About Cabinetmaking And Furniture Technician (co-op And Non Co-op Version) in Algonquin College

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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.

Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability.

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
• 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.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Enjoy a hands-on approach to learning about the cabinetmaking and furniture industry.
• Are attentive to detail.
• Can work independently.
• Have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.

Careers

Graduates may find employment in furniture making and cabinetmaking, furniture repair refinishing and restoration, kitchen and commercial cabinetry, as well as boatbuilding and refitting. Other career options may include job estimating, sales of furniture, tools, hardware and machinery. Graduates are also well equipped for future self-employment.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

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

Program Eligibility

• English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).

• Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent) is recommended.
• Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
• IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20.

Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.

Refresher/upgrading courses are available through Academic Upgrading courses, the Centre for Continuing and Online Learning and through local school boards.

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