Cabinet Makers Assn. rolls out certification program
Cabinet Makers Assn. rolls out certification program
Cabinet Makers Assn. rolls out certification programLAS VEGAS --

The Cabinet Makers Association(CMA) formally launched its professional credential program to the cabinet making and custom woodworking industry at the AWFS Fair, July 20-23.

Using both live events and web-based technologies, the CMA's  new certificaiton program will allow industry professionals to earn both basic and master level professional certification credentials.

The AWFS Fair offered four programs in which attendees could obtain CEUs toward their credentials. The CMA will offer certification credit programs at the Custom Cabinet Conference, slated for February 15-17, 2012 in Austin, TX.

Cabinet Makers Assn. rolls out certification program  
View video 

“When we looked at the industry, we saw a gaping hole,” said Dave Grulke, executive director of the CMA. “While there are other professional educational and standards programs available that address design, technique, construction standards and a smattering of other areas, there was nothing that seemed to address the entire business of running a successful custom woodworking or cabinet shop. That’s where CMA’s Professional Certifications differ. We address the entire business, and include the all important customer’s perspective in our program.”

The CMA’s program requires testing in major areas of business operations, and classroom instruction will be offered. All participants in the program will begin with an intensive business ethics session, then enrollees will move into basic certification curriculum. The basic level graduate will exhibit advanced knowledge in business management, machinery, wood physics, design, finishing, safety education and the basics of measuring. Master level graduates will show expert knowledge in at least seven of the following areas:

* Tools
* Portable Power Tools
* Machinery (Master Level)
* Shop Drawings/Design Drawings
* Software
* CNC Machinery
* Marketing
* Lean Manufacturing
* Finance & Computer Assisted Bookkeeping
* Shop/Job Site Safety
* Green Manufacturing

Once an enrollee has passed required testing, he or she will be interviewed face to face by the CMA Certification Board before being conferred certification. Certified individuals will be authorized to add their professional designation to their name, which include a three letter acronym (CCM=Certified Cabinet Maker, CCW=Certified Custom Woodworker, MCM=Master Cabinet Maker, MCW=Master Custom Woodworker).

To be eligible for the program, the applicant must remain a CMA member in good standing, and earn annual Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to keep his or her knowledge fresh and up to date.

The program was developed by a committee of CMA volunteers, including Leland Thomasset, of Taghkanic Woodwork, Holmes, NY, committee chair, and committee members Jim Falk, Progressive Wood Works, Rye, NY; Brendan Mathews, Foothill Cabinetworks, Vista, CA; Scott Comstock, Woodperfect Custom Cabinetry, Forney, TX; Jeff Mitzel, Green Award Custom Woodworking, Austin, TX; and John Langley, John Langley Cabinets, Baldwin City, KS.

Full details about the CMA Professional Certification program are available at cabinetmakers.org.

Posted by Rich Christianson

Have something to say? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.