Is becoming a woodworker right for me?
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How to become a Woodworker
Many employers seek applicants who have a high school diploma or the equivalent. People seeking woodworking jobs can enhance their employment and advancement prospects by completing high school and getting training in computer applications and math. Some woodworkers obtain their skills by taking courses at technical schools or community colleges. Others attend universities that offer training in wood technology, furniture manufacturing, wood engineering, and production management. These programs prepare students for jobs in production, supervision, engineering, and management, and are increasingly important as woodworking technology advances. Some woodworkers become Certified Custom Woodworkers or Master Custom Woodworkers through certification.
Education is helpful, but woodworkers are primarily trained on the job, where they learn skills from experienced workers. Beginning woodworkers are given basic tasks, such as putting a piece of wood through a machine and catching the wood at the end of the process. As they gain experience, new woodworkers do more complex tasks with less supervision. In about one year, they can learn basic machine operations and job tasks. Becoming a skilled woodworker often takes three or more years. Skilled workers can read blueprints, set up machines, and plan work sequences.