Preservation Trades Network Blog

2026 IPTW

Mark Johnston — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:43:35 GMT

PTN's board of Directors is thrilled to announce the 2026 International Preservation Trades Workshop will be held on September 17th - 19th in beautiful and historic Medina, NY. We are looking forward to PTN's signature event and Medina promises to be fantastic host city. Incorporated in 1832, Medina developed quickly as a trade entrepot and center for business and manufacturing. The city offers an historic downtown and is known for its population of 19th century cobblestone buildings. Please check the website and watch your email for more information .We are looking forward to seeing you all in September!!!

Call for Nominations for the Board of Directors

Mark Johnston — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 22:11:09 GMT

Dear Members,

Once gain it is time once again to run for the Board of Directors!!! The PTN Board of Directors has three positions open. Serving on the Board is your chance to help chart the course for PTN's future while working and improving our current functions. You must be a current member of PTN and are encouraged to have experience on non-profit boards. The time required varies and you should plan on being available for one to two remote conferences each month as well as an annual face-to-face meeting at the location of the annual IPTW. Most communication is via email and online . Each board member also serves on one or more committees and all are involved in the planning and execution of the annual International Preservation Trades Workshop. Deadline for submission is December 6th, with the ballot being presented both on-line and in the newsletter. Elections will be held later in December. Just click on the link below to start the process and good luck!

Board of Directors Nomination form

Discount for PTN members to attend the National Trust's PastForward25 workshop in Milwaukee, WI.

Mark Johnston — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 17:45:30 GMT

The National Trust has generously offered to provide discounted attendance fee to attend the PastForward 25 workshop in Milwaukee, WI on September 16-18, 2025. The discount code PTNPF25 has been set up for discounted registration of $500 for Preservation Trades Network members. You can register using the public registration portal at https://events.savingplaces.org/pastforward25/registration-infomation. To register click public registration > Begin Registration > PastForward25 > and type in the discount code PTNPF25.

This is a great opportunity to meet preservation professionals, network and learn about preservation efforts from across the country.

Misia Leonard Application Deadline 6/21

Joe Tokarsky — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 21:09:54 GMT

The Misia Leonard Scholarship Application Deadline Is Almost Here!

Click To Apply

There are only a few days left for all preservation trades students and apprentices to apply for the Misia Leonard Scholarship to attend this year's International Preservation Trades Workshop September 11th through 13th at Historic Fort Snelling, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Apply by this Saturday, June 21st to join professionals of every preservation trade and other trade adjacent fields, of all ages and experience levels, teaching, learning, discussing philosophies and strategies, and enjoying each others' company and influence at the oldest preservation trades conference of its kind.

All Misia Leonard Scholarship Recipients will receive travel assistance of up to $1,000 to attend IPTW.

For more information, go to Misia Leonard Scholarship today!

Click To Apply

Misia Leonard Spotlight - Amy Perl

Joe Tokarsky — Thu, 29 May 2025 00:16:32 GMT

Misia Leonard Scholarship

As we prepare for this year’s IPTW at Historic Fort Snelling in St. Paul, Minnesota, September 11^th - 13^th, Preservation Trades Network is excited to share the experiences of each of our 2024 recipients who attended last year's IPTW in Savannah, Georgia. The Misia Leonard Scholarship provides financial assistance to individuals eager to immerse themselves in the world of traditional building trades. These firsthand accounts offer a glimpse into the valuable learning and networking opportunities the IPTW provides. For students, apprentices, and emerging professionals passionate about preservation, we encourage you to explore this opportunity and consider applying for the 2025 Misia Leonard Scholarship to attend IPTW 2025 and join in the learning!

For more information on Misia Leonard, and to apply for the scholarship --

CLICK HERE

Recipient Spotlight

Amy Perl

Attending this year’s IPTW was such a wonderful experience! It only happened because I was lucky enough to be selected for the Misia Leonard scholarship, which I was lucky enough to find out about and apply to at the 11th hour. But, as with many things on this journey, I feel like it was meant to be.

I attended IPTW and the memories I made there really stand out.

I am an eclectic soul. One lifetime is not enough time to explore all that I am interested in knowing and doing and seeing, but I’m giving it my best shot. This is why attending IPTW held such appeal. To be able, in one place, to learn about such a wide range of trades and materials was so special.

I was fascinated to hear Innes Drummond talk about stone and hear so many similarities to how my teacher talked about wood… how it has a “grain” (bedding plain) and when freshly quarried emits a “sap” and how when you begin working with it, pretty quickly you can feel how well it is going to cooperate with you. I got to try my hand at it and, like with all trades, you quickly recognize the skill it takes to make it look easy.

Jane Griswold Radocchia’s presentation on daisy wheels was not only an interesting lesson in the history of geometry in the building process, but also allowed the fun, hands-on exercise of creating our own daisy wheels. Talking about cubits and understanding how craftsman could use it to “speak the same language” gave me a better understanding of the methods our predecessors used to create structures of such beauty and strength.

I was thankful to have two presentations in stained glass to enjoy. In Melanie Hendrix’s session I was happy to have my first exposure to the copper foil method of making stained glass. I look forward to trying my hand at this method. I also appreciated getting to know Melanie and hear about the journey she and her husband have been on literally building their own home. It made me feel a little bit braver at the prospect of finding my own major renovation project.

It was a joy to see Rhonda Deeg and hear her presentation on restoring leaded windows. Rhonda is “my” teacher, as she is the master who teaches stained glass at Bob Yapp’s school, so I’d had the pleasure of learning from her twice before. Rhonda is the magical trifecta of being a kind and knowledgeable teacher, an experienced businesswoman with respect and love for the work she does and the glass she works on, as well as bringing the perfect combination of confidence and down-to-earth openness to her work and relationships. I am so lucky to have met Rhonda!

I learned so much from Michiel Broun’s demonstration on linseed oil paint! Being interested in traditional materials and methods, I had heard of linseed oil paint, but didn’t really know much about it and certainly had never used it before. Michiel’s captivating presentation was packed full of information on the history of this paint, the components of linseed oil paint and primer, the manufacturing methods, proper application, when not to use linseed oil paint, proper tools and cleanup, and best practices for paint maintenance. I even got to paint part of a sash for myself and see the amazing coverage you get! I couldn’t wait to get my hands on his book to learn even more about it!

I can’t end without giving a nod to Mae Bowley, the keynote speaker at the conference. Her enthusiasm and passion for the topic of deconstruction, salvage, and reuse was inspiring! We learned about the history of deconstruction, the environmental impacts of our current destructive practices, how we as individuals could help this movement in our own towns, and what progress has been made. I also got some great book references, which always makes me happy. I am so thankful people like Mae are out there fighting the good fight and educating people, but we all have a responsibility to do our part. Being in a group of people who share the same love of preservation and feel the same passion for saving our history and these unbelievably valuable materials was moving and made me feel like part of something bigger.

There are so many presenters and vendors I also spent time with that I haven’t even mentioned yet… timber framing, hardware restoration, decorative plaster, wood stains, window restoration, the list goes on.

I often say to people that the smartest thing I ever did was go into the trades. As someone with multiple liberal arts degrees, I had always had what you might call a “traditional” view toward who goes into the trades. Now that I have entered the trades myself, and particularly this wonderful historic preservation niche, I am so grateful. I have found a second family of kind and knowledgeable people who I know would be happy to help me with questions or offer encouragement whenever I need it. Knowing I am part of a group of people who value the same things I value makes my world a brighter place. Thank you so much, PTN, for awarding me this scholarship and making this experience possible!

