Building on the Past

In this episode, I speak with Shawn Thomson a heritage carpenter and long-time instructor at the Heritage Institute in Perth Ontario.  Shawn has a successful career that covers historic building repair, heritage restoration, and more than 15 years of teaching. Shawn tells us how he left cubicle life behind, found the Heritage Carpentry program, and never looked back. Shawn shares his perspectives...

Building on the Past is a podcast for anyone ready to ditch the desk and build something real. Dive into the world of heritage carpentry where skill, history, and purpose come together. Hear from the craftspeople restoring buildings, reviving lost techniques, and finding meaning in hands-on work. If you’re tired of pushing paper and want to shape something that lasts, it’s time to start Building o...

This episodes guest is Jack Hollinger, Program Coordinator and Instructor at the Heritage Institute in Perth, Ontario, Canada. We discuss pathways into the Heritage Carpentry Program, the importance of being in the moment and using all of your senses when working, and whether you need to have extensive woodworking experience to succeed (you don't!). If you have questions for Jack about the Heritag...

After 20 years in a frustrating government job, I went back to school to become a Heritage Carpenter. This is my journey from the cubicle to the workbench and the classroom.  If you've ever considered a shift from your current career path to Heritage Trades, this episode will give you something to build on.