The Skills Required To Work In The Woodworking Industry

For anyone who is really creative, enjoys working with their hands and can handle a range of power tools, then a career within the woodworking industry may seem the right way forward. This is a profession that demands technical precision, sometimes physical strength and even mathematical skills in order to create wonderful objects from wood. 

In addition to holding the necessary qualifications that show you have the skills to deal with the type of work required within the woodworking industry, there are also a number of soft, or transferable skills that are also required. 

Maths in woodworking

A larger part of the role may well entail the designing of items, being able to interpret blueprints and project plans. These are both tasks that will require a good understanding of maths. This may be in order to estimate the number of required materials or even to ensure you are sticking to a budget. Basic geometry is necessary to interpret project outlines and ensure measurements are accurate. 

Problem solving

These skills are necessary in order to handle any challenges that you might face during the production phase. These challenges may include delays in the delivery of materials, issues with budgets, and even a lack of materials. Problem-solving skills will allow you to find solutions and also explain issues to the client you are working for. Critical thinking may also help to see potential issues before they occur and also find ways around them. A customer is more likely to be accepting of an issue when also offered a potential solution. 

Physical strength and stamina

There are some aspects of a role in woodworking that may require a person to be physically fit. Many of the materials you could be working with will be heavy and the tools will require both strength and stamina to use for prolonged periods of time. A role may also involve a lot of bending, climbing and standing for greater periods of time. 

Dexterity

Training and regular practice can certainly help with this skill. Being dexterous means that you will be able to use your hands to perform detailed and intricate tasks like shaping smaller pieces of wood, connecting finished elements and even painting or staining the finished product. Dexterity is also one of those skills that potential employers often outline when looking to fill a vacancy.

Communication 

Finally, effective communication is an essential soft skill that most employers look for in potential employees. Within the field of woodworking this might be used to explain designs to colleagues or customers. Listening is an essential skill under the communication bracket, and it is essential for the collection of feedback for that the needs of a client are met and that the item that is made fully fits the brief of any specific requirements that they might have. Being able to explain some of the more technical details of a design in easy to understand terms for a client may also be useful.