Call For Askins Award Nominations

Joe Tokarsky — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 14:01:37 GMT

Nominations are Open for the 2025 Askins Achievement Award

Nominations for the 2025 Askins Achievement Award are now being accepted and may be submitted until April 1, 2025. The Askins Achievement Award is named in honor of James S. (Jim) Askins, founder of the National Park Service Historic Preservation Training Center and recognizes contributions over and above the noteworthy. The award criteria include contributions to the preservation trades for

Continuance of traditional building skills

Advocacy of training in preservation trades

Practicing a building trade at master level of skill and knowledge

Extraordinary effort given to advancing the awareness of traditional building trade skills and knowledge.

To learn about the Askins Award and read about previous recipients visit the PTN website HERE .

You do not have to be a member of PTN to make a nomination for the Askins Achievement Award. Nominations from previous years may be resubmitted and are encouraged. Nomination forms and award guidelines can be viewed below. The 2025 Askins Achievement award will be presented at 2025 IPTW.

submit Nomination HERE

Guidelines and Nomination Procedure for the Askins Achievement Award

Achievement Award recipients do not have to be members of Preservation Trades Network.
Nominators for the Askins Achievement Award do not have to be members of the Preservation Trades Network, and they do not have to be Award Recipients.
Recipients of the Askins Achievement Award are the group that administers the award and selects future recipients.
The award was established to be distinct from and separate from the Preservation Trades Network Board of Directors.
The permanent award plaque listing previous winners is owned by the National Park Service Historic Preservation Training Center and shall be displayed and kept up to date by the HPTC at the HPTC Headquarters at Gambrill House, Frederick, MD. The Logo is loaned to PTN for use on the individual Award Plaque given to each year’s winner.
A recipient selected by the others shall take on the administration of the award on behalf of the Askins Achievement Award group.
The new recipient shall be contacted to ensure that the plaque is created in the manner desired by the recipient.
The criteria for the Askins Achievement Award are stated in the nomination form.
The Askins Achievement Award group shall solicit nominations from the Preservation Trades Community at large.
The Askins Achievement Award group shall have the right by majority vote to approve or disapprove use of the Award for marketing or promotion by the Preservation Trades Network Board of Directors.
The Askins Award Recipient shall have a nominator who has provided a written nomination form and is willing to introduce the recipient.
Announcement of the Askins Award Recipient shall be published in the PTN Newsletter and other media after the International Preservation Trades Workshop.
Announcement of the Askins Award Recipient before the International Preservation Trades Workshop is subject to a majority vote of the recipients.
The business of the Askins Achievement Award group may be conducted by conference call, direct meeting, or email. A quorum to conduct the business of the group shall be a majority of the recipients.
Nominations stand for one year. The nomination may re-submitted.

Past Askins Achievement Award Recipients

2024 - Rob Cagnetta

2023 - Moss Rudley

2022 - Marjorie Hunt

2021 - Will Beemer

2020 - Bill Hole

2019 - Jane Wooley

2018 - Patrick Kennedy

2017 - James Turner

2016 - Carol Heidschuster

2015 - David Hayles

2014 - David R. Mertz

2013 - Duffy Hoffman

2012 - Simeon Warren

2011 - Dominic DeRubis

2010 - Neil Rippingale

2009 - Robert Adam

2008 - David Gibney

2007 - Dr. Gerard C.J. Lynch

2006 - Earl Barthé

2005 - Joseph Jenkins

2004 - John William Laing

2003 - Jimmy Price

2002 - Bill Gichner

2001 - Lisa Sasser

2000 - Rudy R. Christian

1999 - John Fugelso

1998 - James S. (Jim) Askins

Call For Directors!

Joe Tokarsky — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 14:57:07 GMT

It’s time for another opportunity to make PTn work for us all

Board membership with Preservation Trades Network is a great way to promote the preservation trades and gain knowledge and experience managing a non-profit organization. See the link to apply followed by the criteria below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfA77TT0FgYyHIG0popyBKtY5gi4vFLcBYyMeq9z6A2Oaxq-A/viewform

Application deadline: Dec 28, 2024

What’s expected of Board Members?

Be an active PTN member in good standing or become one;
Commit to a 3-year Board Term;
Attend a monthly virtual Board Meeting on the third Thursday at 7 pm EST;
Participate in one Committee;
Contribute at least one hour per week to board work in addition to board and committee meetings;
Attend the annual Face to Face Board Meeting;
Plan and attend the International Preservation Trades Workshop;
Have a basic familiarity with the internet and software functions;
Use assigned @ptn.org gmail account and respond to communications in a timely and professional manner;
Act as an official ambassador of and liaison for the Preservation Trades Network; and
Agree to and abide by the PTN Code of Ethics.

Additionally, the Board of Directors is looking for people with skills or interest in learning any of the following:

Google Workspace for Nonprofits
Wild Apricot Member and Website Management
QuickBooks Online and budgeting
Design software like Canva or Photoshop
Communications and communications tools like eblasts, newsletters, website maintenance, and social media
Project management and event planning

Qualified applicants will be invited to a brief meeting with the current Board of Directors to ask questions about serving on the Board.

We Look Forward To Hearing From You Soon!

Handy Hints on Teaching through Practical Demonstrations

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 20:53:06 GMT

Dr Gerard Lynch, Historic Brickwork Consultant, Master Brick Mason

21 May 2010

There are many highly skilled, knowledgeable and skilled craftsmen and women who have years of proven experience working on a variety of buildings who have a great deal to share with fellow practitioners, young people wondering about their future career pathway, architects, architectural historians, surveyors, planners, etc, keen to acquire a greater awareness of a craft its’ tools, materials and techniques, as well as members of a fascinated public who are simply delighted to find that such skills there are still being practised.

Most working within the arena of the repair and restoration of traditionally constructed buildings, are keen to meet up with fellow craftsmen and women from their own and allied crafts within PTN, and express a willingness to assist, in some small way, passing on aspects of their skills, knowledge and experience to others who are keen to learn. Few, however, will have the natural confidence to volunteer to take the plunge to stand up in front of a group and take a class, or lead part of a ‘workshop’. That is perfectly understandable, as most are naturally humble about their own abilities and achievements, and fully aware that, throughout time, not all gifted craftsmen could teach. The writer would suggest, however, a great number who do feel a ‘calling’ to begin, in some small, to teach by way of taking a lead part in practical demonstrations, but are shy of committing themselves, are, with targeted guidance and support, from those within PTN of proven successful experience, usually very capable of doing so.

Encouraging PTN Members to Consider Demonstrating

There will be an understandable shyness for a craftsman or women when, having felt a desire to share skills, knowledge, experience and their enthusiasm, considering putting their name forward to be a demonstrator. Yet, they should bear in mind that all of those fellow PTN members who they see putting on well-planned, informative and engaging demonstrations, were themselves once novices within this arena; and equally as hesitant and nervous too. So, these people must be collectively encouraged and supported, especially by those of us members with proven experience in demonstrating, to assist them to get past their natural reserve and enable them to gain the confidence necessary to give demonstrations.

There can be little doubt that when one has a love of their craft they can quickly learn to overcome inhibitions, convey knowledge and skills, enthuse with their personal passion about it and optimism about its long-term future, then people listening and observing will always find that of interest.

