objectives:

• Develop practical skills in carpentry using hand and power tools.
• Understand building codes and safety regulations relevant to carpentry.
• Gain knowledge of various construction materials and their applications.
• Learn to read and interpret construction drawings and plans.
• Develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking in a construction context.
• Prepare students for the Carpentry Level 1 exam and potential apprenticeship opportunities.

Program Description:

The Carpentry program at KPU offers two pathways:

Foundation Training (Full-time, 24 weeks, Cloverdale Campus):

• Prepares students for entry-level positions in the construction industry.
• Covers topics such as safety, building codes, hand and power tools, and basic carpentry techniques.
• Provides opportunities to work on practical projects in both indoor and outdoor settings.
• Upon successful completion, students can write the Carpentry Level 1 exam and are eligible for SkilledTradesBC credit in Carpentry Level 1 apprenticeship and 450 work-based hours.

Apprenticeship Training (Full-time, 6-7 weeks, Cloverdale Campus, Levels 1, 2, 3 & 4):

• Designed for individuals who are registered carpentry apprentices.
• Provides theoretical and practical instruction corresponding to each level of the apprenticeship program.
• Level 1 and 3 are seven weeks in duration, while Level 2 and 4 are six weeks each.
• Upon successful completion of each level, apprentices are eligible for SkilledTradesBC certification and advancement to the next level of their apprenticeship.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Carpenter
• Construction worker
• Construction supervisor
• Project manager
• Estimator
• Building inspector
• Self-employed contractor

Career Opportunities:

• Residential construction
• Commercial construction
• Industrial construction
• Renovation and restoration
• Custom home building
• Cabinet making
• Furniture making

Other:

• The Carpentry program is offered twice a year at the Cloverdale campus.
• KPU also offers a Youth TRAIN in Trades program in partnership with local school districts, providing 21-week Foundation level carpentry training to high school students.