27 Tools of the Trade | Wood Science Technology
Saw, tape measure, collection of bright yellow bits. The smell of fresh-cut pine and the CNC router humming in the background. Don’t forget the safety glasses. Coffee thermos and red flannel are optional. These are all tools of the trade for a full day’s work. Whether you’re operating powerful precision machines, making cabinetry, or dreaming of life spent outdoors as a forester, Kirtland has you covered.
Tools of the Trade
A career in wood science technology can be yours in nine months. We’ve worked with industry leaders to develop a curriculum that will place you in a high-paying career where you’ll work hands-on with the tools pictured above. If you can’t identify all 27 of the #toolsofthetrade on your own yet, we’ve provided a cheat sheet below, consider it a prerequisite to Machine Woodworking Lab I:
- Hand Saw
- Wooden Handscrew Clamp
- Paste Wax
- Edgeband Samples
- Bead/cove Router Bits
- Universal Square Measuring Layout Tool
- Work Gloves
- Filson Tin Cloth Wax
- Tool Bag
- Pencils
- Detroit Grooming Co. Beard Wax
- 8″ Dado Blade
- Push Block
- Jacket and Flannel
- Spring Clamp
- Tung Oil
- Bar Clamp
- Butcher Block Samples
- Aluminum Quick/Speed Square
- Balsa Wood Plane
- Assorted Router Bits
- Tape Measure
- Safety Glasses
- Hardwood Veneer Samples
- Thermos
- Hat
- Machine Woodworking Lab I Textbook
Learn how to use the tools from an industry expert. Department head, Randi Dodgson, is an industrial designer with eight years of manufacturing experience, including five years in furniture manufacturing. She also holds two design patents for wood products, and is always excited to try out new projects on the machines. Randi’s real-life experience in the field and passion for the industry is truly unmatched, giving you a glimpse into what a career will look like for you after you finish the program.
Kirtand’s Forest Products Institute is Located in the Heart of Northern Michigan
You’ll be learning in Kirtland’s state-of-the-art Michigan Forest Product Institute (MFPI) located on the main campus (complete with a grille and a Biggby Coffee shop opening soon).
Due to the nature of the accelerated program, you’ll start right away with hands-on learning in lecture and lab, first with the basics like wood grain, adhesives and safety protocols, and later learning how to read blueprints from engineers and operate large machines like the CNC router.
The MFPI was constructed barely two years ago and was designed intentionally to accommodate a breadth of tools and room for creativity. The cutting-edge learning space is equipped with top-of-the-line safety equipment and state-of-the-art technology and ventilation systems. Say goodbye to sawdust and hello to opportunity.
Other Career Paths are Available
We’ve worked with industry leaders to build relationships that lead to career paths with major players in the industry like Aracuo and Weyerhaeuser after graduation. Career opportunities are also available in construction, carpentry, cabinetry, woodworking and forestry. With hands-on experience and a certificate in wood science technology, you’ll have the know-how to build your own future. Positions are nationwide, so you’re not limited to the Great Lakes State. Grab your safety glasses and learn more about Wood Science Technology at Kirtland Community College.
