Carpentry Career Advice: Seeking Growth After 7 Years

Hi everyone,

I’ve been a carpenter for 7 years, primarily specializing in finishing work across both commercial and domestic projects. I’ve always taken pride in my work ethic and consistently receive positive feedback from customers and colleagues on the quality of my craftsmanship. The pay is great, and I’m confident in my skills, but lately, I’ve found myself struggling with job satisfaction—it feels like I’m just going through the motions.

I’m eager to take on new challenges and grow in my career by pursuing higher-standard work or exploring new areas. I’ve always been drawn to traditional carpentry techniques, particularly timber framing, and would love to develop skills in that area or similar specialized fields.

For those who’ve been in a similar situation, how did you break into higher-end or niche areas of carpentry? Are there any certifications, training programs, or types of projects you’d recommend for someone looking to advance or pivot within the trade?

Any advice, insights, or resources would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!