Rob Hiza & Matt McLaughlin
June 9-13
Maintaining and fine-tuning woodworking machinery is essential to creating a productive and dependable workshop. Throughout this class, participants develop a practical understanding of shop layout using an informed approach to machine selection and optimized dust collection system setup. Drawing on lessons learned by the CFC facilities team’s impressive history keeping multiple machine rooms in top operating shape, the curriculum emphasizes proven strategies for maximizing both efficiency and safety.
Hands-on sessions include diagnosing and rehabilitating an older machine, allowing students to learn step-by-step methods for troubleshooting, testing components, and sourcing parts. Students also gain experience in replacing and setting jointer and planer knives; installing and setting bandsaw blades; safe set up of table saws; tips for calibration; and tune-up techniques. Rob and Matt introduce a range of essential shop jigs, with guidance on adapting them to individual machines for more precise work. By the end of the week, participants leave with the skills and confidence to configure, maintain, and optimize their own workshops.
Rob Hiza is a furniture maker in Rockland, ME. After taking our twelve-week Furniture Intensive in 2012, he attended the North Bennet Street School’s cabinet and furniture program. Subsequently, Rob entered the field as a full-time, professional woodworker by moving to New York City, where he worked for a custom furniture business and took independent commissions. In 2021, Rob moved to Maine, reconnected with CFC, and joined our staff as Facilities Assistant. His Instagram page is @hh_woodworking.
Matt McLaughlin, the Assistant Facilities Director at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship, came to the Center as a Nine-month Comprehensive student in 2017 after working as a crew chief on C130 cargo aircraft in the U.S. Air Force. After graduating from the Nine-month program in 2018, Matt was hired onto the Woodschool facilities team and he ensures all machines on campus function at the highest standards. “We take pride in our tools, and it shows.”
Open to all.
