I was born and raised in Camarillo, CA, a medium-sized town located on the coast between Santa Barbara and Malibu. I often get asked how I got involved in woodworking, to which I jokingly respond, "it's complicated.”

When I was younger, I was never much interested in action figures and/or cartoons; rather, I spent my time watching shows like "Bob Vila's Home Again" and playing with wood blocks or Legos. My grandma also immersed me, willingly, into many art-centric activities. 

The real story, however, starts with a good friend from high school - really his dad. I would hang out at my friend’s house after school where his dad was always working on things, such as coffee tables and entertainment centers, in the garage. Over a period of time, I began to help him with projects and really became interested in the craft; I learned the basics from him.

After acquiring some basic tools at the age of 18, I built a workshop in a corner of a warehouse that was owned by my Grandpa. Originally it was filled with portable, contractor-style tools, and at that time, those were all I needed because I was not making the kinds of things I make today.

My college years put my woodworking ambitions on hold because I went to school in the San Francisco Bay area. After I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, I moved back to Camarillo where I began to work for a general contractor as a laborer. Within that year, work became scarce; however, I was able to find a new job with a young cabinet maker in Camarillo. I spent time working in his shop making cabinets and then transitioned into working out in the field where I specialized in installing crown molding and trim along with cabinets. 

My time with the cabinet maker once again sparked my interest in woodworking. During that stretch, I used the money earned from working to fund some tool purchases. I was very lucky to get some industrial woodworking tools at an auction while others were purchased as needed. 

As time progressed, I transitioned more and more away from working with the cabinet maker to working on my own projects for clients that started as family referrals. 

Now, I have become very proud of my shop. It is on the small side, but contains just about everything I could need. Even so, as a self-professed tool nut, I am always looking to find a deal and better equipment. 

In 2011, I took an opportunity to become a project manager for an industrial services company. I spend a majority of my time on the road, managing projects all over the states. And, while this limits the frequency of time I get to spend in my shop, I do get blocks of time between projects to design and build things in my shop.

I consider my style of work to be rather technical and my philosophy is that form definitely follows function. I get inspiration from major infrastructure projects like bridges, or the mechanical workings of equipment. 

When I am not at work or in my shop, you may find me out riding my mountain bike with friends or with my dog, Blaze - A Rhodesian Ridgeback, at the beach. I also can't forget to mention my long-time girlfriend Miranda, as she supports everything I do.

At some point, I would like to live my dream and make furniture and wood art full time.

Thank you for taking the time to browse my website,

Mike Pecsok