Carpentry Skills Certificate

By the end of this course, you’ll walk away with practical carpentry skills, a certificate of completion, and the confidence to take on real-world building projects. Whether you want to enter the trades or simply improve your DIY skills, this program is the perfect starting point! 

Schedule

January 2026

Saturdays

Time Commitment

40-hours 

Cost

TBD

Apply By

Register by December 31, 2025

instructor and student wearing safety glasses working in carpentry class

he 5-Week Carpentry Skills Certificate Program is designed for beginners looking to enter the trades, homeowners who want to develop practical carpentry skills, and anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of homebuilding. This hands-on course provides a strong foundation in basic carpentry techniques, tool usage, and safety procedures, preparing participants for entry-level employment opportunities in the construction field or DIY home projects. By the end of this course, you’ll walk away with practical carpentry skills, a certificate of completion, and the confidence to take on real-world building projects. Whether you want to enter the trades or simply improve your DIY skills, this program is the perfect starting point! 

What You’ll Learn 

Throughout this intensive five-week training, you will: 

  • Work with hand and power tools – Learn how to safely and effectively use saws, drills, levels, and more. 

  • Understand measuring and cutting techniques – Master the skills needed for precision woodworking. 

  • Build fundamental structures – Gain experience in framing, flooring, and simple construction projects. 

  • Follow proper safety protocols – Develop best practices to work safely on-site and at home. 

  • Learn job-ready skills – Get the knowledge and hands-on training required for entry-level positions in the construction and carpentry industry. 

Who Should Enroll? 

  • Individuals interested in a career in carpentry or construction 
     
  • Homeowners or DIY enthusiasts who want to develop practical building skills 
     
  • Anyone looking for a hands-on, skill-based learning experience 
     
  • Those seeking entry-level employment in the skilled trades 

Why Choose This Program? 

  • Hands-on learning with experienced instructors 

  • Small class sizes for personalized instruction 

  • Industry-relevant skills for real-world applications 

  • No prior experience required – Just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn! 

Logistical information:

Schedule: TBD/January 2026 |  Saturdays

Location:  School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management (SECCM), Bristol Campus, 1 Old Ferry Road 02809

Explore the Bristol Campus Labs here!


Instructor

Dr. Michael EmmerDr. Michael Emmerreceived his B.S. in Construction Management, Suma Cum Laude, from Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston in 2002, his M.S. in Construction Science and Management from Clemson University in South Carolina in 2004 and his Ph.D. from the University of Florida’s College of Design, Construction, and Planning in Gainesville in 2009. His areas of research and interest are sustainable construction with a focus in material extraction/reuse and deconstruction, estimating, and is also active in promoting and exploring owner training and productivity in the AEC industry. He has been teaching full-time for over ten years and before that worked in the construction industry for over 25 years in a variety of positions to include laborer, carpenter, carpenter foreman, superintendent, project manager, and owner’s representative.
 
Dr. Emmer is a member of the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) as a trustee, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), United States Green Building Council (USGBC), City of Attleboro Planning Board & Historical Commission, Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE), and Housing Works of Rhode Island (HWRI) board of directors.


Questions? Reach out!

A person works on a project

Everyone has questions.

Our Pathway Specialists are here to help. Contact EXT Admissions at ucadmissions@rwu.edu