Mindy Chen PC ’14

October 14, 2017

Mindy Chen

By halfway through my college experience, I already knew I was not going to use my graphic design degree and that I was destined to do something that involved craftsmanship and working with my hands.

91Âé¶¹¾«Æ·reet School was the obvious answer to my new career ambitions, but it felt out of reach after graduation. So, I spent five years in New York City trying out different aspects of woodworking and construction services to forge my own path towards becoming a woodworker/carpenter. I learned a lot and gained valuable experience, but I also realized that I was lacking a strong foundation to support my new skills. I needed good ol’ formal education. So here I am, tying it all together.

Before, I appreciated old buildings; now, I can help preserve or restore them.

Before, I could draft on the computer; now, I can draft by hand, too.
Before, I read everything about dovetail joints; now, I can make them using various methods.
Before, I could mill wood using a machine shop; now, I own and know how to use hand tools to mill wood, as well.
Before, I appreciated old buildings; now, I can help preserve or restore them.