Woman working with piece of wood

Program Explorer

Cabinetry and Woodworking

Use a variety of woods, laminates and engineered materials to learn the artistry of cabinetmaking and woodworking.

Work on projects that are designed, created and built to specification by woodworkers.

A career in cabinetmaking and woodworking takes desire, dedication, and attention to detail – these are all learnable traits. As a woodworker, you’ll create and install finished products in residential, commercial, industrial and healthcare facilities, and customize or repair previously installed projects.

In the Cabinetry and Woodworking program – the only one of its kind offered in the province – was designed to allow grads the opportunity to pursue a Level One Cabinetmaker designation from Apprenticeship Manitoba if they choose to continue to work towards their Red Seal Certification.

This program will also provide you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills in all aspects of the cabinetmaking and woodworking industry — from concept to finished product.

  • Program Type
    Full-time
  • Credential
    Certificate
  • Program Delivery
    In-person
  • In-person Location
    Notre Dame Campus
  • Intake
    Fall
  • Program Length
    38 weeks
  • Total Tuition / Fees for Courses
    $9,000 – $10,000
  • How to Enrol
    Application required
  • Application Type
    Direct entry
  • Work-Integrated Learning
    Gain hands-on experience with real work opportunities
  • International Program
    Open to students from around the globe

Experience a Polytechnic Education

Full-time Delivery: Something New Every Term

Gain knowledge about wood and wood products, and learn the technical skills required to succeed in the cabinetry and woodworking industry. Courses include a practical, hands-on approach to provide students with industry-relevant skills.

TERM 1

Learn to use equipment and materials safely and effectively. Hone the technical skills required in common woodworking shops.

TERM 2

Engage in group projects and enhance your skills with the use of advanced equipment. Develop real-world learning through a field experience.

TERM 3

Work in teams in a simulated industry environment – create, finish and install a kitchen to gain hands-on experience.

Employment Potential

Prepare yourself for career success

Potential Grad CAREERS

  • Machine operator 
  • Installer
  • Finishing
  • Custom cabinetmaker
  • Repair technician
  • CNC operator/programmer
  • Finish carpenter
  • Level 1 Apprentice 
  • Furniture builder
  • Assembler
  • Entrepreneur

AFFILIATIONS AND ACCREDITATIONS

What to Expect in This Program

Get Prepared for the Future of Work

Excel with practical learning and experienced instructors, all focused on your success. With an employer-driven education, you won’t just be ready for a career – you’ll be prepared to stay in front of what’s ahead.

Log being milled
Understand the foundational theory about wood processing to master woodworking techniques.
Piece of wood being shaven down
Learn about safe and effective work by practicing on the same tools and equipment used in the industry.
Woman sanding piece of wood
Proper technique is the key to success – our students learn in a safe environment and career-ready when they graduate.
Man in woodshop checking diagrams
Planning your project is just as important as building your products. At RRC Polytech, you’ll be given the tools to understand and complete the planning process.
Man working in shop with large machinery
Work with state-of-the-art equipment in brand new facilities – get the most out a polytechnic education to build a successful career.
Students in a wood shop classroom
This program creates and encourages a collaborative culture that students can bring with them to industry.
Man staining a piece of wood
Product finishing can be the star of your project. Learn to perfect staining and lacquering techniques in our woodworking labs to hit the ground running as soon as you graduate.
Carpenters installing kitchen cabinets
Installing a kitchen requires precision and teamwork. Students will be exposed to effective methods of installation by working in teams in their final project.
Person polishing a piece of wood
Explore industry trends and think outside the box – all while collaborating with instructors and classmates to improve your skillsets.

Graduate Success

Join a large network of successful Cabinetry and Woodworking grads working across Manitoba in a wide variety of positions. An education from RRC Polytech ensures you have the knowledge, practical skills and confidence to succeed in the woodworking industry.

The statistics below represent the opinions and employment statuses of this program’s recent grads. They were retrieved from the 2018-2019 RRC Polytech Graduate Satisfaction and Employment Report.

Two people installing kitchen cabinets

100% – SATISFIED WITH RRC POLYTECH EDUCATION

Students appreciate our small class sizes and regular interaction with instructors, which creates a supportive learning environment.

100% – RECOMMEND PROGRAM TO OTHERs

The modern equipment in the cabinetry and woodworking shops provide grads with a seamless transition from College to industry.

Woman sawing wood in a wood shop
Two people sanding a large piece of wood

100% – CONSIDER INSTRUCTORS KNOWLEDGEABLE

Instructors have current and relevant work experience and maintain ties to industry. They work closely with students to share their expertise and provide guidance.

Jon Slater

“The instructors were excellent at sharing knowledge and demonstrating the required skills to succeed. […] The program provided many connections in industry and the instructors continue to be trusted mentors for me.”

Jon Slater – Project Manager
F.C. WoodWorks Inc.

“Going back to school as a mature student, RRC Polytech gave me the knowledge and skills to jump straight into a new career path. The program covered in detail a variety of areas in millwork in condensed timeline.”

Daidre Shedden – Purchaser
Winwood Millwork Inc.
Sonja Mueller

“Not only did this program help me become a Red Seal Cabinetmaker, it also lead me to become a kitchen and bath Design Consultant. The knowledge I have from this program will be an asset no matter where I go.”

Sonja Mueller – Design Consultant
Superior Cabinets

Who Should Enrol?

Turn your talents into academic success

You enjoy building things, are good with your hands and physically capable. Successful tradespeople in this industry are typically those who are creative, have an eye for detail, communicate well, complete calculations accurately, and use drawings and blueprints effectively.

Students that excel in this program often share these interests, skills and personality traits.

PERSONALITY TRAITS

  • Adaptable
  • Challenge-driven
  • Creative
  • Critical thinker
  • Detail-oriented

SKILLS

  • Dependability
  • Lifelong learning
  • Positive attitude
  • Reliability
  • Self-motivation

INTERESTS

  • Woodworking
  • CNC machines
  • Cabinetry
  • Cabinetmaking
  • Furniture making
  • Millwork
  • Woodwork finishing

All the Information You Need

MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION

Woman sitting in computer lab

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.

Exterior of RRC Polytech building

LOCATION, DATES AND FEES

Start planning with peace of mind and get the information you need on one easy-to-find page. Review start dates, locations, book and equipment costs and program fees.

Woman standing on stairs holding certificate

SCHOLARSHIPS

Celebrate and motivate your learning. Whether you’ve sprinted through the first term or just received your acceptance letter, find a variety of bursaries, scholarships and awards.

Person browsing the RRC Polytech website

OTHER INFORMATION

Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.

Exterior of RRC Polytech building

DATES AND FEES

Start preparing with peace of mind. View information about courses and sections, including locations, delivery methods and costs. It only takes minutes to register and further your future.

Students outside in a courtyard

LIST OF COURSES

Plan out your preferred learning journey. Review a summary of this program’s courses to discover what you’ll learn and how an RRC Polytech education will help your career.

Woman sitting in computer lab

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.

Person browsing the RRC Polytech website

OTHER INFORMATION

Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.

Begin Your Journey

Get Started with RRC Polytech

Start Your Application

Your future is within reach, and we’re here to help you achieve it. Experience industry-focused opportunities available at RRC Polytech and develop the knowledge and skills to grow, lead and excel in your future career.

Funding Your Education

Support yourself while pursuing your RRC Polytech education. You may be eligible for loans, grants and scholarships to help tackle your financial needs.

Future Student Events

Explore our upcoming information sessions and events to learn more about our programs and to get your questions answered.

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.

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