A key ingredient in gaining such confidence is to possess a sound and meaningful knowledge of one’s craft and, within that, of the subject that they wish to demonstrate. That being so, their natural skills and wealth of knowledge will simply and easily flow as they begin to relax into their demonstration. Yet, that said, they must also learn not to be embarrassed, or put off demonstrating, should they making a mistake, for as they saying goes, ‘To err is to be human, to be perfect is to be Divine’. Remember, all who are now so fluent, and clearly at ease in their demonstrations, achieved such mastery by learning in the willingness to have a go and in so doing, of how to quickly and gracefully overcome the mistakes they made within their early presentations. In that respect, it is good to laugh at oneself and turn a ‘blooper’ into a source of group laughter. It is has been the writer’s experience that when one approaches a demonstration with a degree of humility, that group is always forgiving of a mistake in demonstrating; for they fully appreciate how difficult it must be to present in front of an audience.

As PTN stalwart, Ken Follett reflects:

“I think of the times we have had really grand demonstrators who started out thinking they had nothing to say but once set with their tools and materials and an audience that they fell into the rhythm and gave really touching demonstrations. An intention of the demonstrations was to aid tradespeople in finding their voice, and in this respect a focus was sometimes applied to assist those who believe that they have no voice to be enabled to speak through the giving of demonstrations to an audience of peers who would not take them to task for being clumsy or inept in their presentations.”

The following notes, therefore, are hints on how to successfully teach through practical demonstrations.

Planning the Demonstration

Reflect on the umbrella organisation for who you are to demonstrate for, the nature of the event and/or venue and the time when you are to demonstrate. Remembering, there is a marked difference to be allowed for between:
- Professionals and the general public.
- People in the morning and later in the day.
Define your topic and consider carefully what part/s of it you wish to convey. Remember little is more – do not try to pack-in too much subject matter.
Try to work out a time by each defined phase, and its associated explanation, and add this up to see how it fits-in with the overall time allocated to the demonstration.
Reflect on your target audience to determine the appropriate level at which you will pitch the content of the topic, are they:
- A specific and highly focused group who have a degree of knowledge and/or skills of the chosen topic but wish to advance.
- A group from one’s craft but who work on new-build and wish to learn about traditional tools, materials and skills.
- A select group from various professional disciplines within the industry.
- A wholly mixed group at a public event, open to all.
Be well prepared, read-up on your chosen topic to assist you in considering the important aspects that should be key parts of the demonstration and to utilise in preparing one’s own class notes or neatly copied (and credited!) as handouts.
Make a list of all the tools and assemble them, ensuring all are in serviceable condition and none could cause injury. Likewise make a list of materials that will be required and separate those you can provide from those you will request to be provided.
Reflect on the Health and Safety issues that surround your demonstration and make appropriate provision at the workstation. If necessary, prepare handouts for the participators.
Plan the demonstration very carefully by breaking it down into a series of logical practical steps leading to the completed task.
Assess and then organise your workstation to make it both ergonomically effective and give those watching and perhaps assisting maximum benefit.
Organise the layout of your tools and equipment so they are both ready at-hand for immediate use - and relocated when finished - and as a visual display (consider labels?) for the group to study.
Try to look clean and tidy – it inspires confidence in you.

Undertaking the Demonstration

When you are ready to start, politely call the group to order.
Try to face your group, if possible, when addressing them, and pitch your voice to ensure – and check - all can hear you.
Remember to talk to them: not at them! One should seek to inspire by the manner of the approach and by being engaging.
Do not keep looking at one person in the group – no matter how pretty or handsome! Cast your eyes around to both engage all and to gauge their attention and interest.
If you begin to feel you are losing them – perhaps they are struggling with an aspect of your subject, change tack and come at the subject from another angle and enquire if they now grasp it.
Introduce yourself and give a, ‘brief’ – 2 or 3 minutes maximum - overview of yourself.
Introduce the topic - with possibly a little piece of stimulating history background and related technology to set the subject in context – a maximum of 5 to 10 minutes
Relate briefly how you intend to demonstrate the topic and what you are expecting them to note or possibly participate in.
Give them handouts and a brief reminder of the potential Health and Safety hazards, and what to do in the event of an unfortunate problem.
Explain the first part of your demonstration and begin.
Sometimes it is not possible to face your group, perhaps you are plastering or pointing a wall and therefore they are seeing your back, it is then that an engaging explanation, perhaps a funny, subject-related incident, or invite a question and answer dialogue with the group; all of which is intended to retain their interest becomes vital to the overall success of the class.
As one finishes a task and gets ready for the next part of the sequence of demonstrations, face your group and briefly, but appropriately, explain the next task you are about to demonstrate and re-commence.
If you call in someone for assistance check that they are suitably dressed, level of skill, issue with goggles/gloves/mask and when they have completed their assistance, acknowledge by thanking them and leading group applause.
Remember, for the commencement of each phase of the overall demonstration, face your group and explain what you are about to do, why, and what one shouldn’t do, and emphasise what aspects they are particularly to watch-out for.
If it aids the effectiveness of the group’s involvement and learning outcomes from the demonstration, invite them to come over to inspect something close-up.
Upon successfully completing the final part of your demonstration draw it to its conclusion by:

Re-capping on the topic and those stages you established.
Inviting questions – if you don’t know the answer say so, but say you will endeavour to find the answer and get back to them, - then ensure you do. Never ‘bluff’ a group can see it a mile-off: and it reduces your hard-won credibility,
Thank them for participating and wish them well
Finally say you will be around to talk to whilst you are tidying-up.

Conclusion

Please bear in mind that all of the advice and points listed above are intended merely to be helpful hints, borne out of years of undertaking demonstrations by the writer: they are certainly not cast-iron rules.

Everyone is a unique individual with his or her own character. A style of demonstrating that suits one person – even if one greatly admires their particular approach and technique - may not necessarily suit them. So one must seek to try to find their own method/s of presenting in order to discover which one sits comfortably with their personality and natural demeanour, yet one that still brings about the learning outcomes desired from that demonstration.

Finally, someone who is new to demonstrating must never feel that they have failed, nor that they are not worthy to give a demonstration; especially if in their earliest forays into this arena they are not able to be so well organised. If they can engage and hold a group to get across to them the skill/s and knowledge that were intended as learning objectives at the outset of the presentation; then they have succeeded.

Misia Leonard Spotlight: Sierra Baker

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 21:43:00 GMT

The Misia Leonard Scholarship is a fund to help students, apprentices, and emerging professionals attend the International Preservation Trades Workshop (IPTW). Founded in 2016, this scholarship is named in memory of Misia Leonard. Misia served on the PTN Board of Directors and was a strong advocate for the preservation of our cultural heritage. For over 20 years, she worked for the City of New York, spending the last eight of those as Director of the Historic Preservation Office for the Department of Design and Construction. While serving on the PTN Board of Directors, she was instrumental in the development of AIA/CES program.

The Misia Leonard Scholarship was dedicated in her honor in 2016. Since then, up to five students and apprentices annually receive financial assistance to attend the IPTW. This has been a great avenue for emerging professionals to learn about different trades, meet craftspeople, and get engaged with PTN. The Scholarship is supported by proceeds from the annual auction at IPTW. You can support the PTN Scholarship Fund through:

Direct donations
Donating items, experiences, or packages to the auction
Bid on auction items

Leading up to IPTW 2024 Savannah, we will highlight the 2023 Misia Leonard recipients each month. Students, apprentices, and emerging professionals can submit an application for the 2024 round through July 31, 2024.

