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2019 Marathon Results ..................................................................................................5
In addition to the artist paddles, 200 keychains were created using the Wood Science Technology program’s Glowforge laser engraving machine. All the keychains were cut out of 1/8” thick cherry and ash—hardwood species traditionally used for canoe paddles—and engraved with custom ARICM artwork.
“The canoe paddle project illustrates exactly what a Wood Science Technology project should be—traditional woodworking with a manufacturing twist,” Dodgson said. “We designed the paddles using CAD software, programmed the toolpath, then optimized the process after
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the initial setup, taking the time per paddle from 24 minutes to 5 minutes. Students also performed manual machining practices utilizing jointers, planners, miter saws, plunge routers, and sanding equipment.”
The Wood Science Technology program at Kirtland Community College is a fast-paced nine-month certificate program. The curriculum was designed in partnership with industry leaders to provide students the hands-on experience employers are looking for.
“The wood industry is important to our area,” Dodgson said. “My hope, and the hope of Kirtland Community College, is to engage the community to create an elite workforce in order to grow the industry and our local economy. There are plenty of job opportunities for people who want to learn what it means to work in the wood products industry.”
The finished paddles will be displayed at Grayling and Oscoda businesses throughout the summer (May 27 to August 1) and auctioned off online (July 17 to August 1). Proceeds will go to the ARICM’s general operating fund.
