It’s not a bad way to start your career.

Less than a year after graduation, Woodworking Technology program graduate Armando (Manny) Cruz is heading to Atlanta, Georgia next month where one of his woodworking projects is an entry in an international competition.

An accent table built by Manny has been selected as a finalist in the Accent Furniture category at the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) Design Emphasis 2024 Furniture Design Competition.

With guidance from his instructors, Manny created the table using Sapele hardwood as the primary material because of its warm color and interesting figure options.  

“The design and materials used make the observer gravitate to this table,” says Mark Lorge, department chair of Woodworking Technology. “The material is striking so that gets your attention first. But then the subtleties of the design become more apparent the longer you look at it. With flawless attention to joinery and detail, Manny created a product that the selection committee could not ignore.”

IWF Design Emphasis is widely seen as one of the foremost furniture design competitions for U.S. college students. The competition gives students a platform to demonstrate design skills and talent. Finalists have their work displayed before a global audience

Manny started the Woodworking Technology program at FVTC immediately after finishing high school. He completed his technical diploma in December 2023 and is employed by Glenn-Reider Inc., a custom architectural millwork company in West Allis, WI.

The IWF happens August 6-9^th. Good luck, Manny!