Cabinetmaking and Furniture Technician

The two-year Cabinetmaking and Furniture Technician Ontario College Diploma program at Algonquin College prepares you with the skills and techniques necessary to get started in the industry.

This program, compressed into a 42-week format, is a highly-intensive but rewarding journey for those seeking a hands-on career in the cabinetmaking and woodworking industry. All classes take place at the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence, where students use modern industry-standard equipment and tools. You learn both traditional joinery and advanced technology used in the industry today. Learn both practical application and theoretical approaches, with classes ranging from the History of Architecture to Wood Technology.

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates may find careers in many sectors of the cabinetmaking and woodworking industry, including: furniture and cabinetmaking, furniture, refinishing and restoration, kitchen and commercial cabinetry and boat building and refitting. You may also seek employment as a furniture, tools and/or hardware salesperson, or pursue self-employment opportunities. You may also consider an apprenticeship.

What You’ll Learn

• Solve trade related problems using basic mathematics.
• Use appropriate trade terminology in communications with colleagues, supervisors and clients.
• Explain the relationship between industry, style and history on furniture.
• Apply surface preparation, stains and finishes to specification.
• Examine the nature and manufacture of materials common to the trade and the relationship to industry.
• Apply the basic concepts and principles of marketing, management and financial control to the operation of a small business.
• Construct advanced furniture and cabinetry projects according to specifications, plans and cutting lists.
• Select, maintain and use tools of the trade and standard woodworking machinery.
• Use computer software to design projects, determine cutting procedures, and to calculate material requirements and costing.
• Perform all work in compliance with relevant legislations, regulations and health and safety procedures.
• Develop and use joinery and layout techniques to design and construct projects.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.