Smith Shows ATC Students How Carpentry Skills Can Build a Business
Mayfield, KY – Brad Smith from Smith Home and Design recently met with upper-level carpentry students at the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC) as part of the Power in Partnership Program coordinated by Graves County Economic Development (GCED). Smith shared not only practical skills, but also his personal experience of building a successful business by following his passion for music and discovering a love for woodworking.
Smith, a retired Kentucky State Police Officer, has a lifelong love of music and plays guitar. “As a musician, I was fascinated by the process of building guitars and that led to an appreciation for woodworking,” Smith explained. “Once I learned those skills, I started building furniture, which led to private commissions and later to starting my own business, Smith Home and Design. I enjoyed meeting the students and sharing my story. I want them to know that the skills they are learning now can be life-changing. Building on this base, they can become true craftsmen, and that is a ticket to a successful and satisfying profession.”
Located in Mayfield, KY, Smith Home and Design opened in Nov. 2024. They offer kitchen and bath cabinets to fit every budget, as well as custom-built cabinets, granite, quartz, and marble and a great selection of cabinet hardware and backsplash tile.
The visit was part of the Power in Partnership program, a collaboration between Graves County Economic Development (GCED) and the ATC that brings professionals to the school to share their expertise and experience with students. These professionals provide information about pay/benefits, advancement/progression, training needed after high school, and other crucial details that help students understand and prepare for careers.
“Brad assured the students that taking our classes is giving them a major advantage to getting started in carpentry-related industries,” said ATC Principal Josh Heisner. “He also took time to hang out in the shop and answer students' questions one-to-one. We really appreciate his support of our program and Graves County Economic Development for collaborating with us on Power in Partnership.”
“Power in Partnership is excited to bring entrepreneurs like Brad Smith to the ATC classes,” said GCED President Jason Lemle. “We want to inspire our students to think more broadly about their career options and help them visualize a successful future for themselves right here in Graves County. Stories like this help us accomplish that and we’re grateful to Brad for joining our effort.”
The ATC is located on the Mayfield High School campus and educates students from Mayfield Independent Schools, Graves County High School and Carlisle County High School.
Power in Partnership visits will continue throughout the school year. If you have questions, or want to learn more, go to the GCED website at gravescountyed.com
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Located in Mayfield, KY, Smith Home and Design offers kitchen and bath cabinets to fit every budget as well as custom-built cabinets. They also offer granite, quartz, and marble.
About Graves County Economic Development
Graves County Economic Development began in 1981, becoming the driving force behind expansion and development opportunities in the community. It continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attracts new industry to grow in Graves County. Forty-four industrial businesses in Graves County employ more than 2,300 people in the community.