Sierra Baker

My name is Sierra Baker. I didn't have a background in preservation until I joined the Massachusetts Historic Preservation Corps. This 11 month AmeriCorps program is run through the Student Conservation Association and based in Braintree, MA. We complete historic preservation projects with a variety of partners, some of which are the National Parks of Boston and Department of Conservation and Recreation.

We are limited to completing work within MA state lines, so when my boss told me about IPTW I knew I had to go. I immediately filled out the Misia Leonard Scholarship application because I could tell it was a great opportunity and didn't want it to pass me by. I am so thankful to have received funds to travel to the conference which I couldn't have attended otherwise. I even used the funds to attend a full day pre-conference workshop on Cemetery Preservation led by the NPS Superintendent of the Historic Preservation Training Center.

It is difficult to count how many workshops I attended. My favorites were those in masonry, archeology, color and stain matching, and metal work. These were topics I was not expecting to learn about but am so happy I got to have my hands on.

My main goal at the conference was to form professional connections so when my current AmeriCorps term is done, I have options to join the preservation workforce. I am intrigued with HPTC and because the conference was hosted at their site, I had ample opportunities to talk with staff and learn about their experience in the field. I made the most of my time and asked for tips on applying for jobs and creating a federal resume. I am happy to say that because of those connections, just two months after the conference they offered me a job!

Attending IPTW was an unforgettable highlight of my AmeriCorp term and something I view as vital to my current career trajectory in the preservation field. I am grateful for the opportunity to have met and learned from countless masters of their craft. I hope to experience IPTW in the future and continue learning new skills.

Join a Committee

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 22:56:55 GMT

Hello Members!

Are you interested in contributing your skills and ideas to help advance our mission? Join a committee! Four committees have open spots for PTN members to volunteer:

Media and Communications
This committee maintains outward facing-communications about the organization. fosters communications between members, and evaluates media strategies and adapt/develop new approaches and strategies.

Membership and Development
This committee helps maintain and expand PTN membership; develop relationships with like-minded businesses, organizations and people; and develop new funding streams to the organization.

Education and Training
This committee organizes and administers training and educational events, coordinates educational delivery with instructors and demonstrators, and develops new training and educational opportunities.

Awards and Scholarships
This committee organizes, administers, and operates scholarship funds; coordinates the Askins Awards with the Askins Committee; and maintains, develops, and increases scholarship funds.

Committee members must be active PTN members in good standing, able to serve 1-year terms, and meet at least quarterly. Meetings can be virtual and schedules will be determined by the committee members. Find out more about these committees activities, learn expectations, and apply at the link below:

APPLY HERE

Askins Award Nominations Are Open!!

Joe Tokarsky — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 16:40:28 GMT

PTN is pleased to open the nomination process for the 2024 Askins Achievement Award! Nominations will be accepted through April 8th, at which time the nominations will be reviewed and voted on by the Askins Award Committee, a group composed of former awardees. Our 2024 awardee will be announced and award presented at the International Preservation Trades Workshop in Savannah, Georgia this October. Happy Nominating!

Click Here For Nomination Form

The Askins Achievement Award is named in honor of James (Jim) S. Askins, the founder of the National Park Service Historic Preservation Training Center. The award is given in recognition of outstanding contributions and accomplishments in the promotion, education, and application of preservation trade skills. The award has been presented annually by the Preservation Trades Network since 1998 at the International Preservation Trades Workshop (IPTW).

The Askins Achievement Award recognizes contributions over and above the noteworthy. The award criteria includes contributions to the preservation trades for: the continuance of traditional building skills, advocacy of training in preservation trades, practicing a building trade at master level of skill and knowledge, and extraordinary effort given to advancing the awareness of traditional building trade skills and knowledge.

The nominee should be an advocate of the trades from a trade’s background, and have contributed efforts above and beyond the norm to help move the trades’ community forward. The nominee should be a person who has helped raise the bar and challenged others to try harder. The Askins Achievement Award represents more than just quality work and good ethics it also means challenging others to work for the betterment of the community around them.

Guidelines and Nomination Procedure

1. Askins Achievement Award recipients do not have to be members of Preservation Trades Network.

2. Nominators for the Askins Achievement Award do not have to be members of the Preservation Trades Network and they do not have to be Award Recipients.

3. Recipients of the Askins Achievement Award are the group that administers the award, and selects future recipients.

4. The award was established to be distinct from and separate from the Preservation Trades Network Board of Directors.

5. The permanent award plaque listing previous winners is owned by the National Park Service Historic Preservation Training Center and shall be displayed and kept up-to-date by the HPTC at the HPTC Headquarters at Gambrill House, Frederick, MD. The Logo is loaned to PTN for use on the individual Award Plaque given to each year’s winner.

6. A recipient selected by the others shall take on the administration of the award on behalf of the Askins Achievement Award group.

7. The new recipient shall be contacted to ensure that the plaque is created in the manner desired by the recipient.

8. The criteria for the Askins Achievement Award are stated in the nomination form.

9. The Askins Achievement Award group shall solicit nominations from the Preservation Trades
Community at large.

10. The Askins Achievement Award group shall have the right by majority vote to approve or disapprove use of the Award for marketing or promotion by the Preservation Trades Network Board
of Directors.

11. The Askins Award Recipient shall have a nominator who has provided a written nomination form and is willing to introduce the recipient.

12. Announcement of the Askins Award Recipient shall be published in the PTNews or other media after the International Preservation Trades Workshop.

13. Announcement of the Askins Award Recipient before the International Preservation Trades Workshop is subject to a majority vote of the recipients.

14. The business of the Askins Achievement Award group may be conducted by conference call, direct meeting, or email. A quorum to conduct the business of the group shall be a majority of the recipients.

15. Nominations stand for one year. The nomination may re-submitted.

Obituary for former PTN president and board member Sarah M. Jackson

Mark Johnston — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 02:06:56 GMT

https://www.sandersmortuary.com/obituary/Sarah-Jackson

Sarah M. Jackson

April 27, 1981 ~ January 26, 2024 (age 42)

Sarah Jackson Obituary

To watch Sarah's memorial service please click here

Sarah M. Jackson, 42, of Trout Run, passed peacefully in her sleep on Friday, January 26, 2024, after her courageous battle with cancer.

Born April 27, 1981 in Williamsport, she was a daughter of the late Robert L. Jackson and Donna J. (Lose) Jackson of Trout Run.

Sarah's life, though shorter than we hoped, was lived to the fullest. Sarah graduated from Choctaw High School, Choctaw, OK, and then from Texas A&M with a Bachelor’s degree of Architecture in Environmental Design. She then went on to graduate with a Master’s degree in Historical Preservation from Savannah College of Art and Design. For 10 years, she worked for the United States Park Services in Natchitoches, LA and currently was working for General Services of the United States Government in Washington, D.C. as a Historical Preservation Specialist for the last five years.

Sarah left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will be cherished as a treasure in the story of their lives. She approached every day with a heart full of love and a soul ready to explore the beauty of the world. Above all, Sarah believed her greatest gift and accomplishment was her sweet daughter, Leigh.

She loved traveling, hiking, photography, entertaining and rescuing dogs. Over the years, Sarah opened her heart and home to rescue over 50 dogs, each one a cherished companion and a life saved by her kindness.

