Architectural millwork adds to the aesthetics of a building and is often a major part of what people notice and remember about a structure.  Produced in a mill, millwork is manufactured to create decorative elements both for the interior and exterior of a building. Millwork can refer to doors, crown molding, baseboards, mantels, window casings and more.

Cabinet making is a skill that can lead to work in this field, as both require a technical and creative understanding of woodwork. Millwork also requires a good understanding of many elements, since building directly into a structure means interacting with other parts of it. Read on for some more things you should know about architectural millwork before graduating!

Millwork After Cabinet Making School Requires Diverse Knowledge

Millwork involves building decorative wooden elements directly into a building. Things like plumbing and lighting are affected by this, as these elements can interact with one another. Having a good basic knowledge of other trades is helpful and it is essential to know where elements are located in a structure to avoid problems or interference.

Since millwork is usually custom made, every job will be unique. The more diverse and extensive your knowledge is, the more you will be able to adapt to different rooms or environments when doing millwork. The projects you encounter will have to adapt to various layouts, dimensions and requirements. Cabinet making school is a great place to start understanding different types of projects and how to keep track of measurements and designs.

Architectural Millwork on Exteriors After Cabinet Making School

Architectural millwork refers to millwork made to fit in with the (often exterior) decor of a building. This could be elements such as trim and more elaborate details on the outside of a structure, like accents and moldings. Usually, exterior architectural millwork is done before millwork on the inside of a building. Architectural millwork can be done in a variety of styles and can be highly individualized.

An example of variation in exterior moldings is classical or ancient moldings versus gothic and medieval. The former have Grecian/Roman influence, while medieval and gothic styles draw from flora and fauna for inspiration.

Why Cabinet Making Matters for Architecture

A major difference between millwork and mass-produced pieces is the element of customization. When mass-produced pieces are used in spaces, they cannot be adapted to specific layouts or dimensions. This interferes with the overall look and style, which is important for architectural value. With customized pieces, woodwork can be designed and created to fit with the space, instead of finding a way to make the space work with the piece. Cabinet making training may lead you to working in the field of architectural millwork, which allows more opportunity for beauty and cohesive design.

A very important part of cabinetmaking is choosing materials. In custom projects, materials can make the difference when trying to achieve a look. Not only lumber, but also hardware for cabinets will affect the way that they are received. Architectural millwork can be a fulfilling path if you are interested in combining creativity with technical knowledge to improve spaces and environments.

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To protect a newly renovated home from rain, wind and other conditions, you’ll need the best exterior finish. Exterior finishes are materials that cover the outside of a building or a home. Different exterior finishes are better for different homes depending on climate. They are essential for not only protecting homeowners from the weather, but also for maximizing the home’s resale value.

There are several ways anyone working in home renovation can protect buildings from the external elements, and make them look good in the process. Here are three exterior finishes you should know about if you’re studying home renovation.

1. Wood is a Traditional Finish That Every Home Renovation Tech Should Know

Wood is one of the more basic types of finishes for a home, but it’s also one that can provide plenty of versatility. For example, wood siding can come in redwood, spruce and cedar form, and can be stained or painted in various colours. While wood siding on its own is not very fire resistant, it can be treated to make it more resistant to fires. It can also be applied in multiple forms, including as vertical boards, drop siding, shingles, logs, and clapboards. Wood has a number of advantages, including its natural beauty, along with its resistance to impact and its ability to be quickly and easily installed.

2. Brick is Another Important Finish to Learn While in Home Renovation Training

This is important to learn about for anyone wanting to become a home renovation technician, since it doesn’t need a great deal of maintenance. In fact, occasional washing is often good enough for brick, and giving it sufficient maintenance can even make it last more than 100 years. Brick siding not only ages extremely well, but is also incredibly durable, which is perhaps why many brick buildings built decades ago are still standing and well-maintained. Whether you install it using brick veneer or brick masonry, this type of exterior finish doesn’t need any refinishing or repainting done, and holds up nicely against extreme weather conditions and fire—a testament to its durability and timelessness.

