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Pre-employment Carpenter

Carpenter

Contact Us

Katelyn Vallee
Trades Enrolment Specialist
 780 871 5451
 780 808 5766
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Schedule time with Katelyn
LocationVermilion
CredentialCertificate
Program Length16 weeks
Delivery MethodFace-to-face

Sharpen your skills and prepare for a career in carpentry through Lakeland's pre-employment carpenter program.

In 16 weeks, you'll learn to build, renovate and repair through classroom and lab work in our Trades Centre, led by expert instructors. Your training is the same as a first-year apprentice.

You'll learn to:

  • read blueprints and follow building codes and bylaws
  • select, measure, mark and cut materials
  • join materials using nails, screws, bolts and glue
  • ensure projects are level, square and correct

Once you're finished with your technical training, you may be eligible to write the 1st period Alberta apprenticeship exam. 

Then, apply your skills and build industry connections during a 120-hour work placement.

Requirements

Recommended path

1. High school coursework with a minimum of:

  • 50% in English 10-2
  • 50% in Math 10-3

OR A pass mark in all five Canadian General Educational Development (GED) or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) tests.

2. Proof of English language proficiency

Notes:

There are no additional program requirements.

As you prepare for your start date, review this important information.

You should also refer to the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training website for information about trade requirements and career opportunities.

Enrolment is the final step after you've been accepted, paid your tuition deposit, and the timetable has been set.

  • You will be automatically enrolled in your courses.
  • You can expect to be enrolled approximately 1 month before the program start date.
  • Once you've been enrolled, your schedule will be available in My Lakeland.

If you completed relevant courses at another post-secondary institution, you may be eligible for transfer credit. Apply for transfer credit at least 2 months before classes start by completing the transfer credit form.

Review all of the other ways Lakeland does prior learning assessments.

When you complete the program requirements, you will be awarded a Certificate of Achievement.

More program details

2025-26 tuition and fees

Year Tuition and program fees Estimated books and supplies Mandatory fees
1 $6,220 $350 $617
Remember that studying includes other expenses than tuition and fees - you should also be budgeting for your accommodation and living expenses. Alberta student loan guidelines recommends $1,153/month.


You can view your supply list as well.

Subject

Hours
Safety 11
Building materials 9
Hand and power tools 83
Site preparation and building layout 5
Foundation 48
Floor frame 20
Estimating and plans 64

Your weekly class schedule can be found on your My Lakeland student portal when available. This is usually one month prior to the program start date.

Important dates found below include your tuition due date, your program registration/start date, events and holidays.

Dates are subject to change. We recommend you check here regularly for any updates.

Aug 11 — Fees due
Aug 25 — Registration day/classes begin
Aug 29 — Last day to withdraw from college with 50% refund
Sept 30 — National Truth & Reconciliation Day, college closed
Oct 13 — Thanksgiving, college closed
Nov 7 — Practical Exam
Nov 11 — Remembrance Day, college closed
Nov 18 — Last day of classes
Nov 18 — AIT Challenge Exam
Nov 19 - Dec 12 — Practicum

Please view the specific supplies and textbooks required for trades pre-employment programs.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Jennifer Germann, Business Industry Development Coordinator

After completing the pre-employment program, you can:

  • continue on the path to becoming a journeyperson by enrolling as an apprentice carpenter. You'll need to find an employer and officially register as an apprentice.
  • works towards obtaining your Blue and Red Seals. 
    • the Red Seal is a national designation earned by passing an interprovincial exam, allowing you to working anywhere in Canada with your Red Seal Endorsement.
    • the Blue Seal is an Alberta program earned by completing business studies. If you're interested in taking these courses at Lakeland, please contact the business enrolment specialist for more information.
Student working in the carpentry shop
Hands on learning at its finest, that's what you'll get during your training with Lakeland. Then, put your new skills to work during your time with top-notch employers.


Learning in Action

Student using a circular saw
Visiting campus is the best way to see all that we offer. The next best option is our virtual tours, you can explore the trades centre, the Vermilion quad and even our rec centre.


Explore our campus

Student building a project
Employers value experience. Match that with the expertise gained in the classroom and in our trades centre? Hear from out alumni how its worked out for them.


Jobs and Careers

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