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Driven By Professionals: An Interview with Aaron Maher (aka. @wicklowcarpenter)
We are back with another instalment of our Bissett Blog! As a family-owned Canadian company that began in 1929, we know that construction professionals need products and service they can count on. Our slogan “Driven By Professionals” is the driving force behind all the products and services we offer. Our products are made with professionals in mind, which is why we want to highlight some people in our industry who are doing some pretty incredible things. Each month we will be featuring individuals in our industry to learn a little bit more about them and the type of work they specialize in.
You likely already know of this week’s feature through his Instagram, where he goes by Wicklow Carpenter. This week we chatted with Aaron Maher, the 29-year-old Irish Finish Carpenter based out of Toronto, ON. Aaron chats with us about how he got into the trade (it’s in his blood), and about the joy of being in this industry. He also discusses the importance of taking pride in every job he completes and bringing back the craftsmanship of Finish Carpentry.
Here is our interview with Aaron:
1. Who are you?
I’m Aaron Maher, a 29 year old Finish Carpenter from Wicklow, Ireland, but have been in Toronto, Canada since 2011. You may know me as “The Wicklow Carpenter” which has been my company name since 2016.
2. What’s your specialty?
We specialize in door and trim packages for custom homes here in Toronto. From door milling and luxury hardware installations, to custom woodworking such as decorative archways and wall paneling.
3. How did you get into the trade?
I grew up in Ireland surrounded by craftsmen and woodworking. As far back as I can remember I’ve wanted to be a carpenter, it’s in the blood.
4. What’s your favourite part about work?
The truth is I live a craftsman lifestyle. Being in this trade is my favourite part. Being involved, creating, and designing. Aside from that, there is always that obsession with pushing the limits, striving for perfect results, and of course changing the opinion of the “Trades” and bringing back the craftsmanship! That is “Finish Carpentry”.
5. What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the workplace?
Expectations…..Finish Carpentry can be a tricky one to get perfect. It starts from a good foundation, good framing and so on. A good door and trim manufacturer, good quality hardware. The material needs a specific climate on site and a detailed installation. That then leads to a qualified painter and even to how the job will be protected after finish. There is so much involved with finish carpentry which can drastically change a finish. If everybody is on board, great things can happen! If not and you are just that one trade on site, and unfortunately expectations need to change.
6. What project/job(s) are you the most proud of?
7. What advice would you give to someone getting into the trade?
8. What do you like to do in your spare time?
Like I said before, the trade is life. Preparing for the next day in the field. Being your own boss sometimes means you have no spare time. Goals do not get reached by themselves.
BONUS! Favourite Bissett Product?
21 GA Pinner of course!
You can find more information about Aaron on his instagram @wicklowcarpenter !
Do you know someone who should be featured next in our series? Let us know!
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