TFC #25: How Education Drives Success in Today's Cabinetmaking Industry

Gone are the days when cabinetmaking was seen as an industry lagging behind in terms of technology adoption.

Historically rooted in traditional craftsmanship, cabinetmakers were often perceived as artisans focused solely on manual skills and craftsmanship.

However, in recent years, the landscape has dramatically transformed.

The industry has recognized the immense benefits that technology brings, from sophisticated design software and CNC machinery to automated production processes and smart integration systems.

This shift has propelled cabinetmaking into the realm of a tech-forward industry, where the marriage of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology has revolutionized the way cabinets are designed, manufactured, and delivered.

The Problem

The chasm between knowledge and new tools, technology, and software is widening at an alarming rate.

As these new tools emerge at an astonishing pace, staying up to date with the latest trends and developments becomes increasingly challenging for cabinetmakers. This gap poses a real threat to the industry as it creates a divide between those who adapt and embrace technology and those who fall behind.

Cabinetmakers who fail to bridge this gap risk being left behind in an increasingly competitive market.

Furthermore, without a solid foundation of knowledge and understanding of new software and technologies, cabinetmakers may struggle to fully leverage their investments, leading to decreased productivity, higher costs, and missed opportunities.

The Solution

Here are three solutions to bridge the gap between knowledge and the rapid advancements in technology and software for cabinetmakers:

Commit to Continuous Growth

Engage in continuous professional development by attending training programs, workshops, conferences, and industry events.

This commitment to ongoing learning will keep you updated on emerging trends, best practices, and technological advancements, allowing you to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of cabinetmaking.

This idea of continuous growth has been the driver behind my entire career path. I want to always be in a position where I am learning from my experiences and other people around me.

Engage in Networking and Communities

Connect with experienced cabinetmakers who have successfully integrated new technologies into their practices. Seek out mentorship opportunities where you can learn from their expertise.

Don’t stop there, once you’ve learned something, be willing to share it with others.

Don’t always mooch information off of others without being willing to help someone who is exactly where you were a year or two ago.

In-person, networking could be attending industry events such as IWF and AWFS, or local woodworking shows.

Networking online can be an extremely powerful and time-efficient way of meeting other people and learning from them. Facebook groups, online forums, newsletters, and other communities are all examples of networking online.

Collaborate With Software & Machinery Vendors

This is a good one.

Take advantage of the training your software and machinery vendors have to offer.

I’ll actually take it a step further….

Prioritize buying from vendors who prioritize your education and training.

I’ve seen plenty of examples of companies who sell you their product and push you out the door. Sure, they might give you a couple of training helps but it’s obvious that training you isn’t a priority.

Steer clear of these types of companies.

Whether you are looking to purchase a CNC machine, edgebander, design software, or full ERP system, make sure the company you are buying from is going to do everything it can to ensure your success.

A good example of this is Innergy.
(this is a 100% unsolicited example)

They sell an ERP software solution for cabinet shops and other millwork industries.

I honestly don’t know that much about their product or how good it is, but I know they care about their customer’s success.

Take a look at their website and notice all the references to education.

Check out the events they put on.

Look at the webinars they host.

If I was a cabinet shop, this is the type of company I would want to partner with.

Choose a vendor that sees your success as their own.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this exploration on bridging the gap between knowledge and new technology in the cabinetmaking industry, it's time for you to take action.

Embrace the idea of continuous learning, training, and education to stay ahead of the curve.

The gap between what you know and the new technology available will only widen unless you actively do something about it.

Embrace the challenge and turn it into an opportunity for growth and success.

Embrace the mindset of being a lifelong learner, always seeking to expand your skills, deepen your expertise, and stay at the forefront of the industry.

That’s all for this week. Thanks for reading!

Myron