Surviving in addition to her mother, is her daughter, Leigh C. Jackson, a brother Jason Jackson (Jen Cathor) of Shippensburg, a niece Mackenzie Jackson, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and her fur-babies Lucy, Hank, and Penelope.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, February 17 at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond Street, Williamsport, followed by a memorial service at 3:30 p.m. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Trout Run Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers or food memorial contributions in Sarah’s name may be made to a scholarship fund that has been set-up for her daughter, donations may be made to Donna Jackson c/o Leigh Jackson Scholarship Fund, PO Box 222 Trout Run, PA 17771

Online condolences and a recording of the memorial service may be found on her memorial page at www.SandersMortuary.com

Passing of PTN Past President Sarah Marie Jackson

Mark Johnston — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 03:09:23 GMT

It is with great sadness that the Preservation Trades Network Board of Directors informs our members that Sarah Marie Jackson passed in her sleep on January 26, 2024 following a courageous battle with cancer.

Sarah served on the PTN Board for 7 years in nearly every executive position, most recently as President from 2018-2020. She proudly worked with Historic Environment Scotland for the Sterling, Scotland IPTW in 2019.

We will post more about Sarah and her work with PTN. If you would like more information, please see her Facebook page.

Donations can be made on Sarah’s behalf to her favorite shelter and charity FAUNA, PO Box 2552, Natchitoches, LA 71547.

We will miss you, Sarah.

PTN Board of Directors Candidates

Mark Johnston — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 16:42:02 GMT

Here are the applicants for the Preservation Trades Network board of directors openings. Please take some time to learn all about them and be prepared to vote!.

Mo Karnage

Karnage Construction LLC

I was genetically predisposed to a life of sawdust and old houses. My great grandpa founded on of the the architectural salvage places in town, and my grandpa and dad ran a cabinetry and millwork company. I learned how to use a tape measure before most kids learn how to read. I started my own company in 2014 and am now a Class A Licensed contractor with 12+ employees and a new old office building in Richmond. I worked in my 20s for various trades, including electricians, plaster folks, carpenters, and historic restoration specialists. I fell in love with old windows, and have just taken that and run with it. Preserving old houses is my jam and it suits my ethics as well. I'm on the Jr board for Historic Richmond and involved in their events. Projects I was the GC for won Golden Hammer awards (local historic preservation/construction award) in 2021 and 2022.

Why do you want to be on the board?

I'm a virgo. No, basically I want to dig in hard and grow my business and make it level up, which can not be done in a vacuum. A rising tide lifts all boats and in historic preservation there has to be cooperation and comradeship in order to keep us relevant, staffed, and up to snuff. I want to be a part of that! We need more people involved in this work and to form tighter bonds with preservation advocacy people, as well as engage in more public education. They aren't making any new old buildings.

What might you like to accomplish or have as a goal if elected to be a board member?

Increase participation in conferences and workshops, increase marketing. I'm pretty decent on Canva and would love to help get more images out there. I think making info graphics and how-to type sheets would be cool as heck.

Chad Nelson

Red Beard Restoration

Bio

Chad Nelson stumbled into preservation after he and his husband bought an old Victorian house with storm windows made of unmilled 2x4s and plexiglass. Wanting to preserve the home properly, Chad learned how to make wooden storm windows, with some bumps along the way. After connecting with other window professionals in his city of Des Moines, Iowa, and learning more about proper techniques and materials, his window restoration company, Red Beard Restoration, was born. He now specializes in full window restorations, Mon-Ray storm window installations and new wooden storm window builds. A board member of his historic neighborhood’s neighborhood association and his city’s Historic Preservation Commission, Chad is a vocal advocate of repairing over replacing, and of protecting an area’s sense of place and revitalizing communities through historic preservation.

Why do you want to be on the board?

My business would have never gotten off the ground without the amazing support and guidance of two other local window preservationists in my city. One of them gave me my first three clients, and the other answered (and continues to answer) every question I threw at her. It's now my turn to pay it forward. I can do that by being part of the Preservation Trades Network, which is building a much larger network full of people like those that helped me get started.

What might you like to accomplish or have as a goal if elected to be a board member?

I am admittedly a relatively new member of this organization, though I am extremely excited to be a part of it. My immediate goal would be to connect with the other board members to learn as much as I can about the inner workings of the board so I can best understand how to apply my skills and knowledge for the betterment of the organization. Beyond that, I would hope to use my previous professional background in journalism/public affairs to help spread the word of the Preservation Trades Network to as many people as possible.

Rebecca Torsell

Wittenberg University, Eastern Michigan University, Belmont College

Bio

I have a diverse background in the field of historic preservation that relates to multiple different facets. In my current position as the Director of Historic Preservation at the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, I struggle to find qualified preservation trades contractors, and I know the importance of supporting the historic trades. Prior to taking on my current role, I have had a number of positions as an historic tradesperson (contractor/subcontractor). My experiences range widely across the spectrum of preservation. In years past I’ve worked with Historic Corps as a Crew Leader which included living in a tent for 2 months while restoring an historic log mining camp at 11,000 feet in the San Jaun Mountains of Colorado. My career path also led me to Philadelphia where I worked for Kreilick Conservation, LLC as a project manager and conservator. Some of the more notable projects I worked on included the Grant Memorial in Washington D.C., The Second Bank of the United States, and the Cooper-Hewitt Smithsonian Museum of Design. I became very familiar with bronze conservation and my experiences led me to become a certified Professional member with the American Institute for Conservation. I’ve worked under and with wonderful mentors should as Jim Turner, David Gibney, and Patrick Kennedy. I have a great respect for the historic trades now currently in the role of Owner/Client, but for the majority of my career I served as the historic tradesperson. It has helped me to see how both sides need to come together to support the trades and the education of new tradespeople. It is my love of historic buildings, the sustainability of the practice of preservation, and my eagerness to always learn more that drives me. My education includes a Bachelor of Arts in Management and World Culture from Wittenberg University, a Master of Science in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University, and an Applied Associates of Science in Building Restoration and Preservation Technology from Belmont College. These are listed in the order received. I went back to school for my Associates after my master’s degree to acquire additional hands-on experience. I believe that my diversity of roles, experiences, and education will help me to serve the PTN board successfully

Why do you want to be on the board?

Over the course of many years, I’ve attended multiple conferences for a variety of networks/organizations. PTN’s conference, IPTW, was what I would consider the most valuable. It was deeply rooted in the trades and demonstrated the root of what we strive for, successful preservation. It was all possible because of the Board of Directors, and I’d like to help support these efforts.

Being a part of PTN’s Board of Directors gives me a chance to give more to the preservation trades and the struggle to keep growing them.

What might you like to accomplish or have as a goal if elected to be a board member?

I feel like I need to learn more before I can say a goal I would like to accomplish, but in general I would be interested in trying to expand membership and strengthening relationships with similar preservation organizations.

Daniel Totten

Talis Historic Restoration

Bio

Like most in the Historic trades, Dan never set out to be a restorer. He grew up in a farmhouse in the Hudson Valley of New York, where he spent most of his time playing basketball, then discovered art, which he pursued at Alfred University. After graduating he moved back to the Hudson Valley and worked a myriad of odd jobs and ended up farming for several years, and founded a Makerspace at a local community center. In 2020 he relocated to Buffalo and decided to get a Masters in Library Science. He then needed money so he got a job with a Window Restorer. With his eclectic experience and love for the old he quickly fell in love with the trade, and is still enthusiastically going at it (suffice to say he dropped out of grad school). He currently lives with his wife in Rochester, NY, and works for Talis Historic Restoration, where he manages site work and does commercial estimates (and will mill, glaze, scrape, or install sash at a moments notice).

Why do you want to be on the board?

