What kind of education do I need to work in the wood industry?

Many jobs are available with different levels of education. Some require only a high school diploma, while other positions require undergraduate and graduate college degrees.

Are there job opportunities available with a high school education?

Absolutely. High school guidance counselors should be able to provide you with literature and information on careers in this field. There is a wide variety of positions working in the wood products industry that require a high school diploma. Some high schools offer skilled trade programs in construction, woodworking, carpentry, or cabinet making. In addition, some trade associations offer training certification programs (NHLA, NWFA, APA, AWFS).

What college degrees do people have in the wood industry?

Degrees can be highly specialized in wood science, wood manufacturing technology, furniture design, packaging science or forestry. Degrees in business, marketing, and engineering are also common in the wood industry.

There are a number of colleges in the United States that offer degrees in wood science, wood technology, forestry, or forest products. Courses of study in these programs may include wood physics, wood chemistry, wood-fluid relationships, wood machinery, production management, and forest products marketing. Degree programs in chemistry, biology, physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, or civil engineering can also be very useful if combined with courses in wood science.

A master’s degree or doctorate is usually required for more advanced work, such as a researcher. Advanced studies include such topics as pulp and paper science, business administration, production management, and forestry-wood sciences.