The Bismarck Career Academy and the Dakota Woodturners (DWT) have partnered to provide woodturning instruction and hands-on experiences for Career Academy students. Through this partnership, DWT members serve as mentors, introducing students to the art, tools, and techniques of woodturning in a classroom and shop environment.
Program Overview
Mentoring sessions take place during the school semester at the Bismarck Career Academy.
Sessions are conducted during regular class periods, each lasting approximately 90 minutes.
Class schedules and times are coordinated each semester with Career Academy instructors.
Instruction Focus
Students progress through a variety of woodturning projects, which may include:
Safety training and introduction to the lathe and turning tools
Hands-on skill building (beads, coves, and basic spindle work)
Beginning projects, such as:
Screwdriver handles
Pens
Intermediate projects, such as:
Tops
Decorative wands
Snowman or seasonal ornaments
Advanced classes, often focusing on bowl turning
Time is provided to complete unfinished projects as needed
Materials & Equipment
DWT provides wood for all projects.
Project hardware (such as pen and screwdriver kits) is provided by the school.
DWT assists with additional tools and lathes when needed.
Mentors
Class sizes typically range from 11 to 24 students.
Each session requires 8 to 12 DWT mentors.
Mentors are encouraged to bring examples of their turned work to display and discuss with students.
No prior teaching experience is required—enthusiasm and willingness to help students learn is key.
Ongoing Coordination
DWT organizers meet with Bismarck Career Academy instructors each semester to plan schedules, project focus, and mentoring needs.
Day 1 – Safety, introductions to tools / lathe, hands-on beads and coves
Day 2 – Screwdriver handle
Day 3 – Pen
Day 4 – Tops / “Harry Potter” Wand / Snowman ornaments / other
