Emerged From the Woodwork
Photo credit: Jessica Nicklen Smart
I discovered the cabinet making industry after finishing a degree in Fine Arts and Business during the pandemic. Craving hands-on experience and a way to bring my ideas to life with structural integrity, I chose an apprenticeship in cabinet making. I grew up seeing my dad and grandpas doing woodworking, so I found it to be the most accessible trade for me.
While working full time and pursuing my apprenticeship, I started Wooden Brand Company as a fun side project during my lunch breaks. Sharing pictures of my small woodworking projects, I was pleasantly surprised when people began expressing interest in purchasing them as my skills progressed. The support and encouragement from others have been instrumental in shaping my woodworking journey and turning it into a business.
What excites me the most about this industry is the opportunity to apply my artistic vision while ensuring the durability and precision of my creations. Unfortunately, almost every day I feel intense imposter syndrome and a general lack of confidence.
I feel like somehow I have gotten to where I am by tricking people into thinking I can design and build things. This is a challenge I face over and over again, and some days I truly feel like quitting to go do something I am "good" at.
I also often struggle with being the only woman in the workplace.
This has come with its own challenges, which have mostly led to feelings of loneliness.
To overcome these challenges I am learning to embrace my achievements, celebrate my progress, and continue to challenge myself. I try to remind myself daily that I am deserving of the success I have achieved and the opportunities ahead.
I have an amazing community through the British Columbia Center for Women In the Trades as well as loving friends and family who pump me up any chance they get. Their invaluable support has motivated me to continually improve and push my boundaries. This takes MOXY, which, to me, means to have wildly unapologetic and authentic confidence to pursue passions and goals.
About the Author: Shayla Giroux is the owner, designer and fabricator at Wooden Brand Company. She is also a regional representative for British Columbia Center for Women In the Trades (BCCWITT) and works in a specialty fabrication shop building public art.