My Restoration journey started with working under Steve Swiatt at Northwood Historic Restoration in Buffalo, NY. Steve would talk about the numerous workshops for local nonprofits he did, and the advice and conversations that he had with other restorers and people trying to get into the trade. After spending more time in the trade and attending WPA events and the most recent Window Preservation Standards Collaborative Summit, I realize that his openness to share his craft wasn't unusual. I have found this field full of people who love the work and want to spread information to as many as possible. Although I've only been restoring for 3 years, I now find myself wanting to give back in some capacity.

What might you like to accomplish or have as a goal if elected to be a board member?

While I've had experience being on the board of various clubs at college and I've worked within nonprofits to a limited extent, I've never been a board member of an actual organization. My main goal as a board member would be to make an effort to be fully present at meetings and be helpful towards progressing PTN goals, whether that is to create the annual IPTW, increase membership, or create newsletters. Overall, it seems like a great opportunity for me to grow my own skills in group work and leadership while creating awareness of the Preservation Trades.

Jake Jones

Medicine Wood LLC

Bio

Jake is the owner of Medicine Wood Heritage Restoration Co., located in St. Paul, Minnesota. His company offers various preservation services, including window restoration, plastering, project consultation, and more. Jake holds a BA in Religious Studies from Gustavus Adolphus College.

Jake enjoys growing organic vegetables, cooking, playing guitar, and spending time with his wife and daughter.

Why do you want to be on the board?

I am passionate about the preservation trades, and I believe my experience and skills may help further the PTN mission.

What might you like to accomplish or have as a goal if elected to be a board member?

I want to help grow PTN's audience and network and facilitate learning opportunities for the next generation of preservation trade workers.

Join the Board

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 01:22:43 GMT

APPLY HERE

Applications close December 1, 2023.

Are you interested in helping move the PTN mission forward? Join the Board of Directors! Applications are now open for positions beginning in 2024.

As 2023 comes to a close, we want to tank four outgoing board members for their commitment, service, and contributions to PTN over the last few years--Amanda Warren, Jane Griswold Raddochia, Jim Turner, and Leslie Price. While we are always remiss when dedicated board member close out their terms, we look forward to what new board members bring to the organization.

Candidates should have a vested interest in the PTN mission and vision. Board members are expected to:

Be a PTN member in good standing or become one;
Commit to a 3-year Board Term;
Attend a monthly virtual Board Meeting on the third Thursday at 7 pm EST;
Participate in one Committee;
Contribute at least one hour per week to board work in addition to board and committee meetings;
Attend the annual Face to Face Board Meeting;
Plan and attend the International Preservation Trades Workshop;
Have a basic familiarity with the internet and software functions;
Use assigned @ptn.org gmail account and respond to communications in a timely and professional manner;
Act as an official ambassador of and liaison for the Preservation Trades Network; and
Agree to and abide by the PTN Code of Ethics

Additionally, the Board of Directors is looking for people with skills or interest in learning any of the following:

Google Workspace for Nonprofits
Wild Apricot Member and Website Management
QuickBooks Online and budgeting
Design software like Canva or Photoshop
Communications and communications tools like eblasts, newsletters, website maintenance, and social media
Project management and event planning

Misia Leonard Scholarship Spotlight: Marian C. Feinberg

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 18:00:00 GMT

The Misia Leonard Scholarship is a fund to help students, apprentices, and emerging professionals attend the International Preservation Trades Workshop. Founded in 2016, this scholarship is named in memory of Misia Leonard. Misia served on the PTN Board of Directors and was a strong advocate for the preservation of our cultural heritage. For over 20 years, she worked for the City of New York, spending the last eight of those as Director of the Historic Preservation Office for the Department of Design and Construction. While serving on the PTN Board of Directors, she was instrumental in the development of AIA/CES program.

The Misia Leonard Scholarship was dedicated in her honor in 2016. Since then, five students and apprentices annually receive financial assistance to attend the IPTW. This has been a great avenue for emerging professionals to learn about different trades, meet craftspeople, and get engaged with PTN. The Scholarship is supported by proceeds from the annual auction at IPTW. Five different people were awarded scholarships to attend the 2022 IPTW at Belmont College. In the lead up to the 25th IPTW, we will feature one of their stories each month. This month we feature Maura Smith.

This year, up to 25 students, apprentices, and emerging professionals will able to attend the IPTW for free. Those students can submit an application for waived registration here, and also apply for the Misia Leonard Scholarship. Consider donating to the PTN Scholarship Fund through direct donations and donating to the annual auction.

As a Historic Preservation M.S. graduate student at Eastern Michigan University (EMU) in Ypsilanti, Michigan I am being exposed to preservation history, theory, and some practice yet when I became aware of this scholarship opportunity, I felt immediately drawn to what this workshop might represent in my journey and the doors it might open.

Upon arrival, after visiting with the other scholarship recipients, I learned that those chosen, represented a nice cross-section of the burgeoning preservation field. I had a great time learning more about what inspired their interest in the field, what type of training and work experience they had achieved, and what types of career aspirations and goals they had. I have found that sitting around discussing freely ideas and real-life experiences with likeminded individuals can be one of the most inspiring and motivating practices of all!

I had a blast connecting with EMU alumni (some are also Belmont graduates) and picking their brain about their current work in the preservation field as well as how the trades benefited and enhanced their marketability and knowledgebase. The name tags which we all wore made it easier for an introverted person like myself to just walk up to and speak to other attendees. I managed to make several contacts in the field who encouraged me to reach out with further questions or to stay in touch. I attended several workshops with current Belmont students and enjoyed chatting with them after sessions to learn more about what their trade course work and specializations entailed.

I attended as many workshops as I could manage over my stent at the event! In addition to taking notes, video clips, and photographs, I did participate several times in the hands-on aspect of presentations which just drove home the experience. The experiential nature of an activity resonates with me since I learn on a number of levels: see, hear, do. I come from a contract archaeologist background (cultural resource management work for over 10 years) and I recognize that you can talk and study about how to do something until you are blue in the face but until you roll up your sleeves and get dirty the concepts are just floating around in your head.

I enjoyed the sessions on steel square, timber framing repairs, makers mark, rock & a hard place, slate, models & casting, stucco, wood windows, steel windows, Zen masonry, etc. The keynote speaker, George Walker inspired me to look at geometry and design differently.

I attended the stained-glass alumni exhibit at the Sand Crest Barn and enjoyed explored the grounds. I spoke with event sponsors and learned about potential volunteer and job opportunities across the United States within both non-profits and government entities.

The Scottish Rite Building was a lovely place to hold the final workshop event and sets a precedence for what preservation and restoration (adaptive re-use) can accomplish. Bringing an older structure back to life can inspire a downtown block, street, or neighborhood to join in the effort to save their beloved community – One building at a time. The annual awards dinner and auction was fun to attend and entertaining to boot! I learned a great deal about holding a large-scale event and fundraising effort. These experiences will help me when I re-enter the workforce after I finish graduate school and will aid my ability to advise Laurel Valley Plantation in their efforts to preserve their vernacular structures, raise funds for restoration, and increase education and outreach.

Thank you again for choosing me as a Misia Leonard Scholarship recipient and for supporting women in the preservation trades! I will always remember this experience fondly and my hope is to attend future PTN events.

Sincerely,

Marian C. Feinberg

Misia Leonard Scholarship Spotlight: Megan McPherson

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 19:50:56 GMT

Megan McPherson at the National Council for Public History, presenting her research on George Washington Carver Park.

