Cabinetmaking and Furniture Technician
Learn in state-of-the-art facilities.
- Compressed 42 week format allows you to get a diploma in only 3 semesters
- All classes are taught in the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) facility which is fully outfitted with the most up-to-date equipment and tools
- 60% of the program is lab based
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2024
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
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....(read more)
Overview
Learn in state-of-the-art facilities.
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
- 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.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
DRA1410
Course Name:
Drafting for Cabinetmakers
Course Description:
Geometrical representations are used universally to communicate ideas and information. The ability to accurately interpret and create graph... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
ENL1813T
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED2012
Course Name:
Achieving Success in the 21st Century
Course Description:
Rapid changes in technology have created new employment and business opportunities that challenge each of us to find our place as citizens i... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WOO1410
Course Name:
Wood Technology
Course Description:
Possessing a broad knowledge of manufactured and natural materials in order to make the proper choices with regards to application and susta... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WOO8930
Course Name:
Joinery
Course Description:
Success in the cabinetmaking trade requires strong hand skills and appreciation for attention to detail. Students progress from developing s... + Read More
Hours:
168.0
Code:
WOO8938
Course Name:
Hand Tools and Machine Basics
Course Description:
Proper use and safety of the tools of the trade are paramount. Students examine various hand tools and machinery used in the trade. Through ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CAM1420
Course Name:
CNC/Drafting and Plan Reading I
Course Description:
The use of technology in cabinetmaking is becoming increasingly important and widely practised. The ability to understand and use such techn... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WOO1421
Course Name:
Basic Furniture Finishing
Course Description:
The quality of the final product is dependent on meticulous care of surfaces. Students acquire theoretical knowledge and demonstrate that kn... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WOO1422
Course Name:
Furniture History and Cabinet Construction
Course Description:
Changes in technology and availability of raw materials have resulted in the evolution of today's industry standards accepted in the furnitu... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
WOO8939
Course Name:
Furniture Making
Course Description:
The evolution of technology has led to a greater reliance on machinery. However, hand tools also remain relevant within the industry. Studen... + Read More
Hours:
168.0
Code:
WOO8940
Course Name:
Advanced Machining
Course Description:
Today's cabinetmaking machinery requires both specialized training and maintenance effectively allowing increased efficiency for completion ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GED0575
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BUS1430
Course Name:
Applied Business Practices
Course Description:
Possessing an appreciation of how a business operates, as well as the roles and responsibilities associated with running a business prepares... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CAM1431
Course Name:
CNC/Drafting and Plan Reading II
Course Description:
Exposure to a variety of the industry-standard technologies increases confidence and awareness. Building on previously learned knowledge, st... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
ENL2003
Course Name:
Communications II for Technicians
Course Description:
Communicating effectively in the workplace is a key component of career advancement and essential skills development. The ability to read, u... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WOO0004
Course Name:
Furniture, Kitchens and Millwork
Course Description:
Students explore two separate aspects of the trade, kitchen cabinetry and the application of veneers. In the kitchen cabinetry portion focus... + Read More
Hours:
168.0
Code:
WOO1430
Course Name:
Commercial Cabinetry Theory
Course Description:
Given the vast demand of production-based kitchen and bath cabinetry, industry professionals require in-depth knowledge of the materials and... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
WOO8910
Course Name:
Furniture Finishing and Touch-Up
Course Description:
The main visual and tactile components of furniture are the finish. Students gain a working knowledge of the materials, applications, and eq... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GED0575
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
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.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- 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.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2023/2024 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Books and supplies can be purchased at the campus store. Expenses total approximately $450 for the program duration.
- Students are responsible for parking and locker fees, if applicable.
- All students are responsible for supplying and using their own personal protective equipment (such as CSA-approved safety footwear, non-tinted protective eyewear, hearing protection) as required in each lab environment.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $50 (subject to change) will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent)
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent)
- 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; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
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.
Application Information
CABINETMAKING AND FURNITURE TECHNICIAN
Program Code 0575X04FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro