If you are a handyman or a wood worker and are interested in a career in the construction industry, there are a number of things you will need to consider. These include the nature of the work, the types of tools you will need, and the opportunities for job growth in the future.
Power tools
Power tools are a must-have for any wood worker. They are useful for completing projects that are difficult to complete with hand tools. It’s important to understand how to use them.
A circular saw is one of the most common power tools in carpentry. You can use it to cut sheet materials such as plywood. However, a circular saw cannot cut curves.
Bandsaws are also a good choice for non-ferrous metals. They offer good versatility.
Jigsaws are another tool that is commonly used by wood workers. Jigsaws are portable power tools, and they’re not only useful for cutting curved edges.
A jointer is another great power tool. Jointers square and straighten edges, and flatten boards before gluing them together.
A random orbital sander is another power tool that can be used to smooth wood. These machines sand two different grains of wood at the same time, which is not possible with a hand sander.
The wood router is a multifunction power tool that can be used on all kinds of materials. They are useful for carving wood, draining photo frames, and digging glass.
Typical duties
Wood workers craft and manufacture a variety of products from lumber. These include furniture and cabinets, custom-made wooden pieces and mass-produced products.
The woodworking process includes preparing the tools for the job, cutting and shaping the wooden parts, assembling them together and finishing them. Many woodworkers use automated machinery to complete the job. However, some woodworkers still use traditional techniques in small workshops.
Woodworkers usually need a high school diploma. They also need good hand-eye coordination, manual adroitness, mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to use computers. As they gain experience, some woodworkers move into more specialized jobs, such as cabinet making.
Most woodworkers work full time in regular business hours. Some work overtime, depending on their projects. They are exposed to noise and dust, which can cause health issues. Wearing protective equipment is necessary, such as safety glasses and respirators.
Woodworkers must have a strong grasp of mechanical principles and the ability to calculate dimensions. Their attention to detail allows them to produce a quality product.
Job growth in the next 10 years
A recent report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that job growth for wood workers in the next decade will be slow. The number of jobs is expected to grow about three percent over the next ten years. However, automation may limit the demand for workers in this field.
Woodworkers are employed in a variety of industries including manufacturing, construction, and mobile home production. They design, make, and fit wooden products. Their duties include reading technical manuals, understanding designs, and interpreting technical drawings. They use hand tools and machine equipment to create wooden products. To succeed in this profession, they must have strong hand-eye coordination, physical stamina, and a steady hand.
Woodworkers typically work full-time during regular business hours. They may have to endure excessive noise, exposure to hazardous materials, and prolonged repetitive motion. Some woodworkers wear protective clothing and hearing protection. In addition, their work schedules can vary.
Jobs for woodworkers are projected to increase slower than the average rate for all occupations. The fastest growth will be for occupations requiring advanced degrees.
Career opportunities
The woodworking industry is experiencing a renaissance. Today, many professionals have turned to woodworking as a hobby or full-time career. Some people pursue the profession through formal training. Others work as self-employed workers.
Woodworkers use various types of wood materials to make different products. These include furniture, cabinets, and window coverings. They also work with laminates, plywood, and veneers. To become a skilled woodworker, you need to be able to operate machinery and read measurements.
Most of the people who work in the field do so on a full-time basis. Those who work on a self-employed basis often earn higher salaries. A high school diploma is generally required to begin a woodworking career.
You can also choose to take an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a great way to learn. It will give you the practical experience you need to advance your career. Employers can hire you after the apprenticeship is completed. In addition to gaining on-the-job experience, you will be paid for your training.
