FutureCast: SCH Woodshop Innovates with New CNC Technology

SCH’s woodshop is buzzing with new possibilities thanks to a recent innovation grant secured by Paper Buck, who joined the faculty as a woodshop, painting, and drawing teacher last fall and is featured on the latest FutureCast episode. Buck is a strong advocate for the integration of traditional craft skills with contemporary technological processes.

“I really value the traditional skills,” says Buck, “but there are certain things that are really difficult to do without some of the contemporary technology.”

The grant enabled SCH to acquire a CNC machine, a powerful tool that allows students to bridge the gap between digital design and physical creation. With the CNC machine, students can now design projects on a computer and then precisely etch text, engrave intricate images, and even utilize halftone dot patterns to bring their visions to life on wood.

Already, students are putting the new technology to good use, with projects like a wooden mancala game and beautifully engraved cutting boards showcasing the machine's capabilities. While learning to operate new tech presents its challenges, Buck emphasizes the immense benefits it offers. It "really expands the horizon of how you can build," they note, opening up a world of new creative possibilities for SCH students.

Listen to the episode!