Become a Member
Become a Member
Carpenters | Interior Systems | Industrial | Millwrights | Pile Drivers
Become a Member
Carpenters | Interior Systems | Industrial | Millwrights | Pile Drivers
Become a Member
Carpenters | Interior Systems | Industrial | Millwrights | Pile Drivers
The North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters represents nearly 27,000 members and their families across Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. We are proud to be a part of one of the largest and most respected labor unions in North America- the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC).
Our members are the driving force behind safe, high-quality construction projects that shape the communities we live in. From high school students exploring their future to experienced tradespeople and those ready for a career change, the Carpenters Union provides the training, support, and opportunities to build a rewarding career in the skilled trades.
We represent a wide range of crafts, including:
- Carpenters
- Interior Systems
- Industrial
- Millwrights
- Pile Drivers
When you become a union member, you are not just building structures - you are building your future. One with livable wages, employer-paid benefits, and the pride that comes with doing meaningful work throughout our communities.
STEPS FOR MEMBERSHIP
TOUR A CTI TRAINING CENTER |
Find your nearest CTI Training Center to schedule a visit and meet with your area Business Representative to see if a career in the skilled trades is a good fit for you. |
GET HIRED |
Secure a job with a Signatory Contractor. Your employer will then submit a Letter of Intent to your nearest CTI Training Center. If you need assistance finding a signatory contractor, please call 651-379-0200. |
COMPLETE YOUR APPRENTICESHIP AGREEMENTNot applicable for jouney-level. |
Bring proof of your high school diploma or GED to your nearest CTI Training Center. You will sign in and complete the necessary paperwork to finalize your Apprenticeship Agreement. |
ATTEND MEMBER ORIENTATION |
Join the next orientation session to complete your new member paperwork, learn about your benefits, receive information about your Local, and pay your initiation fees and member dues. |
START YOUR TRAINING |
Begin your apprenticeship with your temporary work card. You will earn while you learn starting day one! |
Union Benefits
Free Training & Education
Through our partnership with the UBC, CTI, and our signatory contractors, we offer training that sets the standard for safety, quality, and productivity on the job. From the apprenticeship program to journey-level courses and beyond, our members have access to continued education that keeps skills sharp and careers moving forward.
A Strong Support Network
You are never alone. As part of the Carpenters Union, you will join a brotherhood and sisterhood of skilled trades professionals who support one another, share opportunities, and take pride in building together.
Health Insurance
Members get access to high-quality health insurance for you and your family through our self-funded health and welfare trust funds. This coverage is part of the benefits package we negotiate with signatory contractors. Eligible members don't pay premiums. The plan includes medical and prescription drug coverage, along with dental and vision benefits.
Retirement
Members can look forward to a secure future with two types of retirement benefits: a defined benefit pension and a defined contribution pension.
- Defined Benefit Pension: This is a traditional pension plan. Your employer contributes a set amount of money to a pension fund for every hour you work. When you retire, you will receive a guaranteed monthly payment - that is your "defined benefit."
- Defined Contribution Pension: In addition to the traditional pension, most members also have a defined contribution plan. For every hour you work, your employer puts money directly into a personal retirement account in your name. Once you have vested, that money is yours. You can decide how it is invested, and you will be able to access the funds when you retire, leave the trades, or meet other eligibility conditions.
Life, Accidential Death, & Long-Term Disability Insurance
Members in good standing are eligible for Life, Accidential Dealth, and Long-Term Disability insurance through MetLife. This coverage is included as part of your union dues - there is no additional cost to you.
Disability
In Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, eligible members can receive up to $350 per week for up to 26 weeks. In Wisconsin, an 'Accident and Sickness' benefit pays up to $450 per week for up to 26 weeks.
Maternity Leave
Female members who are expecting or who have recently given birth are eligible for paid maternity leave. This benefit is available to all female members working under our benefit funds with the exception of members in our Industrial Locals.
- $800/week for six weeks for traditional delivery
- $800/week for eight weeks for cesarean delivery
- $800/week for up to 26 weeks for certain conditions during pregnancy or post-delivery
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Members in good standing have access to free, confidential help when life feels overwhelming. Whether it is personal, medical, mental health, or substance use concerns - support is just a call away. Through our Employee Assistance Program, you and your family can receive counseling, referrals, and advice tailored to your specific needs.
We work with TEAM Wellness at Work, a trusted provider that has been helping building trades members for over 30 years. Their experienced clinicians understand the unique everyday challenges working people face, and they are here to help you and your family get the support you need.
MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS
The Carpenters Union changes lives - and no one says it better than our members. Whether they joined straight out of high school, transitioned from another trade, or took a leap into a new career, our memebers are living proof that union support, training, and opportunity make a lasting impact. If you are interested in joining the Carpenters Union, complete the form below.