Changes at Fine Woodworking
Ben Strano is leaving Fine Woodworking to become a tech ed teacher, and the team is undergoing some big changes

Ben Strano is making a significant career change, leaving Fine Woodworking to become a tech ed teacher at a local high school. He will be teaching computer-integrated manufacturing, a basic fixing stuff class, and architecture classes. This new role is a dream come true for Ben, who has been wanting to become a tech ed teacher for a few years.
Background on Ben's Decision
Ben's decision to leave Fine Woodworking was not taken lightly, but he is excited about the new opportunities that this role will bring. He will be taking night classes to get his teacher's certificate throughout the next year. Ben's small classroom is equipped with a range of tools, including a CNC, a small mill, an even smaller 5-axis mill, and five 3D printers.
Impact on Fine Woodworking
Ben's departure from Fine Woodworking will undoubtedly be felt, but the team is in good hands. Vic and Bridgid will be taking over the reins, and Ben has every confidence that they will do an amazing job. Fine Woodworking.com is also in good hands with Bridgid taking over the digital reins. She has a lot of talent, both in woodworking and digitally, and Ben has no doubt that she will excel in her new role.
Listener Questions
Listeners to the Shop Talk Live podcast have been asking questions, including one from Matt about helical planer heads. Matt was wondering if there had been a follow-up to a discussion about ordering a Tersa-like system as an upgrade to a machine. He has a two-knife machine, a DeWalt 1150, and gets great results on straight-grained wood, but it can tear out quite deeply on reversing grain. The team at Fine Woodworking is always happy to answer questions from listeners, and they can be sent to [email protected] for consideration in the regular broadcast.
Support for Shop Talk Live
The continued existence of Shop Talk Live relies on listener support, so if you enjoy the show, be sure to leave a five-star rating and maybe even a nice comment on the iTunes page. You can also join the team on their Discord server to discuss all things woodworking.





