Lorraine Wilson
Excitement is building in the woodshop as the new year gets underway, with a full calendar of training sessions, hands-on classes, and new initiatives designed to support both new and experienced woodworkers. From machine training to creative project classes, the Woodworkers Club is setting the stage for a productive and engaging year.
Each month brings multiple opportunities to learn and build skills. Vice President Michelle Crissey and Training Coordinator Mark Freeman are hard at work coordinating instructors and scheduling machine training sessions to meet the growing demand. January’s offerings include essential machine safety and operation classes such as Planer/Jointer Training, Table Saw Training, and Drill Press Training—key courses for anyone looking to work confidently and safely in the shop.
Beyond machine training, a wide variety of project-based and skill-building classes are also on the schedule. Members can look forward to a Pen class, Clamping and Gluing class, Beginner Cutting Board class, and a Sanding and Finishing class. These sessions are designed to help woodworkers expand their skills while completing practical and creative projects they can take home and enjoy.
One of the newest events was the Project Exhibit on Feb. 4. Experienced woodworkers displayed samples of their completed projects, offering inspiration and insight into what can be accomplished in the shop. Members were encouraged to attend, gather ideas for future projects, and learn about upcoming project classes. For newer members especially, the exhibit provided a valuable opportunity to see what’s possible and connect with fellow woodworkers.
The Woodworkers Club welcomes new members throughout the year. Anyone interested in joining can visit rrww.club, click on “Join the Club!,” and follow the instructions to enter their information. All potential members are required to attend a safety class before joining and using the shop. Once contact information is submitted, prospective members will be notified of upcoming safety classes, which are typically held once a month on Saturday afternoons and taught by highly experienced woodworkers.
Safety and smooth operation of the shop depend heavily on monitors who ensure the shop remains a safe environment for everyone. While the club currently has 67 trained monitors, additional volunteers are always needed to keep up with demand. Without a monitor on duty, the shop cannot open. New monitor training classes are held at least quarterly, and members are encouraged to consider volunteering to support the shop and their fellow woodworkers. Monitor forums, where monitors learn useful skills in how to become better monitors, are scheduled regularly.
Adding to the momentum, the shop is also undergoing a reorganization of its shelving system for jigs and equipment accessories. A committee is working to condense and reorganize the shelves, clearly labeling items by number and color to match the machines they support. Plans include creating a reference manual with photos, usage descriptions, and QR codes linking to instructional videos and additional resources.
With training, teamwork, and thoughtful improvements underway, it is shaping up to be an outstanding year in the woodshop—one filled with learning, creativity, and community.