Carpenter

When I left the Marines the government had college courses set up for ex-military people. I chose carpentry because it was always my dream to build my own home. I think the course lasted for about 6 months. I really enjoyed it and I went self employed as soon as I left college. It was a struggle to start with because I had no experience, but I met some good guys and they helped me out.

From the ages of 22 to 35, I was a carpenter in England. I did many projects. I loved doing hand cut roofs and I used my Ralph Goss roof ready reckoner quite often. I was one of few carpenters who could cut the entire roof on the ground and then just put it together. I nearly cut my bloody leg off with my circular saw but after many stitches I was back to work in no time. I worked really hard to become what I think was an excellent carpenter.

Having a trade certainly helped me in the next chapter of my life…USA.