Technical Skills

Joinery and construction skills focus on how pieces of wood are connected to create strong, accurate projects. These skills go beyond basic screws and glue and emphasize strength, alignment, and craftsmanship. Students choosing skills from this category will be expected to plan joints carefully and execute them accurately and safely. Most furniture, boxes, and structural projects rely heavily on these skills. 

Precision and accuracy skills focus on measuring, layout, and making consistent, repeatable cuts. These skills help ensure parts fit together properly and that projects are square, level, and professional-looking. Students selecting skills from this category will demonstrate careful setup, attention to detail, and control of tools. High-quality woodworking depends on accuracy at every stage of a build.

Shaping and design skills focus on changing the form of wood beyond straight cuts. These skills are used to create curves, profiles, decorative edges, and custom shapes that improve both function and appearance. Students choosing skills from this category will demonstrate control, planning, and attention to visual design. These skills are often used to personalize projects and make them unique.

Surface preparation and finishing skills focus on how a project looks and feels when it is complete. These skills include sanding strategies, surface preparation, and the selection and application of finishes. Students choosing skills from this category will show an understanding of how preparation affects final results. A well-built project can be ruined by poor finishing, making these skills essential.

Jigs, fixtures, and problem-solving skills focus on working smarter, safer, and more efficiently in the shop. These skills involve designing solutions to improve accuracy, repeatability, or safety during a build. Students choosing skills from this category will identify challenges and create tools or processes to overcome them. These skills reflect real-world woodworking and trade practices.

Design, planning, and documentation skills focus on thinking through a project before and during construction. These skills include drawings, cut lists, material planning, and sequencing operations. Students choosing skills from this category will demonstrate forethought and the ability to adapt plans as a project evolves. Strong planning leads to fewer mistakes and higher-quality results.