Roofer

Carpenters construct, install, and repair building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. Finish and custom carpenters specialize in detailed work including custom cabinetry, built-in furniture, millwork, trim installation, staircases, and architectural woodwork. The role requires reading blueprints, measuring and cutting materials precisely, joining materials using nails, screws, adhesives, and joinery techniques, and ensuring finished work meets aesthetic and structural standards. Carpenters must understand different wood species, their properties, and appropriate applications. The work spans new construction, renovation, restoration of historic buildings, and custom furniture fabrication. Each project presents unique challenges—fitting trim around irregular walls, matching existing woodwork in older homes, or translating design concepts into functional pieces. Physical demands include lifting materials, extended standing, and working at heights or in awkward positions.

Solar panel installers assemble, install, and maintain photovoltaic systems on rooftops and other structures, connecting panels to electrical systems and the grid. The work involves measuring and preparing installation sites, assembling support structures, mounting panels, connecting electrical components, installing inverters and monitoring systems, and ensuring installations meet electrical codes and manufacturer specifications. Installers work on residential rooftops, commercial buildings, and ground-mounted arrays. The job requires understanding electrical systems, roofing principles, and solar-specific technology. Physical demands include carrying panels, working at heights, and exposure to weather. The rapidly evolving solar industry means installers must stay current on new panel technologies, mounting systems, and code requirements. Work varies between new installations and maintenance/repair of existing systems.

General contractors manage construction projects from planning through completion, coordinating subcontractors, materials, schedules, and budgets to deliver finished projects. The work involves preparing cost estimates, hiring and supervising subcontractors, obtaining permits, ensuring code compliance, managing project schedules, solving problems that arise during construction, and maintaining communication with clients. GCs work on residential renovations, new home construction, commercial build-outs, and larger development projects. The role requires understanding all construction trades sufficiently to coordinate their work and identify problems. Successful contractors balance technical knowledge with business acumen, project management skills, and client relationship abilities. Projects involve countless decisions affecting quality, timeline, and budget, requiring judgment about trade-offs and creative problem-solving when unexpected issues arise.