Making the cut: DC Carpentry students craft sustainable creations from scraps

When Colin Darch enrolled in Durham College’s (DC) Carpentry and Renovation Technician program in 2024, he looked forward to hands-on projects that would challenge his creativity and problem-solving skills. He didn’t expect, however, that a pile of leftover wood scraps would become such a memorable learning experience.

The idea began in the Carpentry shop, where students repurposed offcuts from larger projects into sleek, DC-branded cutting boards – a classroom exercise that quickly evolved into a green initiative now connecting programs, departments, and communities across the college.

“This project is all about sustainability and providing students with hands-on experience they can carry with them,” said Mick Weinburg, Carpentry professor and project founder. “Students not only learn essential woodworking skills but also an understanding of the value of using – and reusing – materials in meaningful ways.”

Students from the Carpentry and Renovation Technician, Carpentry – Building Construction Technician and Trades Fundamentals programs have embraced the challenge, which offers the chance to operate a wide range of tools and equipment — from planers and jointers to sanders and routers — and learn everything from precision cutting to finishing techniques.

“As the students measure, shape, sand, and assemble each piece, it’s rewarding to see the confidence they gain with tools not always used in the classroom. These practical skills will translate directly to industry work when they graduate,” said Weinburg.

Darch said the project has helped him deepen his understanding of carpentry and lesson content discussed in class: “Working on projects like this lets us put into practice the techniques we’re taught. It really helps set the information in your mind.”

Collaboration was a key part of the project, adding to the overall experience. “Everyone brought different experience to the table, and we learned from each other,” said Darch.

For fellow student John Kozak, seeing the transformation was the highlight. “I enjoyed watching rough lumber go through many stages into a final project I’m proud of. It feels good knowing that things I created are being used by so many people,” he said.

The cutting boards have since taken on a life of their own. With more than 60 crafted to date, they have been sold in the Pantry – DC’s unique retail food store, auctioned at the Enactus fundraising gala, gifted at work-integrated learning events, shared with donors, and even presented to industry partners in Scotland. The boards have also been featured in giveaways in the Bistro ’67 dining room and sold at college events, such as Open House, offering guests a unique and lasting keepsake of their visit to DC.

This student-powered project highlights DC’s sustainable, hands-on approach to learning and is just one of many ways the college continues to foster innovative experiences that strengthen a greener, more connected campus community.