About me
Orrin’s path to boatbuilding was shaped by a lifelong passion for working with his hands. Before finding wooden boats, he built custom homes, worked with timber framing, cabinetry, and furniture, and honed his skills in high-end residential construction and finish carpentry, all of which deepened his appreciation for materials, structure, and craftsmanship. That wide-ranging experience eventually led him to the Northwest School of Wooden Boatbuilding, where he found a natural home in the blend of tradition, artistry, and technical challenge that wooden boats demand. As an instructor, Orrin is passionate about helping students grow not just as builders but as makers, cultivating both skill and creative confidence. He brings curiosity, care, and a deep respect for the craft into the classroom and encourages students to do the same.
