Cabinetmakers

Most cabinetmaking jobs require a high school diploma.

Certification is not required to work as a cabinetmaker in B.C. Those who wish to be certified must complete a four-year apprenticeship program.

Apprenticeship programs

Work experience and in-class instruction are part of apprenticeship programs. Some part-time and online programs may be available. To apprentice, workers must be sponsored by an employer. A person who successfully completes an apprenticeship program and the final certification exam earns a Certificate of Qualification. Workers with significant experience in the trade may be able to challenge the certification exam to earn the Certificate of Qualification without completing a formal apprenticeship. For more information on earning a Certificate of Qualification, visit SkilledTradesBC.

To work in other provinces

Cabinetmakers may need Red Seal certification to work in other provinces. This can be earned by passing an exam and proving significant work experience.

Workers coming to B.C. 

Cabinetmakers who are certified by a regulator elsewhere in Canada can apply for the same certification from the regulator in B.C. Under the terms of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), most applicants who are transferring their credentials from elsewhere in Canada will not be required to complete additional training or testing. However, the B.C. regulator may ask applicants to provide further information, such as a letter of good standing, references or a criminal record check.

Workers who trained outside of Canada

Cabinetmakers who trained outside of Canada and have never received certification from a Canadian jurisdiction will likely need a full assessment. Most occupational regulators have a process for assessment and recognize internationally trained applicants. Contact SkilledTradesBC for details on how to apply for certification in B.C.

For information about labour mobility in Canada, visit www.workersmobility.ca.

View a list of Professional Regulatory Authorities in B.C.

Discover data, facts and information that have been gathered and analyzed. Learn about the characteristics of the economy and labour market in B.C.

Find out about employment types and trends by region and industry.

The B.C. Labour Market Outlook is a 10-year forecast of the expected supply and demand for labour in the province. It’s usually updated every year. The purpose is to provide British Columbians with the knowledge to make informed decisions on careers, skills training, education and hiring.

Learn about the opportunities in B.C.'s major industries, including employment trends, earning potential, locations of work and more.

New technologies, such as computer-controlled equipment and computer-based systems for design, estimating and cost control, are increasing cabinetmakers’ productivity. So are new, more efficient methods, such as pre-manufactured cabinets that reduce the amount of required work.

As the use of computers increases, workers with computer skills have an advantage in finding jobs.

Most job openings result from retirements. Future demand for cabinetmakers depends on growth in the manufacturing industry and demand for new home construction and renovations.