Cabinetmaker

Note: This trade is transitioning to a Pan-Canadian Harmonized program, so it is important that Apprentices understand how that impacts their program path. Details on the transition can be found via SkilledTradesBC, or contact your trainer for the most current updates.

Cabinetmakers (also know as "Joiners") build, repair and re-style wooden furniture, cabinets, fixtures and other products. There are many similarities with the Carpentry trade, however joinery tends to be more specialized. Using architectural drawings, Cabinetmakers often operate woodworking machines to cut and form parts, which they then assemble into finished products. Some specialize in custom-made furniture. Preparation of cost estimates is often a key skill and responsibility. Increasingly, Cabinetmakers are tasked with installing pre-manufactured cabinets and fixtures.

Cabinetmaker is a nationally designated trade under the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal program.

Recommendations

Good hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, mathematical aptitude and good conceptual skills.

 

Education recommendation: Grade 10 or equivalent (Grade 12 is preferred), including English 10, Math 10, Science 10.

 

The Apprenticeship Program comprises Levels 1-to-4 of progressive technical training, with each Level taking 6 weeks (180 hours) to complete. In addition, apprentices are required to accumulate 6,480 hours of work-based training. Refer to SkilledTradesBC for full details.

PROGRAM TYPES

Institution

Campus

Date

Program

Contact

Selkirk College

Silver King Campus - Nelson

Sep 02 2025May 21 2026

Cabinet Maker (Joiner)