Expert: maura macaluso - 11/21/2007

Question
I've been working in finance for the past 15 years and am planning one changing to a career in cabinetmaking.  There are multiple tech schools in my area, offering either a one or two year program.  The two year program appears to have more classes related to joinery.  Do you have any opinion on whether it's worth the extra time and expense to enroll in the two year program?

Answer
I would imagine that a one-year course would teach you the basics.  There is a lot to be said for on-the-job learning but on-the-job learning is oftentimes trial and error learning.  The two year course should deal with more intricate and fancy joinery and advanced techniques....great to do if you have the time and finances to do it. First you will need to decide what type of carpenter you'd like to be.  do you wish to be adequate and capable and learn as you go or do you wish to have decent credentials and shoot for the high end or creative market? Remember this....lots of people can make a little money money but the best few can make a lot of money.  Don't set your sights on becoming rich. In the beginning aim for breaking even. from my point of view I think carpenters are a dime a dozen but it takes years and lots of knowledge to become a true craftsman.  The two year course will accelerate the knowledge gathering but you will have to weigh it out.  Is there anyway that you can do the two year and also start up a small business while doing the school.  This way when you are finished classes you can then start building up the business rather than starting from square one.  Most wood businesses become successful due to word of mouth advertising and referrals, but they can take years to reach a profitable stage.  You must be reliable and skilled and motivated to do well in order to succeed.  And keep in mind that just because you deal in finance, that doesn't mean you will automatically do well as a business/craftsman.  The most valuable things you can learn are people and pricing skills.  Good Luck to you!