The wood products we use every day—
furniture, kitchen cabinets,
musical instruments, and more—
are produced by highly skilled woodworkers.
Woodworkers make wood products
from lumber and synthetic wood materials.
The modern woodworking trade
is highly technical;
while some continue to work
with traditional methods in small workshops,
most woodworkers use automated machinery,
such as computerized numerical control
—or CNC—machines,
working in high-production
assembly line facilities.
Machine woodworkers set up the equipment,
cut and shape wooden parts,
and verify dimensions.
They apply fasteners and adhesives
and assemble the parts into finished units.
To complete a piece, they install hardware,
and fit products for glass, metal trims,
electrical components, and stone.
Finally, they sand, and apply finishes.
Cabinetmakers and bench carpenters
make wood pieces,
and design custom cabinets
to customers’ specifications,
then build and install them.
Furniture finishers
do the finishing work of staining,
sealing, and top coating wooden products.
They also refinish furniture,
and may work with antiques
to preserve and repair them.
Workers may handle heavy materials
and be exposed to noise and dust.
Injuries occur at a higher rate
than in many other jobs.
Protective gear, including safety glasses,
respirators, and hearing protection devices,
are worn for many jobs.
Most woodworkers work full time
during regular business hours.
A high school diploma or equivalent
is typically required for woodworkers.
Full proficiency may take several years
of on-the-job training.