Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

I’m inspired by skilled artisans who make complex work look effortless. Watching experienced carpenters solve problems with ingenuity has shaped how I approach my own work. I’m also fascinated by the evolution of tools and jigs that improve the craft. I’ve always enjoyed building my own jigs, and one day I hope to design products that help other woodworkers improve their process.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by continuing to move forward even on difficult days. Living with an autoimmune condition means I don’t always know how my body will respond. Some days I can work long hours and other days I need time to recover. I’ve learned that keeping my body moving and my mind challenged helps me stay strong. If I become stagnant it becomes much harder to start again, so I focus on steady progress whenever I’m able.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest the $25,000 into newer, safer equipment and shop improvements that make the work more efficient. It would also allow me to create a small space in the shop to rest when needed. As the business grows, it would help me bring on people who want to learn the craft. Skilled woodworking is becoming rarer, and passing those skills to the next generation is important to me.