University of Montana College Of Technology builds program for high school carpenters

High school students interested in working as carpenters can get started on their career paths even before they graduate, thanks to a new program offered by the University of Montana College of Technology.

The program allows students to begin taking carpentry classes in high school and receive nine credits at the COT.

The Montana Contractors’ Association partnered with the COT to offer the nationally known curriculum designed by the National Center for Construction and Education Research to the three Missoula public high schools, said Jerry Laughery, education and training director of the Montana Contractors’ Association.

“It’s something that I think can be very beneficial to students,” said COT Dean Paul Williamson.

The program consists of safety instruction and four levels of carpentry training, he said. High school students will generally complete the safety courses as well as the first level of training, Williamson said.

“It’s focused at juniors and seniors in high school,” Laughery said.

Erin Madison
Montana Kaimin

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