Norman Pirollo, successful founder of White Mountain Design, White Mountain Toolworks, WoodSkills, Refined Edge Design and Pirollo Design, chronicles his journey from full-time employment to being self-employed at woodworking.

 

In this story of how his high-tech career gradually evolved into a woodworking career, Pirollo tells how he overcame obstacles to finally attain his goal of self-employment at woodworking.

 

Eventually acquiring the skills and techniques to be able to craft heirloom furniture, Pirollo relates his creative journey from childhood through adulthood, explaining how perseverance, fate and critical decisions all combined to map out the direction he followed in life.

Looking back at his early youth, it can be seen that creativity was always his strong point. As the journey progressed, he often sought creative outlets and challenges in life. Woodworking ultimately became his creative outlet. Norman faced many obstacles throughout the journey and financial support was often at the forefront. He enjoys where he is today in life, having accumulated considerable experience and expertise at several woodworking businesses. He is also indebted to his former hi-tech career, which provided him fulfillment for a number of years. There were many false starts in transitioning from full time employment to being self-employed at woodworking. The opportunity to work at something he truly enjoys has ultimately brought solace and independence to his life.

Delving into and studying the history of furniture design has provided him the language and background to develop his own contemporary styled furniture. Read how he immersed himself into the contemporary furniture world to develop a style and voice of his own. Find out how, through twists and turns, Norman acquired the expertise and proficiency to become an award-winning furniture maker. Norman never looks back at missed opportunities. It is also important to view any setbacks as valuable experience in your own journey. The time and effort invested in following your own dream will be well worth it.