Updated platform combines Passport Credentialing System tracking, online testing, e-commerce, and administrative reporting for woodworking education and training. LINCOLN, Neb. — The Woodwork Career Alliance (WCA) has launched an updated Passport Registry that combines key administrative and training tools into a single platform for woodworking programs, students, and manufacturers. The updated registry functions as WCA’s […]
The Woodwork Career Alliance was recently featured in an article published by WCA Gold Sponsor Woodcraft Supply, titled “Supporting Future Makers: How to Get Kids Interested in Woodworking.” The article highlights how inspiring future woodworkers begins right in our own communities. From parents inviting kids into the shop to local businesses providing materials, mentorship, and […]
From June 1–5, 2026, a large swath of the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta transformed into a bustling arena for the 2026 SkillsUSA National Championships. The Cabinetmaking Competition pitted postsecondary and high school winners from states throughout the nation. This year’s intense competition tasked students with building a challenging veneered cabinet designed by Kent […]
America is undergoing a significant demographic shift in its workforce. We have experienced major labor-force transitions before, including the movement of millions of Americans from farms to factories and cities, the labor demands created by World War II, and the entry of the Baby Boom generation into the workforce. Today, we face the other side […]
The Architectural Woodwork Institute Education Foundation will begin accepting nominations for its annual scholarship program on November 1. The scholarships are designed to support passionate students pursuing excellence in the woodworking industry. By offering scholarships, the Architectural Woodwork Institute Education Foundation (AWIEF) helps to: Promote Excellence: Recognizing and supporting students who showcase exceptional skills and […]
The Architectural Woodwork Institute Education Foundation (AWIEF) began accepting applications for its 2027 Academic Grant Program on October 1. Each year, the AWIEF provides up to $100,000 to educational institutions with a vision to disburse $1,000,000 over the next decade. Last year the AWIEF awarded more than $180,000 to 26 woodworking programs. The AWIEF prioritizes […]
The Association of Woodworking & Furniture Suppliers is accepting entries for Design-it-Digital, an online student design competition, through November 1. Students are presented with a hypothetical scenario in which a client is asking for a specific piece of wood furniture and/or case goods with certain constraints given. Students design their solution using CAD and rendering […]
Major financial backing from WIA will fuel high school and college technical programs, delivering a new generation of credentialed, job-ready talent to the woodworking industry. FOREST HILL, Md., and GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The woodworking and cabinetmaking industry’s workforce shortage isn’t new — but a comprehensive, nationwide solution finally is. The Wood Industry Association (WIA) […]
Two woodworking instructors affiliated with the Woodwork Career Alliance were recognized in Woodworking Network’s annual 40 Under 40 awards program. Avery Pipkin, woodworking teacher at Cedar Ridge High School in North Carolina, and Bobby Miller, woodshop teacher Coon Rapids High School in Minnesota, were honored for making an impact at their respective schools to teach […]
2026 is shaping up as another outstanding year for the Woodwork Career Alliance! We have already enrolled 1,131 new candidates in the Passport Credentialing Program. In addition, we have awarded 1,202 credentials within our various skill levels. Our EDUcation memberships are maintaining a level rate, and our MANufacturing memberships are increasing at a steady pace. […]