Megan McPherson

My name is Megan McPherson. I am currently working to finish up my Masters in Historic Preservation from the University of Georgia. While at UGA I have learned a lot about preservation. However, hands on preservation opportunities are limited. After working with Bill Hole and Patrick Kennedy in California in the summer of 2021 at Redwood National Park, they encouraged me to attend the International Preservation Trades Workshop to dive into the preservation trades world. I’m incredibly grateful to have been awarded the Misa Leonard Scholarship which allowed me to travel to the workshop.

Attending the International Preservation Trades Workshop introduced me to a whole new sector of preservation. I learned ample new skills about the trades and how to restore parts of buildings. I attended several interesting workshops including terrazzo, slate roofing, blacksmithing, plaster, wood window restoration, steel window restoration, and masonry. Watching the demonstrators work on their craft was fascinating. It was amazing to learn from people who are so passionate about their work.

During the workshops and time in between, it was great to get to know the other workshop attendees. As someone who does not have a strong background in the preservation trades, people were incredibly eager to help explain things during the conference. While most of this conference was unchartered territory, I feel as though I left the workshop with a strong group to support me along this new journey. While this workshop was my first introduction into the preservation trades, I believe it was an important and necessary step for my career. Making memories and connections with the community of the Preservation Trades Network was incredibly valuable to me and I’m looking forward to future ITPWs.

Misia Leonard Scholarship Spotlight: Carrie Miller

Wed, 24 May 2023 18:05:35 GMT

The Misia Leonard Scholarship was dedicated in her honor in 2016. Since then, five students and apprentices annually receive financial assistance to attend the IPTW. This has been a great avenue for emergining professionals to learn about different trades, meet craftspeople, and get engaged with PTN. The Scholarship is supported by proceeds from the annual auction at IPTW. Five different people were awarded scholarships to attend the 2022 IPTW at Belmont College. In the lead up to the 25th IPTW, we will feature one of their stories each month. This month we feature Maura Smith.

Carrie Miller

A little over a month ago I was in route to the annual PTN auction, which is final event of IPTW. I was just four months into a complete career change, and attending IPTW was really my first exposure to the preservation trades and the incredible people who keep them alive. I remember thinking about how bizarre it was to already feel so comfortable with and understood by people I had just met days before. It’s rare for me to meet people that share my passion to preserve and restore the built history around us. Many of the fears and hesitance I had upon entering a new field of work simply melted away at IPTW; the resounding message I received was that I am welcomed into this community, and that I will have an important role in this community as I learn and perfect my craft.

The value of being able to see an expert craftsperson explain, share stories, and demonstrate their experience and skill was such a joy and privilege. After attending my first workshop (Terrazo by Sarel Venter), I felt like a kid in a candy store. Not every person’s “candy store” happens to be work-related, and I realized in that moment how incredibly lucky I was! The most difficult quickly became choosing which workshops to go to – I would’ve gone to all of them twice if possible!

Because woodworking and construction have comprised the majority of my prior hands-on experience, I intentionally tried to attend the demonstrations that I had little to no experience in: slate roofing, forging, models and casting, steel windows, wood windows, stucco repairs, and stone masonry. Each demonstrator offered an incredibly specialized perspective and gave ample space for questions. I even got the opportunity to try my hand at reglazing windows, cutting slate, and carving stone.

As I recently became a conservation technician working with a variety of materials on historic buildings and public art, this information and these connections have been priceless for me. I refer to my notes and videos of the demonstrations from IPTW at least twice a week. The continuous novelty of the projects I am tasked with at work are far less nerve-racking knowing that I have access to a community so willing to share their experiences and advice with newcomers to the field like myself.

I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity attend this year’s IPTW as a receiver of the Misia Leonard scholarship. I am especially grateful to PTN’s President Andrea Sevonty who welcomed me to visit her workshop to learn about her work, as well as encourage me to attend IPTW. This experience has confirmed that I am absolutely in the right career path, which is something that I did not expect to receive. I look forward to continuing my membership with PTN and expanding my knowledge, network, and skillset at next year’s IPTW!

Dear PTN Board Members:

One of those key people was Andrea Sevonty, who not only welcomed me to visit her stained glass workshop but also encouraged me to attend ITPW. Nothing has been more affirming for me than my experience attending ITPW.

THANK YOU – FROM CARRIE

Call For Demonstrators-Round Two

Joe Tokarsky — Thu, 04 May 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Hey Craftspeople!

Round Two of our Call For Demonstrators IPTW 2023 is here!

The Preservation Trades Network is looking for craft demonstrators to take part in the 2023 International Preservation Trades Workshop (IPTW) at the Historic Preservation Training Center in Frederick, Maryland.

Please complete and submit this Application to Demonstrate, or send all application information in email form to info@ptn.org. If your application is selected, you will receive free entry into this unique, 3 day event. Before filing this form, demonstrators must review the Call For Demonstrators to see important details regarding this event.

Thanks!

IPTW 2023

Thursday September 7 - Saturday September 9, 2023

Historic Preservation Training Center

6129 Butterfly Lane, Frederick, Maryland

New PTN Executive Board

Sat, 15 Apr 2023 18:10:41 GMT

New PTN Executive Board

At PTN's semi-annual face-to-face Board Of Directors meeting this March in Frederick, Maryland, the new executive board was reconstituted. The current executive board is as follows:

President - Joe Tokarsky
Vice President - Mark Johnston
Secretary - Natalie Henshaw
Treasurer - Phil Mark

Please welcome our new e-board as they serve the needs of PTN in the coming year. Stay tuned for news, updates, and interaction about and from the full PTN board of directors and other members through our website, emails, newsletter, virtual happy hours, and in person this September at our signature event, The International Preservation Trades Workshop!

Misia Leonard Scholarship Spotlight: Maura Smith

Sat, 25 Mar 2023 17:47:40 GMT

The Misia Leonard Scholarship was dedicated in her honor in 2016. Since then, five students and apprentices annually receive financial assistance to attend the IPTW. This has been a great avenue for emergining professionals to learn about different trades, meet craftspeople, and get engaged with PTN. The Scholarship is supported by proceeds from the annual auction at IPTW. Five different people were awarded scholarships to attend the 2022 IPTW at Belmont College. In the lead up to the 25th IPTW, we will feature one of their stories each month. This month we feature Maura Smith.

Maura Smith

Let me begin by thanking PTN for affording me the opportunity to attend the 2022 IPTW conference by awarding me with the Misia Leonard scholarship. As a beginning professional, having the opportunity to interact and study with experts in the field is priceless. While my education at Belmont College laid a solid foundation for a career in the traditional trades, there is only so much that can be learned in a classroom setting. Starting out in a new field can be rather daunting at times, especially when there is a lack of direct mentorship. When encountering new or unanticipated problems, the troubleshooting process often involves much trial and error. Having the ability to ask an experienced tradesperson what to do in these situations is a lifesaver.

I was thrilled to have the chance to watch many of my idols work, and assumed I would glean some new insights through observation; however, I did not expect the workshops to be so interactive. I was able to ask loads of questions that have been keeping me up at night! Perhaps the most surprising theme was that many world-renowned masters of their craft did not consider themselves to be masters at all. Every person I spoke with mentioned that there is always more to learn and each project presents a distinctive set of challenges. Further, they were eager to divulge their most prized tips and tricks. This culture of sharing one's knowledge and experience was quite unique and something that is seldom seen elsewhere.

I am extremely grateful to have been given the opportunity to attend the IPTW conference. I have gained an understanding of many new techniques that I may not have grasped otherwise. I engaged with a wide variety of professionals in the field, each of whom dispensed valuable wisdom and advice. The entire experience was quite momentous and I look forward to the next one!

