In this special series of episodes of the FHB Podcast, Andrew Zoellner, executive director of Keep Craft Alive, shares his conversations with some of the most talented and dedicated people in the world of residential design and construction.

Kate Hersey, executive director of the Minnesota Tool Library is passionate about getting tools into the hands of more folks. Through her work at the non-profit tool lending library, she and her community of volunteers introduce hands-on tool skills to their members. From new homeowners tackling deferred maintenance, to kids working on school projects, to even pros who’ve needed a tool to finish a job, their two locations serve more than 1000 members.

Keep Craft Alive is an initiative powered by Fine Homebuilding to bring awareness to the skills gap in the building industry and the rich professional opportunities that exist in the trades.

The SkillsUSA #KeepCraftAlive Scholarship Fund provides tuition money to students pursuing a career in the trades. You can make a tax-deductible donation to the fund, or buy a #KeepCraftAlive T-shirt to both support the fund and show your support.

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

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Milwaukee Cordless Shop Vac (0880-20)

This sleek, sturdy little vac is ultra compact but has plenty of power and the quietest operation.

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Wirefy Crimping Tool

This crimping tool from Wirefy is high-quality and reliable.

Buy at Amazon

Reliable Crimp Connectors

These reliable, high-quality connectors from Wirefy work on 10-22-gauge wire have heat-shrink insulation to keep out water and road salt.

Buy at Amazon