OTOW Woodshop Mentor Program

History

The concept of mentor-based education for the OTOW woodshop is not new. In previous years, a less formal approach involving one or two leaders was able to meet the needs of inexperienced members. As the club has grown in the last few years, the need for more education has outpaced what a couple of members can provide informally. About a year ago, club leaders began discussing a formal mentor-based education program.

Progress

In early 2025, the OTOW woodshop introduced Mode 1 of the Mentor Program: a class of five mentor-led learning sessions to prototype the concept. Unlike previous sessions, this included building an item (a simple toolbox) as part of the class, requiring mentors to work closely with each participant. The pilot showed the original toolbox design was too complex, so it was simplified and the class was run four more times.

The program content, activities, and project complexity were adjusted based on class experiences to create a more efficient learning experience. The final class was extended to six sessions to allow for quality learning, and one-on-one mentoring proved essential. The approach was highly successful and well received, but required over 100 mentor-hours per group of six participants. Due to limited mentor availability, the class is now offered twice a year with a $25 fee to cover materials and dedicated cutters.

Modes 2 and 3 of the Mentoring Program are now being introduced. This page describes how all modes are structured and intended to work.

Note: The Shop Education Policy (Policy 6) has not been revised since 2019. While the objective of the educational program has not changed, the programs mentioned in the policy are no longer accurately described. It will be revised in the coming months as our new approaches mature.

Mentor Program Description

Mode 1 - Mentor-led Scheduled Learning Sessions

• All sessions are scheduled on the shop calendar so members can sign up.
• Build Class: One class of six sessions educates members in the use of power and hand tools while building a basic tool tote. Each class has 6 participants, runs about twice a year, and costs $30 per participant. The shop is closed to other activities during these sessions.
• Machine Specific Sessions: Mentor-led, three-hour sessions on various shop machines, including hands-on activity and producing a simple product. These are scheduled for Tuesday evenings (6–9pm), with about 6 participants per session. Five different sessions are offered about twice a quarter. The shop is closed to other activities during these sessions.
• Topic Lectures: Two-hour lectures on broad topics, mostly classroom-based with possible brief shop observation. These are offered about once a quarter and can accommodate up to 20 participants.

Mode 2 - In-The-Shop Spontaneous Advice and Assistance

• Some mentors have agreed to assist members while in the shop. These mentors wear a yellow badge that says “Can I Help You.” They can help with equipment use, operations, tool locations, wood selection, and more.

Mode 3 - Arranged Specific Skills Mentoring

• Some mentors are willing to share knowledge and instruct members on specific skills or techniques. This is intended for members who already have some woodworking experience and need help with a particular skill or process.
• Mentors cannot spend time on every step of a long-term project, but will help you learn a skill so you can proceed on your own. Respect their time and availability, and be willing to work around their schedules.
• Mentor areas of expertise and contact info are posted below. If you need mentoring, contact the mentor best suited to help. If they can’t help, they may suggest another mentor.
• There are no shop closings or public postings for these sessions.

Mentor Listing for Arranged Specific Skills Mentoring