Antique Post Office Box class participants and instructors: Jack Ackerman, Mike Inderhess, Maria Rudolph, Lorraine Wilson, Boyce Irwin, Scott Lebsack; not pictured: Michelle Crissey, Teresa McGill, John Richards
Lorraine Wilson
The Robson Ranch Woodshop has been bustling with activity, offering a variety of training classes for woodworkers at all skill levels. From mandatory safety courses to specialized woodworking techniques, experienced instructors have been guiding members through hands-on learning sessions.
Safety remains a top priority for the club, with multiple classes ensuring that new members understand proper machine operation. On Feb. 8 Scott Lebsack led a safety class for new members with a second session on March 8, instructed by Bob Duda. Two more safety classes were held on March 29 and April 12 with Mike Riewe as the instructor. All new members must complete a safety class before using the shop, regardless of prior experience.
Training classes kicked off in February with expert instruction from seasoned woodworkers. Bob Duda introduced participants to the proper use of power sanders, emphasizing the importance of clean-up. Greg Kohn followed with a jointer and planer class for beginners and intermediate users, with another session on March 26.
Loren Christensen led a pen-turning class, demonstrating techniques for using small Jet lathes. Participants worked alongside pen mentors to craft their own Slimline and Saturn pens. On Feb. 22 Dave Popejoy conducted two separate sessions on the safe use of power band saws, including a lesson on using a jig to cut circles. Later that month, on Feb. 28, Mike Riewe instructed members on operating SawStop and Grizzly table saws, with a second session held on March 11.
Classes continued into March with a focus on various woodworking tools. On March 1 Dave Popejoy led a class on the use of sleds on the table saws and band saws. Larry Ditch led a session on miter saws and drill presses on March 4, with another class on April 1. Greg Hennings provided training for new monitors on March 12, welcoming Larry Milligan and Bill Hase to their new roles. Frank Hunter conducted a beginner and intermediate router class on March 13, with a follow-up session on April 3.
The club’s extensive training efforts are coordinated by Mark Freeman who arranges for instructors and collaborates with Steve Russell to schedule sessions on the club website.
In addition to foundational training, the club also offers specialized classes. On March 19 Boyce Irwin, Jack Ackerman, and Scott Lebsack led an Antique Post Office Box class for six intermediate woodworkers. A three-session cutting board class for beginners was held on March 30, led by Michelle Crissey, Teresa McGill, and Lorraine Wilson who guided seven women woodworkers.
The success of these training programs is made possible by the dedicated instructors who volunteer their time and expertise. Their commitment ensures that new and experienced members alike can develop their woodworking skills in a safe and supportive environment.