“I joined the Carpenters Union because I enjoy building amazing things and to show that women can do anything they put their mind to. I got a head start into the apprenticeship after graduating with a Carpenters diploma from Southwestern Iowa Community College. I’ve worked with great guys that show me everything they know so I can become a better carpenter. The health and pension benefits are great too.

I’m proud to be a Union Carpenter because of the support and the training. It’s not just a job we are helping build the future.”

— Kaylee Houston – Apprentice

“I’ve been an Apprenticeship instructor at the Carpenters Training Center for over 13 years. Without a doubt, the most satisfying part of my job is seeing a person come through the door, sometimes knowing nothing about carpentry, and then progress to be great carpenters and providers for their families. Some of them even move directly into leadership positions running multimillion dollar jobs!”

— Jeff Weeks – Instructor

“I grew up watching and experiencing the success my father has had being a carpenter. I realized early on that it was a path for me and in 2004 I joined the apprenticeship. Knowing that throughout the whole apprenticeship I would earn good wages, have health insurance, and get started on my retirement. Now I am a Superintendent for Neumann Brothers Inc. running multi-million dollar jobs and have a whole career ahead of me!”

— LANCE HOWARD