3. Vinyl Siding: Low-Maintenance, Highly Versatile, and Long-Lasting

Since you will be learning how to tackle various kinds of construction projects during your home renovation training, vinyl siding is another type of exterior finish you’d do well to learn more about. Vinyl siding is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its durability, lack of maintenance (since it only requires occasional washing), and cost efficiency. Plus, it can come in different shapes, sizes and colours. It can also be installed fairly easily by the homeowner rather than by a professional, and its colour will generally hold up for a long time. While it may be more vulnerable to damage in extreme weather compared to other finishes, it is extremely versatile and can be applied in different styles. Insulated vinyl is also very ecologically friendly in its ability to save energy in both warmer and colder climates.

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There’s no doubt that the trades are an excellent path for individuals looking for a stimulating and reliable career that allows them to work with their hands and make a good income. If you’ve already determined that you want to work in the trades, the next step is to determine which particular trades career is ideal for you, so you can enroll in the right program at trades school!

There are plenty of exciting options available in the trades, from becoming a carpenter or cabinet maker to starting an electrician or HVAC career. Curious to learn more? Read our infographic below for an introduction to promising trades careers, so you can determine which career is right for you!

Which Trades Career Is Right for You?

Become an HVAC Technician!

What do they do?

• Install, service, and repair HVAC systems in commercial and residential buildings

Typical workplaces

• Private contracting companies
• Engineering firms
• Municipalities
• Residential services companies

Reap these benefits of an HVAC Career

• Canadian weather requires heating and cooling year-round, creating plenty of need for HVAC!
• Above average job growth expected in Ontario

 

Start a Hands-on Career as a Welder

What do they do?

• Install, maintain, and repair structural and piping systems in a variety of environments
• Weld together piping and metals

Typical workplaces

• Manufacturing organizations
• Residential service companies
• Private contracting companies
• Engineering firms

Unique perks of becoming a Welder

• A new challenge every day with a career that lets you work with your hands
• A variety of job opportunities available across many sectors

 

Launch an Eco-Friendly Career as a Solar Energy Technician

What do they do?

• Help to install, maintain, and troubleshoot solar energy systems

Typical workplaces

• Contracting companies
• Energy consultant companies
• Solar energy organizations
• Energy services organizations

Tempting perks of a solar energy career

• Work towards creating a more sustainable environment
• The renewable energy industry is booming in Canada
• 66% of Canada’s energy is from renewable sources

 

Put Your Hands to Work with a Cabinetmaking Career

What do they do?

• Transform wood into furniture and finishings such as trim and kitchen cupboards

Typical workplaces

• Millwork companies
• Furniture manufacturers
• Construction companies

Exciting benefits of a carpentry career

• Above average outlook for job growth in Ontario
• You can start your own business
• 34% of carpenters in Ontario are self-employed

 

Transform Homes as a Home Renovation Technician

What do they do?

• Work with clients to transform their homes
• Paint, add additions, and install windows, doors, flooring, and more

Typical workplaces

• Home restoration companies
• Residential renovation organizations
• Roofing companies
• Construction companies

Enjoy these perks of becoming a Home Renovation Technician

• Above average employment growth in Ontario
• Ability to work for yourself
• 68% of renovators are self-employed

 

Jumpstart a Lucrative Career as a Construction & Maintenance Electrician!

What do they do?

• Service, inspect, and test electrical systems
• Diagnose problems with electrical networks

Typical workplaces

• Electrical contracting companies
• Commercial and residential construction companies
• Government companies

Benefits of becoming a Construction & Maintenance Electrician

• Lucrative salary
• Above average job growth in Ontario
• 67% of workers work full-time

Sources:

www.payscale.ca

https://www.app.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/labourmarket/ojf/findoccupation.asp

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Have you been considering enrolling in a training program for quite some time? If so, it’s the perfect time to stop making excuses and start making progress!

Trade school is an excellent option for students looking for an affordable and efficient education that will lead to a lucrative and secure career with great job satisfaction. There are so may trade and construction careers available in Canada, within many different industries, that you’re bound to find your ideal fit in the trades.

