Cabinetmaking CTE classes prepare students for professional world

The cabinetmaking career and technical education program gives students hands-on training in woodworking while introducing them to the expectations of a professional shop.

Offered at Highland High School and Mesquite High School, the multiyear program blends technical skills with real-world applications.

Students begin their first year with foundational training, using automated cutting machines to complete laser-based projects and small furniture pieces.

The early coursework is designed to help students adjust to a shop environment as they move from basic assembly to more advanced techniques.

In the second year, instruction shifts toward industry standards. Students earn their OSHA 10 certification, a national credential that demonstrates their ability to work safely in high‑risk environments.

Although cabinetmaking is structured as a two‑year program, a third‑year course is available. Students who continue are expected to interpret detailed blueprints and work within real-world constraints. They also learn to operate a lathe and explore materials such as epoxy and glass.

“This is a class where students get hands-on applications of real-world learning to solve real-world problems,” said Chris Askew, the cabinetmaking teacher at Highland High. “Everything is done through a strong focus on safety, and students are introduced to career opportunities they can take with them down the road.”

The curriculum also includes lessons in financial literacy and project management. Each assignment is treated like a professional contract, requiring students to calculate costs and budget materials.

Program leaders say these skills support future careers in general contracting, architecture and project management.

“Every project includes costs and calculations, so you learn how to budget and plan," Highland High School senior Lucas Martin said. "That’s going to help later in life, not just in this class."

Students also learn communication and teamwork. One junior in the program said collaboration is a constant part of the shop environment.

“You’re talking with your peers a lot to make sure everything is OK and everyone is safe,” the student said.

CTE programs across the Gilbert Public Schools district are designed to prepare students for life after graduation. District data shows CTE participants have a 97.4% graduation rate, and 75% of graduates find work in a field related to their program within six months.

The cabinetmaking program introduces students to multiple pathways, including architecture, custom fabrication and other skilled trades.

More information about cabinetmaking and the district’s 21 other CTE programs is available at GilbertSchools.net/CTE, including course offerings, campus locations and academic planning resources.