Westmont Magazine Carving Out a Niche

How does a communication studies major with an interest in woodworking develop his talents? Jonathan Hansen ‘96 undertook an “entrepreneurial internship” to produce and market his wooden creations.

He acquired his skill during four years as an apprentice to his high school shop teacher in Singapore. As a senior at Westmont, he devised an internship making English country pine furniture. Tina Kistler, assistant director of career and life planning, helped him design this program. Working out of his Santa Barbara home, Jonathan built 40-50 custom pieces—from armoires to end tables—on commission for local customers.

This summer, Jonathan is serving as the finish carpenter at C. S. Lewis’ former home, The Kilns, outside Oxford, England. His tasks include refinishing the existing cabinets and constructing replicas of 1940s cabinets for several rooms. Westmont alumnus Jack Nydam ‘80 serves as general contractor for the renovation project, which began in 1993.