The first step towards starting your career, though, is enrolling in a training program so you have the knowledge you need to succeed. If you’re hesitant to make the leap, keep reading to discover some great excuse-proof reasons why you should take control of your future and enroll in trade school!

Excuse-proof Reasons to Enroll at a Trade School

You can’t argue with these great reasons to enroll in trade school!

Receive Highly Relevant and Applied Training

• Learn in a hands-on environment
• Begin practicing your new skills right away
• Apply all the knowledge you gain directly to your career

A Variety of Exciting Career Options

You can study to become a:

• Welder
• HVAC Technician
• Solar Energy Technician
• Cabinetmaker
• Home Renovation Technician
• Construction & Maintenance Electrician
• Electrical Technology Technician
• And more!

A Shorter & More Affordable Program than a Traditional University Degree

• Skip a 4-year degree
• Begin working quickly after graduation
• Financial options, like the following, help students pay for their studies:
• Student Lines of Credit
• Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
• Second Careers
• RESP
• Lifelong Learning Plan
• Employment Ontario
• Monthly Payment Plan

 

The Trades Are Booming Across Canada

• 6 million skilled job openings by 2021
• Trades workers make an hourly wage that’s about 6% higher than other occupations

Begin a Career That Aligns with Your Passions

• Train for a career you’re excited about
• Work in a hands-on environment
• See the fruits of your labour
• Have the opportunity to open your own business

Fun fact: Professionals working in the trades report higher job satisfaction

Receive Personalized Help Finding Your Ideal Career

• Learn how to create an effective cover letter, resume, and portfolio
• Benefit from private job listings through your college
• Choose a school with a Hire a Grad program

Experienced Instructors

• Receive career advice from experienced industry professionals
• Learn from knowledgeable and passionate instructors

 

 

Sources:

https://www.ontariocolleges.ca/colleges/paying-for-college

https://business.financialpost.com/executive/making-a-university-degree-pay-off

https://www.macleans.ca/work/jobs/the-future-of-jobs-in-canada/

https://qtd.mwg.mybluehost.me/website_ca58c31e/admissions/

 

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Are you thinking about a new career? Whether you’re just out of school or you’re thinking of switching paths, you may want to consider a career in the trades.

Canada is currently facing a shortage of skilled trades people. Despite offering an opportunity to enjoy a high standard of living, trades careers aren’t attracting enough new professionals to meet demand. This is mainly due to outdated stereotypes about “blue collar” jobs, such as them being low-paid or unsatisfying. But forget what you think you know about the trades! Surveys of people in the construction trades, for example, finds that they are happier in their careers than other Canadians.

And pursuing a career in the trades doesn’t mean you have to give up a great pay cheque for the sake of your passion. Trades people also earn impressively high salaries. After finishing electrician training, for example, you could eventually make over $63,000, which is the average salary for electricians in Canada.

Still not convinced that a career in the trades is a great idea? Check out this infographic about 4 awesome benefits of a trades career.

4 Awesome Benefits of Trades Careers

1. Trades Careers Are Hands-On

Not too keen about sitting behind a computer all day?

Trades careers allow you to work with your hands every day

Build things you can be proud of

Tackle new and exciting challenges

Trades careers involve working in a variety of interesting settings

2. Trades Workers Are In Demand

Canada is facing a skilled labour shortage

The construction industry alone will have 44,100 unfilled job vacancies by 2028

Unfilled industrial maintenance jobs are expected to be almost as high

In Ontario, 91,100 construction workers will retire by 2028

Only 77,800 new entrants will be available to replace them

If you want a job that is in extremely high demand, join the trades!

3. Trades Careers Pay Well

Think a career in the trades doesn’t pay well? Think again!

A shortage of trades workers has fueled impressive wage growth

Check out these average Canadian salaries for in-demand trades:

• Electrician: $63,236
• Plumber: $63,345
• HVAC Mechanic: $58,500
• Roofer: $56,550
• Carpenter: $52,296
• Welding: $50,700

In the trades, experience counts:

Experienced trades workers on average make up to $91,163 per year

4. Earn While You Learn

Don’t want to wait through 4 years of schooling before making money?

Pre-apprenticeship programs take less time to complete!

