Since 2005, The University of Montana College of Technology has provided students the opportunity to learn carpentry skills through courses offered by the Montana BILT Project. Montana BILT also has helped COT implement a two-year carpentry degree program and furnish their newly remodeled carpenter lab.

Students in COT’s Department of Industrial Technology carpentry program learn competency skills based on standards from the National Center for Construction Education and Research. Traditional and nontraditional students work hand-in-hand with professionals, both on campus and at construction sites.

In addition to general education courses, students in the program learn the various steps of becoming a carpenter, including safe practices. They can take advantage of internship opportunities and hands-on projects and can earn certification from the National Center for Construction Education and Research, as well as a one-year certificate or a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree from COT.

Lead instructor of the program, Donnie Laughlin, has worked as a carpenter and builder for 35 years and has first-hand knowledge of many aspects of the carpenter trade and the construction business. He welcomes students of all ages from all walks of life. Laughlin can be reached at 406-243-7692 or by e-mail at donnie.laughlin@mso.umt.edu.

For more information about the carpentry program, call COT Enrollment Services, 406-243-7882, or e-mail cotadmissions@umontana.edu.