Call for Demonstrators - IPTW 2023

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 18:52:51 GMT

The Preservation Trades Network is seeking demonstrators to participate in IPTW 2023. “Silver Edition” is the theme for the 25th International Preservation Trades Workshop, to be held at the Historic Preservation Training Center building at 6129 Butterfly Lane, Frederick, Maryland from Thursday, September 7th through Saturday, September 9th, 2023. Additionally there may be a pre-conference workshop and/or community day workshop during the week of the event. Evening activities will be held in downtown Frederick, Maryland, including an opening night reception on Wednesday, September 6th; PTN Pub Crawl on Thursday, September 7th, and Banquet/Auction on Saturday, September 9th. In addition to the outstanding tradespeople from around the globe, we will be showcasing local artisans and helping them connect to a wider network of preservation professionals.

Being a demonstrator or presenter at an International Preservation Trades Workshop is a great way to share your skills and knowledge and increase your visibility as a leader in the preservation trades. Demonstrators should have a strong background in the traditional building trades and the ability to convey their techniques and skills in a way that contributes to the understanding and practice of their specific trade. Demonstrations should highlight the diversity, vitality and relevance of the traditional trades, with emphasis on historic preservation and/or restoration of cultural resources. The IPTW is an interdisciplinary event designed to attract participants of many backgrounds, ages and skill levels including tradespeople, allied disciplines, students and interested members of the public.

Setup will be on Wednesday, September 6th, and demonstrations will be held on Thursday, September 7th through Saturday, September 9th. This year we will have up to 25 demonstrators with approximately 10 tracks covering masonry, plaster, windows and doors, joinery, carpentry and timber framing, roofing, metal work, decorative finishes, design, and business. You will need to demonstrate at least twice and will have the option to specify your preference if desired, although we cannot guarantee a particular slot until the demonstrator schedule is finalized.

The IPTW will be following all federal, state, local, and other necessary health and safety protocols in order to provide the safest event for all present. It is the responsibility of all demonstrators and attendees to follow the stated safety protocols of IPTW while at the conference. IPTW may also be supplemented or supplanted by a virtual version of the conference, depending on current CDC guidelines and other related factors at the time of the conference. In the event that it is not possible to safely hold an in-person event, demonstrators will be notified as soon as possible and a virtual event will be planned, to be enjoyed by attendees unable to be physically present at the conference.

All demonstrations must break down and be clear of the venue prior to the Saturday evening dinner and auction. Full details will be provided in the course of your acceptance. All demonstrator applications are due by Monday, March 20th, 2023, and should be submitted through the application form:

APPLY HERE

Alternatively, all application information can be sent to info@ptn.org.

Selected sessions will be notified by March 27th.

Thank You!

Askin Award Nominations Open

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 19:23:36 GMT

Nominations for the 2023 Askins Achievement Award will open between March 10-April 14, 2023 by midnight EST.

The Askins Achievement Award is named in honor of James S. (Jim) Askins, founder of the National Park Service Historic Preservation Training Center and recognizes contributions over and above the noteworthy. The award criteria includes contributions to the preservation trades for: the continuance of traditional building skills, advocacy of training in preservation trades, practicing a building trade at master level of skill and knowledge, and extraordinary effort given to advancing the awareness of traditional building trade skills and knowledge. Follow the links below to learn more about the award or to nominate someone.

Submit a Nomination >>

View Past Award Recipients >>

Board Update: February 2023

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 19:28:09 GMT

The Preservation Trades Network’s President, Amanda Starcher Warren, has taken a leave of absence due to an illness in her family. The PTN Board looks forward to when she is able to join us again.

Andrea Sevonty is serving as our Acting President; Joe Tokarsky, as our Acting Vice-President.

The Board will meet this March 24-25th for the annual face-to-face Board meeting in Frederick, Maryland, to review organization status, development and event planning for IPTW.

Stay tuned for IPTW updates!

Misia Leonard Scholarship Spotlight: Corbet Walser

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 19:30:31 GMT

Five different people were awarded scholarships to attend the 2022 IPTW at Belmont College. In the lead up to the 25th IPTW, we will feature one of their stories each month. This month we feature Corbet Walser. Consider donating to the PTN Scholarship Fund through direct donations and donating to the annual auction.

Corbet Walser

After nearly two years of global upheavals, at long last we converged on a grassy hill on the Allegheny Plateau in verdant eastern Ohio. Like Virgil and Dante, my father-in-law and I had journeyed through the dark and tempestuous night, driving from Boston in an ill-conceived long haul. We arrived in St. Clairsville with the sun; bleary-eyed, exhausted, but teeming with excitement for the days ahead.

My father-in-law is Steve Schuyler, the bookseller, and as we unloaded his wares, Steve introduced me to Dave Mertz, whose permanent smile and twinkling eyes betrayed a singularly winning spirit. I compare Steve to Virgil not merely because he is a veteran man of letters with whom I endured a turbulent journey, but also because he introduced me to so many noteworthies, his old friends, the founding pillars of PTN.

Although the weather was quite overcast, and at times even rainy, by fits and starts it improved before reaching a vernal climax on Saturday. In the intervening days, we were entertained and enlightened by numerous presentations and demonstrations.

As they are the furthest from my own training, I was especially impressed by the plaster casting, terrazzo and scagliola. The easy, unpretentious tone of the demonstrators belied the intricacy of their creations, but was echoed by their common refrain: "Do not be afraid to try this in your own work." To see titans deign to teach us mere mortals is quite the sight.

And sights there were, galore. I saw a slate roofer drive a hundred copper nails and not bend a single one. A thatcher hefted a sheaf of reeds and wielded a hobnailed mallet as his forebears had millenia before. And I was ever drawn back to the blacksmiths' forge, watching them ply a trade as old as time, whose theories modern science has vindicated as much as improved upon.

Yet for all of the reverence for the past so natural to our calling, there was still an overtone of Spring, of those things yet to come. Among heads grown heavy with decades of dear-bought experience there shone the young faces of new-minted preservationists, eager to inherit the grand tradition to which we have devoted our lives.

The meteorological jewel that was Saturday afternoon gave way to the emotional zenith of the banquet. It was held in the magnificent Scottish Rite Cathedral, in Wheeling, West Virginia, a town home to some of the finest bridges I saw all weekend, and I was staying with a friend in Pittsburgh. Hearts long quarantined opened like lilies to the heat, displaying the true marks of friendships (and dare I say, professional rivalries?), and as evening turned to night, the dinner mounted to an uproar of giving. Items were given up for auction, giving hands placed generous bids which would enable next year's conference, and all gave hearty farewells and promises to see each other then.

Again, thank you for everything. I had an amazing time and can't wait for the next IPTW.

2023 Board of Directors Election Results By Andrea Sevonty

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 19:33:41 GMT

PTN is excited to welcome Jeff Larry, John McRitchie and John Rodgers to the Board of Directors! Check out their full biographies on the Board of Directors page.

Jeff Larry is a Preservation Manager at President Lincoln's Cottage and past IPTW demonstrator. He is based in Maryland, USA. John McRitchie is a Preservation Carpenter based in Scotland. John Rodgers is a Window Preservation Specialist based in Missouri, USA.

If you have not had a chance to meet the new board members in person or through social media join us at the up coming virtul happy hours and of course the 25th International Preservation Trades Workshop this September 7-9th in Frederick, Maryland!