Once you become a trades apprentice, you’ll earn while you learn

Apprentices work under the supervision of a certified tradesperson

 

There are so many reasons to pursue a career in the trades!

Discover which option would best suit your interests.

 

Sources:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/start-apprenticeship

https://www.on-sitemag.com/labour/the-impending-shortage-canadian-construction-industry-has-300000-jobs-to-fill-over-next-decade/1003962065/

https://www.constructionforecasts.ca/sites/forecast/files/highlights/2019/2019_ON_Constr_Maint_Looking_Forward.pdf

https://rescon.com/reports/files/REST_Report.pdf

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HVAC technicians are required to have a complex skill set to address different tasks. Every day might provide different challenges, from identifying maintenance risks to diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults to cleaning a system or doing warranty service. Whether you work in a commercial or residential setting, customer service skills also play a big role in your success.

Skilled trades people trained in HVAC are in demand and many employers stress the importance of customer service skills. While it helps if you already have some experience with customers, these so-called soft skills can be learned. With practice and guidance, you will quickly see the variety of reasons these skills are important. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Short Term Comfort Guarantees Long Term Comfort

If you work in a residential setting you know, of course, that you’re working in someone’s house. Ultimately, you are contributing to their overall comfort of their home. Installing or maintaining an air-conditioner when it’s hot or making sure a furnace runs all winter is the main job in making people feel comfortable. However, the customer’s comfort while you’re actually in their home is just as important.

An experienced technician who has already had a long HVAC career will say that being friendly and communicative means that they get called back. A customer that feels at ease while you work is also more likely to recommend you to others, which will only help you in the long run.

Customer Trust Adds Value to HVAC Training

There are a number of ways in which you can build trust with a customer after your HVAC training. For example, it can be helpful to explain the work you are doing, give updates, and leave room for customers to ask questions. These types of exchanges add value to your work because a customer will have a better understanding of your job and see that you know what you’re talking about.

When you break down what you do in everyday language and recommend preventative maintenance it also demonstrates to a customer that your goal is to have a system that will not need extra, costly repairs. Of course, if their system does need more attention in the future, they will have confidence that your return will be worth it.

Sensitivity Gives Everyone Options

While there is a lot of joy involved in installing, repairing and maintaining the systems that people rely on every day, you sometimes have to deliver bad news. When you go out on a call because a furnace doesn’t seem to be working or the AC has stopped, your job may be to tell people they must do an expensive repair or replacement. The way a technician delivers this news must be sensitive to the situation and show understanding.

Again, communication skills come into play. Whatever the situation might be, it is important that you be able to explain a customer’s options clearly. Sensitivity to different levels of technical understanding as well as sensitivity to financial impact will keep you and your HVAC business as an option for more customers in the future.

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As you may already know, there are many elements involved in the business of cabinetmaking. You might work in a commercial setting, for a custom furniture maker or within a construction firm. Whatever the work setting is, you must be able to manage the small tasks that help you reach your main goal of making well-crafted woodworks.

If you are self-employed it will become even more important to know how to juggle tasks. You may have to set aside time to communicate with clients about future jobs, update them on current work, and invoice for completed pieces.

In any case, the need to multi-task or manage multiple jobs means that your work is in demand and that is a good thing. On top of having a positive attitude, here are a few suggestions to help you along the way.

Make Checklists

If you have done cabinet making training  you will be familiar with reading blueprints, creating designs and making material lists for projects. Checklists play a similar role to these things whether you are doing one job or multiple jobs. They are a helpful way to break down a project and have been proven to reduce errors and increase productivity.

Checklists will also make sure that you provide consistent and reliable service to each client or for each job. This will put you in good standing to be recommended for more work. Also, writing a checklist will help you devise a plan by creating a work sequence or separating a job into several smaller tasks. This will keep you organized and encourage productivity by giving you a sense of accomplishment as you progress through each work day.

Know Your Limits

It is important to have a realistic idea of how much work you can do in a day, week or month. There will be an amount that you can do that will be optimal for productivity and work-life balance. Knowing your limits is also a matter of safety. You do not want to be stressed out or overtired when you are working with machinery and doing precision woodwork.

