In this episode of Verify In Field, host Jacob Edmond continues the conversation with Chris McClelland, Principal of Parliament Millwork, diving deep into CNC adoption, millwork software, and what it really takes to modernize a shop.
Chris shares the realities of moving from panel saw production to CNC manufacturing, and how that shift unlocked the time and capacity required to scale properly. He walks through his journey from eCabinets to Mozaik, the frustrations of software limitations, and the discipline required to truly learn a platform rather than fight it.
Together, Jacob and Chris unpack one of the most debated topics in millwork today, Mozaik versus Microvellum versus Cabinet Vision. Instead of marketing language, they discuss workflow, community support, user base differences, CAD first versus library first systems, and the practical implications for growing shops.
Chris explains how investing in a CNC was not just about automation, but about buying back time. He reflects on the importance of structured learning, including the Cadmate training path, and how understanding parameters and hierarchy changed how his shop operates.
This episode is not just about software. It is about mindset. It is about committing to modernization and accepting that growth requires discomfort.
About Our Guest
Chris McClelland is the Principal of Parliament Millwork, a dedicated millwork shop serving the Ottawa market.
After transitioning from general contracting into full scale manufacturing, Chris invested in a Thermwood CNC and evolved his workflow from entry level CAM solutions to a fully customized Mozaik library. His approach blends entrepreneurial risk tolerance with disciplined systems building.
Today, he focuses on production efficiency, parameter driven design, and building a shop that can scale intentionally.
Where To Learn More
Parliament Millwork
https://parliamentmillwork.com
Parliament Milwork´s Instagram: @parliamentmillwork
What You Will Learn
- Why buying service matters more than buying the machine.
- How CNC investment changes shop output and owner capacity.
- The limitations of entry level CAM software and when they become restrictive.
- Why understanding software hierarchy and parameters is critical.
- The real differences between Mozaik, Microvellum, and Cabinet Vision.
- How community support influences software success.
- The role of structured training in accelerating mastery.
- Why no single software solves everything.
- How automation frees owners to focus on growth.
- Why modern millwork shops cannot ignore CNC technology.
Final Thoughts
Chris makes one thing clear. Modern millwork requires modern systems.
CNC is no longer optional for production shops. Software is no longer a luxury. Growth does not happen by accident.
The shops that scale are the ones willing to endure the learning curve, invest in tools before they feel fully ready, and accept that mistakes are part of progress.
If you are serious about production, you cannot afford to stay analog.
