Growing up in Northern Alberta, I was immersed in the Western way of life—a way of living deeply rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and a connection to the land. This upbringing instilled in me a profound respect for heritage, and it became my goal to carry that legacy forward in my career. Determined to deepen my skills, I studied a not-for-profit program for two years that provided a solid foundation in business, helping me understand how to merge traditional craftsmanship with modern industry practices. I worked alongside Jaida’s dad on construction sites, where I gained valuable hands-on experience in building and construction skills. In my downtime I returned to the woodshop, where I refined my cabinet-making skills, and founded Rustic Heritage. My creativity thrives in product development and customer spaces, where I blend my love for Western heritage with innovative solutions, always keeping practicality and craftsmanship at the heart of what I do. 

Woodworking runs deep in my family, passed down through generations as both a craft and a passion. My late Opa, a master cabinet maker, ran his own shop, where he crafted intricate, high-quality pieces with care and precision. My father followed in his footsteps, honing his skills in the family trade before expanding into general contracting. Growing up surrounded by the sound of tools and the smell of freshly cut wood, I naturally developed a keen eye for design and an intuitive understanding of the principles of construction and craftsmanship. This hands-on experience, paired with the lessons passed down from my father and Opa, has not only deepened my appreciation for the art of woodworking but also instilled in me a passion for continuing this legacy—one that honors the values of Western heritage while embracing the craftsmanship that defines our family’s tradition.

I grew up learning carpentry from my father, a skilled German cabinet maker. After graduating high school I opened my first cabinet and millwork shop alongside completing my apprenticeship in Cabinetmaking.Over 19 years, I expanded my business while mentoring young students in woodworking. In 1999, I sold my company and worked as a superintendent for a general contractor for 25 years, all while nurturing my family’s heritage in craftsmanship. I involved my daughter, Jaida, in projects, fostering her artistic talent. In 2019, she met her husband, Zac, and together they launched Rustic Heritage Co. I partnered with them, providing Zac with extensive training in carpentry. Currently, I am the President at Barcon Industries, specializing in healthcare facility construction, while advising Rustic Heritage Co. 

My passion for woodworking began in high school when I joined the WRAP program, which allowed me to start my carpentry apprenticeship while still in school. After graduating, I sought to explore the world and deepen my faith, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theology over four years. Throughout my studies, my love for carpentry remained strong. I worked in the trades during summers, gaining hands-on experience in various construction skills, from building stairs to creating concrete forms. After completing my education, I became a creative director for a nonprofit while also working part-time at Rustic Heritage. Over the past 2.5 years, I have expanded my skill set and taken on the role of shop foreman, becoming a key member of the team. Through this journey, I've discovered my passion for creativity, connecting with people, and embracing new challenges.