CONESTOGA COLLEGE
Woodworking showcase features projects designed, created by graduating students

Graduates of Conestoga's Woodworking Technician program displayed their capstone projects at a showcase held in the Woodworking Centre of Ontario at the Kitchener - Doon campus.

Industry sponsors FS Tool and Rampa Tec joined the April 16 showcase and presented awards for the top projects designed and constructed by second-year students.

The event is not only a proud moment for students, said professor Richard Bruckeder. "The faculty and support staff are immensely proud to witness the students' success and achievements."

First place: Samantha Stamp 

Stamp crafted a console cabinet from walnut with three drawers, two cupboards and a shelf.

"I wanted to make it so you can put it pretty much anywhere," Stamp said.

Picking what she likes best about the project was more difficult for Stamp than creating it: "Everything."

"I like how it came out. It was very rewarding."

Bruckeder said Stamp didn't hold back on the details, opting for high-end door hinges and drawer mechanisms, and expertly crafting the doors with a five-piece construction and central panel for both elegance and functionality.

"A lot of thought and care went into every aspect of this furniture," he said.

Second place: Jesse Koonstra

Koonstra crafted a dresser with four large drawers in oak.

The time and skill in creating the dresser was evident, Bruckeder said. "As a capstone project, it showcases meticulous craftsmanship in oak. The sides feature handmade mitred stiles and rails, and the drawers feature precisely aligned dovetail joints.

"Every element of this dresser reflects the care and expertise invested in its creation, making it a standout addition and a keepsake for life," Bruckeder said.

Third place: Kwok Kit Lam

Lam created a multifunctional Chinese games table in oak and cherry. The versatile table for a variety of games that allows players to sit or stand is "a true marvel of craftsmanship and precision," Bruckeder said. "This game table is not just a piece of furniture. It's a showcase of skill and dedication, making it a standout addition to any game room or man cave."

Lam also received the Ramp Tec Design Award for best drawings and concepts.

The Woodworking Centre of Ontario is among North America's leading training centres for woodworking. This respected and renowned institution established in 1988 has produced countless industry leaders and talented craftspeople who have gone on to have fulfilling careers in the woodworking trade.

Conestoga offers several woodworking programs at the centre: Woodworking Technology, Woodworking Technician, Woodworking Techniques and Cabinetmaker.