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The Cabinet Maker
The Cabinet Maker
A cabinet maker fabricates, assembles and installs kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, wardrobes, counters and other fittings from wood and laminates.
Cabinet makers also repair and assemble prepared wooden parts to make other furniture.
Meet the cabinet maker: Kristy Francis
Kristy Francis is a Project Manager at Lathams Kitchens. Starting her career in cabinet making, she is now thriving in her current role. She takes care of check measuring, production planning, ordering, trades and oversees and liaises with everyone involved in a renovation project. ‘What I love the most about the job is that by using my organisational skills, we can all achieve a smooth positive outcome,’ Kristy says. ‘The juggling, demand and coordinating is all fulfilling and satisfying.’
Kristy’s passion for construction was a product of her young commitment to DIY projects. At the tender age of 19, Kristy bought her first house. ‘It wasn’t much at the time (due to affordability) and needed a bit of TLC. Living there on my own – I turned my hand to improving it and making it my own. That’s where the passion came from – necessity,’ she laughs.
‘Your gender doesn’t define your ability – your ability does. If you are interested and passionate about anything, you will be successful,’ she says. ‘I highly recommend following your dreams and committing to making them come true. Take the opportunities that you create or that present themselves to you. Hard work, dedication and the right attitude will get you there.’
Kristy’s top 5 tips
Be organised, communicate and be accountable.
Think on your feet – all problems have solutions. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Never think that you, or your role, is the only one that matters.
No one can do everything. Teamwork is vital, so is harmony.
Always show respect and understanding until you aren’t shown any.
Never assume others have the same ‘common sense’ as you do.
Ask questions – be involved – go looking for answers.
Inside and outside of your organisation. Networking is important. Teach and be taught.
Back yourself.
Don’t let anyone minimise who you are or what you do.
Cabinet makers in Australia: key statistics
Employed
30,900Median age
35Female share
5%What a cabinet maker does
Examines drawings, work orders and sample parts to determine specifications.
Selects and works with materials such as timber, veneers, particle board and synthetic wood.
Marks out, cuts and shapes wood.
Works from drawings and specifications to make furniture.
Makes fittings for boats, caravans and other items where fine detail is required.
Assembles parts to form sections of furniture and completed articles.
Fits hinges, locks, catches, drawers and shelves.
Makes frames for chairs and couches.
Repairs and refurbishes furniture and antiques.
How to get qualified
To get qualified as a cabinet maker, you can complete the Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology as part of your apprenticeship.
Join the HIA apprentice program and start your new residential building career being supported every step of the way by our friendly and experienced team.
