Career comparison
Cabinetmaker vs. Wood Model Maker
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Wood model makers earn more at the median ($56,550 vs. $46,680), while cabinetmakers usually get to work faster (Months to years of training of training). Cabinetmakers build cabinets, furniture and custom woodwork. Wood model makers build precise wood models and prototypes for designers and engineers.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Cabinetmaker | Wood Model Maker | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $46,680 ($22.44/hr) | $56,550 ($27.19/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $35,650 – $63,720 | $34,800 – $98,050 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | -2.9% (a projected decline) | -3.3% (a projected decline) |
| Openings per year | 6,900 | 100 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training time | Months to years of training | Months to years of practice |
| Key credential | WCA credentials | Woodworking certificate |
| Work setting | Cabinetmakers work in shops and at install sites.. | Model makers work in model shops, design firms and studios.. |
What each job does
Cabinetmaker
- Read shop drawings
- Cut parts
- Machine joinery
- Assemble cabinets
- Build doors and drawers
Wood Model Maker
- Read drawings
- Build models
- Machine wood parts
- Use CNC and laser cutters
- Finish models
How they’re similar
Both careers involve hands-on work, creative work, indoor work, and working independently. They sit in different fields, skilled trades & construction and mechanics, maintenance & manufacturing, but share transferable skills such as precision and creativity.
Which should you choose?
Choose cabinetmaker if…
- I love woodworking
- I’m precise
- I like design
Choose wood model maker if…
- I love building models
- I’m creative
- I’m precise
Still torn? Take the Cabinetmaker fit quiz and the Wood Model Maker fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, cabinetmaker or wood model maker?
Wood Model Makers earn more at the median: $56,550 versus $46,680 for cabinetmakers, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Cabinetmakers typically train faster (Months to years of training) than wood model makers (Months to years of practice).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects cabinetmakers to grow -2.9% from 2025–35, compared with -3.3% for wood model makers.