The professional body for people who work in wood
Carpenters, joiners, shopfitters and furniture makers – from first day of training to the top of the trade. We set the standard, recognise those who meet it, and help them keep getting better.
Join or step up a grade
Earn the letters that set your work apart by qualification – with the online IOC assessment coming soon.
Membership → I’m hiringFind a professional
Search for vetted carpenters and joiners who hold IOC membership at MIOC or above.
Find a professional → I’m learningStudent and apprentice hub
Free student membership at IOC colleges, apprenticeships, competitions and career advice.
Student Hub → I train or employColleges and employers
Support your learners and your team, and show your commitment to professional standards.
Colleges and employers →From first day of training to Master Carpenter
- Start here
Student · Apprentice
In full-time education, or employed on an apprenticeship in a wood trade.
- Step 2
Associate
Working towards Member, with support, within three years.
- Step 3
Member
MIOCAn established, competent craftsperson.
- Step 4
Fellow
FIOCAn advanced craftsperson with depth of experience.
- Step 5 Coming soon
Master
MstIOCWill hold the title Master Carpenter, by the Craft or Leadership route.
Step up with your qualifications. And coming soon: prove your competence online through the IOC assessment on the WOMA Academy, with no need to go back to college. Coming soon
Find your gradeBeing a Fellow means everything. That’s why I wear it. I love it when I put my letters on a quote. Clients can see you didn’t just go to college and stop. You carried on.
Mark of the Maker celebrates the people behind the work, at every stage of their career. Share yours with #MarkOfTheMaker, or put yourself forward as an Ambassador.
Look for the letters
IOC post-nominals are earned, not bought. Before we award them, we check:
- Qualifications, or a pass in the IOC assessment Coming soon
- Years of experience, evidence of work and references
- A commitment to our Code of Conduct
Member
An established, competent craftsperson with 3+ years’ experience.
Fellow
An advanced craftsperson with 5+ years’ experience and ongoing CPD.
Master Carpenter Coming soon
A leader of the trade, recognised for mastery of the craft or leading others.
Latest from the Institute
The IOC Apprentice of the Year Award
Colleges and employers can now nominate an outstanding apprentice at any stage for the Rainleaf Trophy.
Nominate an apprentice →2026–27 Carpenters’ Craft Competition
Open to carpentry, joinery and shopfitting students at college.
Enter the competition →Elaine Morrissey appointed Programme Manager
Elaine joins the Institute to lead the Wood/Work programme.
Read more →Earn your mark. Join today.
Join the professional body for people who work in wood, and let your letters speak for your work.
Serving carpenters and joiners since 1890 · #MarkOfTheMaker