Cabinetmakers build, repair, finish and install residential and commercial cabinets, furniture and architectural millwork. They read drawings and specifications, and prepare layouts. They set up and operate woodworking equipment, both power and computerized, to machine wood products and composite materials. They use hand and power tools, and precision woodworking tools to perform their work, and they sand and finish the surfaces and apply finishing products. They are employed by millwork contractors, general contractors, and kitchen, cabinet and furniture manufacturers, or are self-employed. The products may be production or custom-made pieces. They can specialize in a specific type of product, such as custom-made furniture, stairs or cabinet doors. In cabinetmaking shops using high-tech, computer-controlled equipment, they can specialize in one or two functions. They work in a shop environment, but they may work at locations where the products are installed. They are exposed to high noise levels, sawdust and chemicals, and there are risks of injury involved in working with woodworking machinery, portable power tools and hand tools.

Cabinetmakers have good eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, mathematical aptitude and good conceptual skills. They require a high degree of accuracy, and good eyesight to select woods and look for imperfections. The work may require lifting of heavy materials. This standard recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of carpenters, and painters and decorators. Cabinetmakers may act as mentors and trainers to apprentices, and can advance to supervisory or design positions, or set up their own shop. Some specialize in areas such as stairs, veneering or finishing.
https://www.red-seal.ca/_conf/assets/custom/docms/cabinetmaker/tp2022-eng.pdf

APPRENTICESHIP TERM: 4 years, 7200 hours (Plan of Training – 2022)
Level 1	Level 2	Level 3	Level 4
Pre-Employment (32 wks)	7 weeks	7 weeks	6 weeks
12 weeks**	7 weeks	7 weeks	6 weeks
Refer to the Pathways to Certification diagram.**