Program Description This two-year Ontario College Diploma program delivered in a compressed format over 45 weeks prepares students to work in the cabinetmaking and woodworking industry, producing both traditional and contemporary furniture and commercial cabinetry. Cabinet and furniture technicians design and build components to industry specifications using hand and power tools.
Delivery of all practical classes takes place in the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) facility. ACCE is fully outfitted with industry-standard equipment and tools allowing students to explore both traditional joinery and advanced technology used in today`s cabinet making and furniture industry.
This intense program is delivered over three consecutive levels. Students examine the history of the trade and its furniture, as well as materials, modern composites, adhesives and fasteners. Students gain proficiency in the construction of projects through the development of skills using hand tools and performing joinery and wood machining practices, with an emphasis on safety. Throughout the program progression is made to more advanced machine techniques using computers, specialized tools and machinery to design and construct furniture, kitchens, bathroom cabinets and millwork as well as to lay veneers. Using drafting and blueprint reading skills, students complete geometric layout in the shop and also create plans and shop drawings. Paramount to proper completion of a project, students develop and apply basic and advanced finish techniques including traditional and modern finishes.
Upon completion of this hands-on program, graduates possess skills for employment locally, nationally or internationally in areas, such as furniture, kitchen, bathroom, finishing and refinishing, as well as millwork industries. Graduates may also seek careers related to boatbuilding, airline interiors and elevator cabs. Graduates interested in working as journey-person cabinetmakers may choose to write exemption exams in the Red Seal Cabinetmaker apprenticeship program.
This program offers one cooperative education (Co-op) Work Term(s) option. Qualified students with a minimum GPA of 3.6, have the opportunity to apply for paid co-op employment to gain valuable work experience and networks within industry.
