Holloman Wood Shop: more than a hobby

  • Published
  • By Airman Alexis P. Docherty
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs

(Editor's note: Last names are being withheld due to operational requirements.)

Sawdust slips into the stagnant air as an electric table saw cuts a redwood board in two. The powdery wood particles are momentarily suspended mid-air before spiraling down onto a cement floor.

A man dressed in a hunter green button-down and a pair of creased leather boots cradles the butt-end of the board. He continues to push it through the blade as sawdust collects in a pile at his feet.

The 49th Force Support Squadron Arts & Crafts Center is located adjacent to the Hobby Shop and the Shifting Sands Dining Facility. The center hosts several creative workshops, ranging from ceramics to woodworking. 

The Wood Shop is open to craftsmen and hobbyists of all skill levels every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from 3-6 p.m. To utilize the shop, Airmen and civilians must take a Wood Shop certification course. The certification costs $30 and is offered to people age 18 and up. The training provides operational and safety instruction on the facility’s equipment.   

“We go through all of the different machines in the shop, on safe operation and what to do and what not to do,” said Joe, the 49th FSS Wood Shop supervisor. “You need to be checked out on each individual machine before you start to work on a project.”

After becoming certified, craftsmen and hobbyists can utilize the shop’s equipment to work on personal projects.

“I don’t normally try to do stuff for people unless it’s critical and they want to know how it’s done,” said Joe. “It’s a hobby shop, not a production shop. I don’t build things to sell, this shop is not designed for that. I cannot charge you for doing something, and you cannot offer to pay me for doing something. It’s designed so that you as Airmen can come build or repair something. Whatever you’ve got in mind, I’m here to help you.”

Experienced staff members are available to offer guidance to anyone in need of help or mentorship.  

“I’ve been coming here to the Wood Shop for about four or five months now,” said Master Sgt. Joshua, the 9th Attack Squadron superintendent. “I started coming to make a headset holder for the headset I wear whenever I’m in flight. The staff here are very helpful and very personable. I don’t have the most experience working with wood, but whenever I come here, I never feel that I’m being looked at as the “rookie”. If I’m doing something, and there’s a better way of doing it, Mr. Joe is very helpful.”

The Wood Shop is in need of more Airmen. Whether they’re woodwork beginners interested in learning the craft or seasoned craftsmen wanting to fine-tune their skills, everyone is welcome.

“I would love more Airmen to come,” said Joe. “The equipment here is great. I just need more people. I need more people to make it justifiable to keep it going.”