NARI Certified Lead Carpenters (CLC®) are recognized as skilled field professionals who oversee all on-site aspects of a remodeling project — including personnel coordination, subcontractor management, scheduling, safety, and client relations — all while remaining actively engaged in hands-on work. These certified professionals demonstrate the knowledge, leadership, and technical ability required to deliver high-quality results and exceptional customer satisfaction.

The Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC®) Program focuses on the essential principles of effective, in-the-field project management:

• Operational efficiency – Apply proven practices and procedures to keep projects on schedule and within budget, improving both productivity and profitability.
• Personnel management – Lead and coordinate team members to optimize workflow, communication, and overall project performance.
• Regulatory compliance – Navigate building codes confidently and communicate effectively with code officials to ensure full compliance and safety.
• Professional communication – Build strong working relationships through clear, respectful communication with clients, subcontractors, and trade professionals.
• Trade expertise – Understand the roles and capabilities of the various trades involved in remodeling and evaluate work to ensure it meets professional standards of quality and precision.

Benefits

Successfully managing remodeling projects on-site requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and effective communication to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and profitably.

• Advance your on-site project management skills – Strengthen your ability to coordinate people, materials, and schedules to improve project timeliness, quality, and profitability.
• Become an indispensable on-site leader – Position yourself as a trusted, go-to professional for your employer, clients, and team members throughout every phase of the project.
• Demonstrate professionalism and expertise – Validate your commitment to excellence, ethical practice, and client satisfaction through nationally recognized certification.
• Stand out in the marketplace – Enhance your reputation, credibility, and visibility within the remodeling industry.
• Invest in your professional future – Expand your technical and leadership skill set to build a rewarding and successful career in remodeling.

Check if you're eligible

Before applying for CLC certification, assure you meet the following certification requirements:

• Minimum of five (5) years continuous experience in the remodeling industry
• Minimum of two (2) years in a Lead Carpenter role.

Online Preparatory Course

Need help preparing for your CLC certification exam? Don't go it alone.

NARI offers a convenient, online, instructor-led certification preparatory course to help you advance your skill set and prepare for your certification exam alongside your peers from across the country.