Building Construction & Cabinetmaking
- Technical Diploma
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
Our Building Construction and Cabinetmaking program helps you build on your knowledge and develop your skills to prepare for employment in the fields of construction and cabinet making.
You'll study fundamentals of building design, site development, building layout operations, concrete applications, cabinet design and construction, and materials used in the construction and cabinet making industries. You'll be instructed in safe and proper use of hand tools, portable power tools, and stationary power equipment. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to apply framing, interior finishing, and exterior finishing techniques at actual jobsites, and work on commercial framing and finishing projects in the cabinet shop and framing lab. Related mathematics, blueprint reading, estimating, building science principles, and OSHA 10 are part of the training.
Graduates are ready for a variety of careers, including cabinetmaking, residential and commercial carpentry, general construction, working at building supply stores or lumberyards, and other positions in the construction industry.
Building Construction & Cabinetmaking 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 41 |
| Graduates Responding | 12 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 7 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 1 |
| Seeking Employment | 0 |
| Continuing Education | 3 |
| Not in Labor Market | 4 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 0 | 5 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 41 | |
| Average Hourly Wage | $23.84 | |
| Hourly Wage Range | $23.00-$25.00 | |
| Average Annual Salary | $44,000 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Carpenter
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Use hand and power tools and equipment
- Apply industry recognized safety practices and procedures
- Analyze sustainable building practices
- Interpret construction drawings
- Interpret building codes
- Demonstrate industry building practices and material application
- Calculate the cost of a project
- Recommend a plan of procedure to eliminate wasted time and materials
- Demonstrate industry cabinetmaking practices and material application
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
Application Fee:
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [1].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [2].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [3] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [4]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [5].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [6] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [7]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Career Pathways:
Building Construction & Cabinetmaking
Prior Learning:
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [8] about what may apply to this program.
Certificates:
Technical Diploma:
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [9] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [10] self-service portal for academic planning.