Understanding how much work you are able to accomplish in a given amount of time will also help you guarantee that your work is of the highest quality. After all, you will want to prioritize applying the skills you worked hard to develop in cabinetmaking school for each project you do.

Use The Skills from Cabinetmaking Training to Focus

If you are thinking of becoming a cabinetmaker it is likely you are creative and detail oriented. In order to maintain a high level of detailed work, it is necessary to be able to focus. Of course, your capacity to focus will be greater if you have already engaged with the other strategies mentioned above.

The last thing you want is to be thinking about the materials for one project while you measure and cut pieces for another project. This can lead to mistakes or lower quality work. Juggling multiple tasks means that you are able to focus on the current task because you have set up a realistic plan to get your work done. Paying attention to the work in front of you will also let you enjoy the craft and your own creativity.

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Different types of electrodes, also known as rods, are categorized based on their material, diameter, coating and whether they are consumable or non-consumable. The most common type of rods are steel, which may be mild, low alloy, or stainless, but there are also bronze, aluminum, and composite welding rods. It is part of the welder’s job to decide on which type of rods to use for different projects. The material of the core wire of a rod will depend on the type of metal being welded, also referred to as the parent material.

In order to choose the right material and type of rod, a welder must know the differences between consumable and non-consumable electrodes.  Each is used for different applications and, with theoretical knowledge and hands on experience, a trained welder will know how to make these decisions to ensure quality welds.

First: a Few Basics of Welding Training

Before getting into the specifics of consumable and non-consumable electrodes it is important to set up some foundational points for your welding training. An understanding of what flux covering (or coating) is along with what a weld pool is, will give you a greater understanding of the main differences between consumable and non-consumable electrodes.

Flux coating is a layer of chemicals that covers the rod and burns off during welding. This produces an inert gas that protects the weld pool and solid metal from atmospheric contamination. Oxygen will weaken the bond of your joint and impurities in the weld pool can also cause problems. Typically, though not always, consumable rods have flux coating. Non-consumable electrodes usually do not, meaning they require the use of shielding gases.

The weld pool is the small coin-shaped part of a weld where the base metal is at its melting point. This is where a welder will either use filler material, in the case of non-consumable electrodes, or not use filler in the parent materials requiring consumable electrodes.

Consumable Electrodes

The key characteristics of consumable electrodes are the following: they have lower melting points, they are usually used in metal inert gas (MIG) welding, they are typically made of mild steel or nickel steel and they are used in arc welding. The lower melting point means that they melt away, or are consumed as the welder works. This also means that they have to be replaced on a regular basis.

There are four types of consumable electrodes if you are considering flux coating and they range from bare (no flux coating) to heavily coated. While there are even more variations in terms of the types of coating that may be used, overall, it is worth noting that consumable electrodes have fewer industry applications.

Non-Consumable Electrodes

As indicated by the name, non-consumable electrodes do not melt away in the process of welding. As a student in welding school you should know that non-consumables are made from materials with higher melting points. These materials include tungsten, carbon and graphite and although these materials will not be consumed during the weld, the rods may lose length due to vaporization and oxidation.

When using non-consumable electrodes a filler metal is necessary to make the weld pool. Shielding gases that would normally come from flux coating are also required to protect the welding area. Another factor to consider is that tungsten electrodes are more expensive than carbon or graphite electrodes. However, the choices you make will likely depend mainly on the parent materials.

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Cabinetmaking is a traditional craft, but with training and experience you will discover there is a lot of opportunity for your creativity to flourish within it. Making kitchen cabinets is one of the many ways to blend technical skills, knowledge, and personality into your cabinetmaking work.

The kitchen is one of the most versatile rooms in the house. Of course, people cook, but they also socialize, host dinners, and spend quality time with their family and friends in the kitchen. For many it is the room in the house that will be the most worn and torn.

That’s why there is a lot to think through before you start making cabinets to fit into the life of a kitchen. Here are a few tips to get started.

1. Manage Your Time and Client Expectations

After cabinetmaking school you will have a lot of opportunities to work with clients in different situations. It is always important to manage your time so that your clients know what to expect and when, but even more so if your clients are waiting to get back into their kitchen.

