About US

Mission Statement

(What We Do Now)

To empower individuals, particularly veterans, and those with mental health and mobility challenges through the art of woodworking, providing high-quality Roman workbenches, tools, and comprehensive instruction. We foster creativity, personal growth, and mental well-being through the therapeutic benefits of traditional craftsmanship.

Vision Statement

(Where Are We Going?)

To be a leading provider of accessible woodworking solutions and education, transforming lives by integrating traditional craftsmanship with therapeutic practices. We envision a future where woodworking serves as a means for personal growth, mental health support, and community building, particularly among veterans.

My Story

Ryan Barnard is a veteran who has transformed personal challenges into a meaningful mission. After graduating high school in 2003, he enlisted in the Army and served two combat deployments to Iraq. During his service, Ryan sustained traumatic brain injuries that resulted in significant physical and mental health challenges.

Military Service and Transition

Ryan dedicated 17.5 years to military service, ultimately being medically retired in December 2020. Following his retirement, he relocated to San Antonio, Texas, with his family, where he began a comprehensive journey of medical treatment and personal recovery.

Healing Through Woodworking

Discovering woodworking became a pivotal point in Ryan's healing process. Using hand-tool woodworking, he developed a therapeutic approach to managing symptoms of Anxiety, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Depression. The craft provided him with multiple psychological benefits:

• Healthy and Productive Activity

• Serotonin Boost through a soothing activity

• Biofeedback

• Mindfulness Activities

• Sense of Accomplishment

• Creative Problem-Solving

• Community Connection

Professional Mission

Ryan transformed his healing experience into a professional mission. His woodworking business now focuses on:

• Hand tool instruction for mental health management

• Creating specialized workbenches for individuals with mobility challenges

• Selling woodworking tools and equipment

Through his work, Ryan not only manages his own mental health but also provides a supportive pathway for other veterans and individuals struggling with similar challenges.