Steve McCarroll served in the US Army for 24 years. In January, 2020, he registered to become a Woodworking Warrior. He took the safety course (which is required for all veterans to use the shop) and then thought “What do I do now?” He had taken woodworking classes in high school, and he remembered how to make a cutting board. He thought “I’ll make a cutting board, that’s something I know how to do.” Well, he started making cutting boards and hasn’t stopped since. He quickly became a leader within the Woodworking Warriors program, teaching others how to use the equipment, bringing chili for lunch, and becoming a mentor. In 2021, his Woodworking Warrior peers voted him as both the Best Teacher and Most Helpful. He started his own small business, McCarroll Custom Cutting Boards, where he designs unique cutting board patterns using a mix of domestic and exotic wood species.

Steve made the decision last year to refine his woodworking skills and join the Wood Design: Furniture Making College Program using his Vocational Rehabilitation (VocRehab) benefits from the VA. He is in the second semester now, and will graduate this year on June 3rd. He has also become a Woodworking Instructor, teaching cutting board classes to both the public and the Woodworking Warriors.

Steve served as a recruiter during the last part of his career with the Army. He realized he could use his recruiter skills to help other veterans become involved in our woodworking programs. In 2022, he became the SBWI Veteran Communications Director. He helps other vets navigate the admission process and figure out how to best utilize their GI Bill or VocRehab benefits.

Steve is just one student here who makes our school feel more like a family. There are many amazing stories developing here everyday.