*Done with Grey & Ivy Inc.

In 2024, I led the development of a new 6,000 sq. ft. training facility for Washagamis Bay First Nation in Northwestern Ontario. Starting with an empty concrete box on a beautiful sprawling property along a major highway, the project was to build out a fully operational shop space and training facility from scratch. Working alongside a training cohort from the community, we planned the layout, established operational and safety protocols, and procured and set up new tools and equipment. We also constructed essential shop furnishings, including workbenches, acoustic panels, storage units, and cubbies.

The project was about more than just building a functional shop—it was about creating a sustainable training space where community members could develop carpentry and construction skills. A major focus was ensuring the shop could support future projects, including the construction of community infrastructure and housing. The work helped establish a foundation for ongoing skills development and capacity building within the community, while keeping focused on creating an inclusive and active space.