AWI introduces new “Drafting Concepts to Production” course to enhance workforce training

Published on March 4, 2026 Time: loading...

The Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) has unveiled its newest offering in workforce development, the “Drafting Concepts to Production” course. This course is part of the expanding AWI Industry Solutions (AWI iS) training program, which aims to provide woodworking professionals, students, and enthusiasts with foundational skills in the art of architectural drafting and production.

This newly launched course delves into the essential concepts of drafting, offering users an in-depth look at how drawings and designs are translated into tangible, functional wood products. Designed for both students and industry professionals, this course provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of drafting and engineering with a focus on practical, hands-on learning.

What You Will Learn

The course content spans several key areas critical to the success of any woodworking project. “Drafting Concepts to Production” covers:

Introduction to Drafting Concepts
Learn the basic principles of drafting and how they apply to the woodworking industry.
Exploring Architectural Drawings
A look at architectural drawings and their importance in the production process.
Common Drafting Symbols
Understand the various symbols used in drafting and their meanings in woodwork.
Exploring Submittal Drawings
Gain insight into the process of submitting designs and drawings for approval.
Thinking Like an Engineer
This segment helps students adopt an engineer’s mindset when approaching woodwork projects.
Drawings to Material
Learn how to convert technical drawings into materials needed for production.
Why It Matters
Discover the real-world significance of drafting in architectural woodwork.

Expert Input Drives Course Design

The development of this course was made possible through the efforts of Jeff Richard, a millwork engineer and the Technical Chair for the SkillsUSA Texas Cabinetmaking Contest. Richard’s expertise in woodworking and his commitment to education were instrumental in shaping the course to ensure it provides valuable, industry-relevant content.

“‘Drafting Concepts to Production’ serves as a quick engineering crash course for students and industry professionals,” said Doug Hague, CEO of AWI. “This new course is available for free to all AWI iS users and will continue to evolve from basic to more complex details going forward, providing students with a dynamic and growing learning experience.”

Revolutionizing Woodworking Education

The launch of this course is part of a larger initiative by AWI to address the workforce challenges faced by the architectural woodwork industry. AWI Industry Solutions (AWI iS) was introduced in September 2023 to offer a more flexible and targeted training solution for woodworkers at all stages of their careers. This program also includes the “Principles of Woodworking” course, which consists of 17 units, 61 professionally produced videos, interactive quizzes, and a final exam. Successful completion of this course awards students with a credible industry certification, which is increasingly becoming a valuable asset in the woodworking field.

Since its launch, AWI iS has gained significant traction, with over 2,000 users and 437 certifications awarded to individuals who have successfully completed the Principles of Woodworking course. Additionally, the program is available in both English and Spanish, ensuring broader accessibility for woodworking professionals across various demographics.

Empowering Employers and Employees

AWI iS is transforming how woodworking skills are learned and applied. One of the standout features of the platform is the Microsites tool, recently introduced to help employers manage their training programs. This feature enables businesses to easily track employee progress, enroll users in specific courses, and even supplement the program with their own tailored content.

With the growing demand for skilled woodworkers and technical professionals, AWI iS is helping companies improve employee skill levels, reduce training costs, and provide a more customized learning experience that aligns with their unique needs. It’s a forward-thinking solution that not only enhances individual careers but also strengthens the industry as a whole.

A Bright Future for Woodworking Education

As AWI continues to evolve its training programs, the introduction of the “Drafting Concepts to Production” course marks a significant step toward bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the woodworking industry. With free access to this course and the ongoing development of more advanced training modules, AWI is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of skilled woodworking professionals.

To learn more about the Drafting Concepts to Production course or explore other AWI iS resources, visit the AWI Education Portal at awinet.org/education/is. For any questions regarding the program, AWI Product Manager Sean Heger can be contacted at [email protected].