A carpenter is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge and abilities required to construct, renovate and repair institutional, commercial, industrial (I.C.I.) and residential structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials.
They can work for a wide array of employers, including construction firms, building owners and users, building developers and government departments. A significant number of carpenters are union members or may be self-employed.
While the scope of the carpenter trade includes many aspects of building construction, a growing number of carpenters work primarily in one area of specialization within the trade, such as concrete forming, framing, finishing, interior systems and scaffolding. Carpenters are employed in a variety of job environments, including houses under construction and renovations, plants that pre-fabricate buildings, residential or commercial sites and industrial sites. They may work in a variety of weather conditions. Many carpenters routinely work overtime in peak periods or according to the needs of each project. Safety is of prime importance to all carpenters. There is some risk of injury resulting from slips and falls, falling objects and the use of hand and power tools. The proper use of personal protective equipment is very important to carpenters regardless of their location of work.
Though not described in this analysis as knowledge or abilities, some important competencies of the carpenter are: good knowledge of mathematics, the ability to use metric and imperial measurements, an understanding of building science, communication skills, problem solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Other skills present in a competent carpenter are: the ability to work at heights, the ability to stand or kneel for long periods of time, manual dexterity and good balance. Carpentry is a physically demanding occupation requiring the lifting of heavy tools and materials. As carpentry is primarily a work-based training trade, mentoring of apprentices and workers is a skill required to ensure capable completion of duties and quality workmanship.
This analysis recognizes similarities or overlaps in the work of other tradespersons such as roofers, lathers (interior systems mechanic), floorcovering installers, concrete finishers and cabinetmakers. Experienced carpenters may advance to foreman and construction superintendent or may become contractors. Carpenters are involved in every step of building construction, which is an advantage when applying for supervisory positions.
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Welder
This occupational analysis identifies tasks performed by qualified welders across Canada. A welder is a tradesperson who uses a wide variety of occupational knowledge, skills and abilities in combination with cutting, gouging and welding processes to tack and weld assemblies and fabrications within a quality control system. The welder must... More >
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Motorcycle Mechanic
Motorcycle mechanics work on motorcycles and other vehicles such as motor scooters and all-terrain vehicles. They assemble, diagnose, maintain and repair engines, transmissions, drive systems, steering assemblies, braking systems, chassis and suspension, electrical systems, and fuel and exhaust systems. They may specialize in repairing, rebuilding, customizing or servicing these systems... More >
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Euclid Math Contest
The Euclid Math Contest is an opportunity for students to have fun and to develop their mathematical problem solving ability. Details are available in the full information brochure. More >
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Automotive Painter
Automotive painters work on the surfaces of motor vehicles, primarily in restoring vehicles to their original condition following damage and subsequent auto body repair. Generally, automotive painting begins when body work has been completed. Some of the duties that an automotive painter completes include: removing exterior trim and hardware; removing... More >
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Volunteer Centres in Saskatchewan
Volunteer Saskatoon 100-506 25th St East Saskatoon SK S7K 4A7 Tel: 306-975-3477 Fax: 306 244 0583 volunteersaskatoon@unitedwaysaskatoon.ca More >
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Veterinary Colleges in Canada
The Atlantic Veterinary College University of Prince Edward Island 550 University Avenue Charlottetown, PEI, Canada C1A 4P3 Université de Montréal 3200, rue Sicotte Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada J2S 7C6 The Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1 The Western College of Veterinary Medicine University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon,... More >
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10 tips for Daily Learning
1. Look up a new word in the dictionary every day. Try to use it in conversation at least three times that same day. 2. Read for pleasure every day. 3. Math puzzles and tongue twisters are fun - and they help build numeracy and literacy skills as well. 4.... More >
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Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
A heavy duty equipment technician is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge, abilities and skills required to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, maintain, operate and test mobile heavy duty off-road equipment. Heavy duty equipment technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealerships,... More >