Discuss your plan with the client and ask lots of questions. How do they use the space? What do their dream cabinets look like? Are they looking to increase the value of their home in order to sell it in the near future? Answering these questions will help you devise a solid plan and an accurate estimate for your client so they know what to expect in terms of budget and time.

2. Use Your Cabinetmaking Training to Choose the Right Materials

An important aspect of the cabinetmaking trade is knowing how to identify and choose the right materials. Kitchen cabinet doors are sometimes made from laminate, which is a less expensive option, but it is likely you will be deciding between medium dense fiberboard (MDF), wood and plywood cabinets.

While this decision may be made by the client, with your cabinetmaking training you should be ready to give advice on their options. For example, if a client wants a stained wood look, then MDF should be avoided. But if they want to paint the cabinets a certain colour, MDF is likely the best choice. If there are any large doors in your cabinet design, it may be worthwhile to consider plywood, which is lighter and costs less than woods like maple.

Another set of choices to talk to clients about will be hardware and whether or not the cabinets will include things like a ‘Lazy Suzan’ or pantry pullouts. In all cases, make sure the hardware is durable because these are the moving parts that help keep a kitchen functional.

3. Plan an Efficient Installation

Before ordering materials take detailed notes of where things like plumbing, electrical outlets, and appliances are. Planning is essential to an efficient installation and there are cabinet making courses that include how to read blueprints and building layouts taught by experienced professional instructors.

In addition to the cabinet materials and hardware, make a plan for gaps. Walls are not always straight and floors are not always level so cabinet filler pieces or shims will come in handy. When you are ready to install, start high with the wall cabinets then move to the floor cabinets. By using a bench march and those filler pieces to keep everything on the level, you will be done in no time.

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In HVAC training you will learn about fasteners, tools, codes and regulations as well as other knowledge and skills that are required for the job. However, one skill that you should not overlook is time management. If you’re looking to break into the HVAC industry, managing your time effectively can help you succeed.

Time management skills allow you to stay on track and are the best way to prepare for unexpected circumstances. Managing your time effectively also keeps you calm and reduces your stress, so that you are able to work in a focused, effective manner. Read on for more about why time management will matter in your career in the HVAC industry!

Your HVAC Career Will Be Full of Surprises

A major benefit of managing time effectively is that it helps you account for unexpected emergencies, calls and problems. In a job where you are servicing equipment and appliances, you may be called in for an issue and arrive only to discover that the problem is larger than you originally assumed it would be. This adds time to your task and delays the rest of your schedule.

If you’ve organized your day to allow for last-minute changes or service calls that run longer than expected, you’ve given yourself plenty of extra time so that you can still complete your day’s schedule. That way, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to pick up a part or change your strategy, you’ll have enough wiggle room to do so.

Time Management Helps You Save on Travel

When you are working in an HVAC career, throughout your day you may be required to travel to multiple locations that are quite dispersed. The more time you spend on the road, the less you can get done. This may cause your schedule to run behind or may not be an economical use of resources such as fuel. If you’re working with a team, failing to coordinate locations can cause unnecessary travel amongst employees.

Learning how to plan days in a way that makes sense for travel helps you manage your schedule. Establishing the most direct routes between locations is also helpful to save on time and costs, while ensuring that all of your goals for the day are accomplished.

Time Management Keeps Your Stress Levels Down After HVAC College

When tasks go unfinished or jobs are rushed, the quality of your work isn’t something you are likely to be proud of. This can cause your stress levels to rise and reduce your job satisfaction. After you have your HVAC diploma, you will want to show your skills and knowledge and perform to the best of your abilities. Making sure you have enough time and planning to finish what you’ve started helps you stay focused and healthy for a long and rewarding career. This also keeps you from constantly feeling time pressure or fearing that you won’t finish your work, which is another major stressor.

Scheduling extra blocks in your schedule allows you to thoroughly inspect situations and consider solutions, rather than applying quick fixes that won’t last as long. Not only will this help you stay focused and calm, it will make you a more successful professional because your work will be top-notch.

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