Dave Popejoy and Greg Kohn
Lorraine Wilson
In the heart of the Robson Ranch woodworking community, a transformation is taking place, driven by the vision and dedication of one member, Greg Kohn. It all began with a simple idea born from a cluttered workshop. Greg, surveying the chaos of shelves overflowing with tools like sleds, miter gauges, and jigs, saw a need for order and efficiency. Many club members were unsure as to which machine these tools belonged, let alone how to use them effectively.
Greg’s vision didn’t stop at mere observation. He drafted a plan, a blueprint for a better workshop. This plan, once submitted to the board, sparked discussions that ultimately led to its approval. However, materializing this vision required more than just approval—it required action.
Enter Lori Coffman, a generous member who donated the majority of the wood needed for the shelving project. With materials secured and supplies purchased, the pivotal task remained: constructing the shelves. Greg Kohn, alongside Shop Manager Dave Popejoy, accepted this challenge with enthusiasm.
The first phase of the project involved clearing out the old shelves, making way for the new. Smaller tools found their new homes closer to their respective equipment, a small but significant step in enhancing workflow efficiency. Each sled, jig, and miter gauge is in the process of being meticulously labeled, ensuring no confusion in their usage.
With the groundwork laid, Greg and Dave swiftly built sturdy, functional shelves, organizing the tools systematically. Frequently used items found their place on lower shelves for easy access, streamlining the work process.
However, new shelves were the culmination of Greg’s idea. Previously, the club recognized the importance of empowering its members with knowledge. Mark Freeman scheduled a series of classes focusing on tool usage. Mike Riewe led a session on jigs and sleds for table saws, which was attended by more than 20 eager learners. Dave Popejoy’s class on bandsaw jigs and sleds was another hit, demonstrating the community’s hunger for skill enhancement. Mike Soltwisch had another well-attended class on using sleds for the drill press. Steve Simececk’s router class also drew enthusiastic participation. These classes are paving the way for future learning opportunities.
Looking ahead, the Woodworking Club is committed to providing ongoing training, ensuring members master the art of using jigs, sleds, and miter gauges effectively. This transformative journey reflects the spirit of collaboration and continuous improvement that defines our Robson Ranch woodshop community.