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A trade to open (and make) many doors
Zane Gilbert-Johnston is soon to be the first generation of cabinet makers in his family, as he approaches his final year of his apprenticeship.
The Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (MSF30322) student, who is based at the TAFE Queensland Toowoomba campus, has only positive things to say about the training, space and teachers, as he reflects on his time ‘on’ the extensive variety of tools and machines.
“I chose cabinet making because it was a hobby of mine throughout pretty much my entire childhood,” Zane began.
“I ended up doing a little bit of furnishing in high school, as well as metalwork, but I didn’t want to continue it, so after trying another trade before cabinet making — this has worked out for me, perfectly,” he shared.
Zane is employed by Barco Custom Joinery as an apprentice and enjoys TAFE Queensland’s fully-equipped training facility during block training — which he attends several times each year. An added benefit for Zane is that the cost of his training has be subsidised, as he was eligible for his fees to be covered by the Queensland Government’s Free apprenticeships for under 25s incentive.
Zane particularly appreciates the variety of the machines to train on at the campus, the extensive types of timbers, and the practical course content itself.
“I find TAFE Queensland really gives me a deeper knowledge into all the tools and the machines, as well as the correct and safe way to handle everything. Andrew (our teacher) shares all we need to know, and more, as well,” Zane said.
The Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (MSF30322) course sees apprentices learn about design, through to production, how to use machines and power tools correctly, and employee skills such as time management and working to a budget.
Students are also expected to craft a ‘carryall’ as one of their earlier projects followed by a wave top bar stool, saucepan trivet, bedside cabinet, and side table, amongst other flat panel and personal projects.
“I've enjoyed working on some of the machines that we've got here at TAFE Queensland, like the computer numerical control machine (CNC machine). The one here is different compared to the one at work.”
“There are other machines as well, like the wide belt sander, the surface planer and a radial arm saw — which I'd never even heard of before coming here,” he offered.
Post-apprenticeship, Zane plans to stay with Barco. He’s keen to keep learning and further his trade in any way he can, having already been involved in some pretty significant projects.
“Recently I completed a reception counter for the commercial company, Hitachi. It was a decent-sized counter. It has two benchtops on it, two cupboards. It has two big panels running up along the face with a smaller benchtop on the top, and it's got LED lights running all the way around through that. So, it was intricate, but I really enjoyed it,” he shared.
As for Zane’s future employability on completion and demand for his skill set, the number of people working as cabinetmakers are expected to see stable future growth. According to the Australian Government's Labour Market Insights website, the trade will grow to increase to 29,000 roles in 2026.
When asked to provide some advice for those contemplating a career in cabinet making, Zane quickly offered, “It's worth the time. Listen to everyone involved and put forward what you're being taught. Really, that's about it.”
“Take up the opportunity. Definitely. It's worth the time!” he added.