Carpentry at WMCI

Tools & Equipment

Here are some of the tools that you'll learn to use in this course:

• Miter and circular saws
• Power drills and drivers
• Hand and power tools
• Framing squares, tape measures, rulers and levels
• Lumber and building materials
• Fasteners and hardware
• PPE, including hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves
• Framing and layout equipment

Available Certifications

Through this program, you’ll be prepared to earn certifications in:

• NCCER CORE
• NCCER General Carpentry credentials
• OSHA 10
• CPR

Potential College Credit

College credit opportunities may be available through WMCI’s postsecondary partnerships.*

*Students must meet minimum requirements. 

Possible Career Options & Earning Potential

The range of pay for professionals in Construction careers covers a broad range and depends upon many factors. Below are annual salary ranges for a few roles this program may lead you into.

With a HS diploma (some certification could be required):

• Floor Layer
  Entry Level: $36,850 | Median: $46,800 | High End: $74,680
• Construction Laborer
  Entry Level: $37,220 | Median: $49,590 | High End: $69,890
• Painter
  Entry Level: $37,440 | Median: $50,650 | High End: $75,670
• Roofer
  Entry Level: $41,910 | Median: $59,530 | High End: $80,270
• Carpenter
  Entry Level: $44,550 | Median: $61,680 | High End: $81,860

With additional college and/or advanced certifications:

• Construction & Building Inspector
  Entry Level: $47,100 | Median: $71,040 | High End: $95,980
• First-Line Supervisor of Construction Trades
  Entry Level: $57,140 | Median: $78,180 | High End: $119,990
• Construction Manager
  Entry Level: $61,830 | Median: $103,230 | High End: $171,340

* Note: Job titles and salary data are taken directly from O*Net (as of 2026).

Program Location(s)

Classes take place at:

West Michigan Construction Institution located at 801 Century SW in Grand Rapids.