Cabinetmaking

Cabinetmaking begins with a love of wood-and an eye for detail. This program will take that love and turn it into a marketable skill. You’ll learn all aspects of the trade-from identifying and selecting wood stock to reading Engineering Drawings and operating woodworking machines. You’ll also receive instruction and practice in the basic arts of cabinetry, including practice in shaping and cutting wood to assembling components, installing fasteners and hardware plus the preparation of articles for finishing, including the application of different types of decorative and protective finishes.

• Our instructors have hands-on experience in cabinetmaking and the carpentry industry. They serve as both your instructor and your career mentor.


• After gaining work experience, some cabinetmakers challenge an exam to become a journeyperson in the Cabinetmaker trade. Others go on to complete the Provincial Apprenticeship Program in the Carpenter trade.

• Cabinetmakers pursue a variety of opportunities. Some graduates start up small businesses specializing in woodworking and cabinetmaking. Others find employment with established companies and use their woodworking skills to make cabinets plus repair and assemble furniture. Cabinetmakers also manufacture and install other wood products such as doors and windows and other millwork.


• Learn more about labour market information - visit Career Options.

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.

• Red Seal – Cabinetmaker is a designated trade that qualifies for the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program. The Red Seal allows qualified tradespersons to practice the trade in any province or territory in Canada where the trade is designated without having to write further examinations.


• You’re expected to develop a portfolio of your work as part of this program of study. A portfolio is a powerful and convincing way to demonstrate your achievements to future employers over and above a standard résumé.


• The School of Trades and Technology has specific requirements for health and safety practices and procedures for all shops and labs. Students practice 5S+S quality system throughout the entire program and wear specified personal protective equipment when training in designated shops or labs.


• Students are required to maintain a work record book or journal.


• Safety apparel, such as hard hats and safety boots, is mandatory at most industrial or construction training workplaces. Workplaces may also require you to wear additional personal protective equipment.