Woodworker Network, now under the leadership of new owner Justin Schramm, is not just about crafting wood – it’s about carving out a new future for a small-town business in Addy, WA. Woodworker Network is a full-service woodshop and retail outlet known for its wide range of woodworking services. With this change in ownership, Woodworker Network is entering an exciting phase of innovation and community engagement. In this article, we explore Schramm’s journey from his diverse background in engineering and the trades to his vision for the future of Woodworker Network.
New Owner Justin Schramm
Schramm describes the variety of Woodworker Network’s services as “from tree to table.” This means they offer everything from raw lumber and semi-processed wood to complete projects such as table or countertop installations. The expertise of the woodworking team shines in creating custom-made pieces like traditional style bar and kitchen island tops, coffee tables, and many handmade wood furniture options. They have a commitment to affordability without sacrificing quality. As the new owner, Schramm hopes to not only continue the legacy of quality craftsmanship but also significantly enhance the business’s role within the community.
Schramm’s education is in mechanical engineering, but his professional background spans a variety of different trades and manufacturing processes. From beekeeping to auto mechanics, his diverse career experiences have given him a distinctive advantage when it comes to innovation. A pivotal chapter in his career was his internship and then employment at QPR: Qualified Rapid Products, where he used 3D printing technology to produce metal components for the aerospace sector, as well as spinal inserts for medical use. This unique blend of experiences has equipped Schramm with a broad perspective on design and manufacturing.
Sample work done by Russell, Woodworker Network shop foreman, typically done in shop and made ready for pickup or installation.
Schramm ventured into freelance engineering, which afforded him more creative freedom. In the summer of 2019, he launched Omni Studio, which is now the parent company of Woodworker Network. Omni Studio offers signs, banners, decals, stickers, 3D printing, and more. The acquisition of Woodworker Network adds to the already impressive list of products and services available. This expansion reflects Schramm’s ambition to not just maintain but elevate the standards of quality and innovation that Woodworker Network is known for.
What does this acquisition mean for Woodworker Network moving forward? Schramm sees it as a chance not only for growth but also to contribute positively to the community. Chewelah, WA, and the surrounding regions face economic challenges, leading many young individuals to relocate in search of better opportunities. By scaling the Woodworker Network business, Schramm hopes to create local jobs. His vision of expanding production and manufacturing within the community could boost the local economy.
Being a family business affects how Woodworker Network interacts with the larger community. “We have roots here,” Schramm explains. While his wife doesn’t necessarily help with business processes, Schramm is quick to emphasize the pivotal role his wife plays in supporting the family and raising their children. Schramm states, it simply would not be possible without his wife’s support. They are not only raising a family in the area but are also invested in seeing the whole region thrive. The commitment to local hiring is a testament to how businesses like Woodworker Network can positively impact the community.
Transitioning ownership comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is the relatively low profile of Woodworker Network in the community. The area is experiencing an influx of new homeowners in need of dependable renovation and home improvement services. Schramm thinks that people are frustrated with the currently available selection of builders and sees this as an opportunity for Woodworker Network to fill that gap and improve standards. He aims to generate excitement through participation in local events and using social media to increase engagement. They will be attending the Spokane Home and Garden show in April, which presents a prime opportunity for networking with other businesses and homeowners. Schramm also has grand plans for hosting a Makers Market. By inviting local makers to show off their wares, Schramm will not only be driving traffic to the business but also supporting smaller makers in showcasing their products and services. This approach not only boosts the local economy but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among local artisans.
When asked if there was anything else Schramm wants people to know about Woodworker Network, he added that they are improving the atmosphere at the shop. His vision is for it to be a family-friendly destination. They have recently added a dedicated space where children can safely play and hang out. Schramm emphasized the importance of making the shop a place where the whole family feels welcome and engaged. Schramm was also excited to announce that, for the first time in recent memory, Woodworker Network is open on Saturdays. This change caters to the convenience of families and weekend hobbyists.
As Woodworker Network embarks on a new chapter, Schramm’s vision extends beyond the workshop’s walls, aiming to forge a stronger, more vibrant community through job creation and local engagement. By filling the gaps in the market and setting new standards in the building and renovation industry, Woodworker Network sees itself as poised to make a lasting impact on the local economy and the lives of those within the community.
Brooke Masters lives in Spokane Valley. When she isn’t exploring the natural beauty of the pacific Northwest, she indulges in her passion for arts and crafts, reading, and video games.
