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Career Cluster Construction
Students begin their carpentry training at school, learning to use hand tools for basic woodworking. As they progress, they learn to use portable hand tools used for working with roofing materials and trims as well as large equipment such as table saws. They also learn the fundamentals of computer assisted design. Direct experience at work sites beyond the school building is an important component of Carpentry training. Specific opportunities vary but might include interior remodeling; replacement of roofing, windows or siding; or building renovations.
Standards are critical areas of competency aligned to industry identified needs and Industry Recognized Credentials (IRCs) that will support student success in the field. Standards provide the structure that empowers the teacher to choose the best curriculum and instructional approaches to guide skill and knowledge development for students.
Industry Recognized Credentials demonstrate standards and skills that strengthen student access to careers upon graduation. Each framework identifies at least one essential safety and essential industry credential, with supplemental and specialized credentials identified to help expand opportunities. This framework is designed for students to gain insight and skills and credentials necessary for success in this field, including the essential credentials OSHA 10-Construction and National Center for Construction Education Research (NCCER) Level 1.
The following resources are provided to support educators in developing curriculum and delivering instruction related to this framework. For CTE Chapter 74 programs, instructors can refer to these resources in developing the 900+ hours of required learning time.
Math Lessons:
The following Math Lesson and Teachers Guide provide an illustration of how a specific math concept is used in the context of career application.
**Disclosure Statement: Reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Our office is not responsible for and does not in any way guarantee the accuracy of information in other sites accessible through links herein. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education DESE may supplement this list with other services and products that meet the specified criteria. For more information contact: ccte@mass.gov
Qualified teachers will hold a Career Technical Teacher License in Carpentry.
Last Updated: January 6, 2026