To become a cabinetmaker, one needs aptitude, education, experience, and certification. Completing an apprenticeship program is necessary, which includes professional training and class work. Certification is not mandatory but is preferred by employers. Woodworkers must invest time in developing basic carpentry skills and may need to supply their own tools.
There are four requirements to become a woodworker: aptitude, education, experience and certification. All four are required to get a job as a joiner. A cabinetmaker is a craftsman responsible for building cabinets from wood through a combination of design and physical exertion.
A cabinetmaker is considered a skilled trade. In this role, you work exclusively with your hands and tools to create a finished product from raw materials such as wood or composite materials. A natural aptitude for measurement, manual dexterity, detail-oriented work and physical labor is required. All woodworkers must be physically strong and able to lift and move large pieces of finished product as needed.
To become a cabinetmaker, it is necessary to complete an apprenticeship program. This type of program is a combination of professional training and class work. A high school diploma is not required to gain admission to an apprenticeship program, but most employers prefer it.
The program portion is offered through a wide variety of community and career colleges. This is usually five to six months of full-time schooling. An internship is arranged with a local carpenter who will train you in the practical requirements of this job. An apprenticeship normally lasts five to seven years.
During this period, the apprentice gains experience in tool use, material selection, construction techniques, and design. There are specific requirements for each year of the program, and evaluation reports must be submitted by the supervisor to the program manager.
Business certification is awarded upon successful completion of program requirements. While certification is not a mandatory requirement to work as a woodworker, many employers will require it and this opens the door to starting your own business. Uncertified carpenters may have difficulty securing new clients, starting a business to find projects of interest.
If you are considering becoming a woodworker, invest time in developing basic carpentry skills. See part-time courses offered by the local community college program on basic carpentry, using construction tools and cabinets. On average, it takes 10,000 hours of work to become a master of any skill. Start early and invest the time you need to learn as much as you can.
Many woodworkers are required to supply their own tools while working as apprentices. The tools needed range in total cost between $3,000 and $10,000. Funding is available to help with these costs through a combination of state and federal employment programs. Additionally, many states include purchasing tools as a tax-deductible expense, as long as the tools are employment-related.
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