Jerill Vance Woodworks

Jerill Vance Biography

I was born and raised in West Virginia where I learned carpentry skills at an early age by assisting my grandfather and father. At the age of 14 I rode my bicycle to my first paying job as a carpenter helper during the summer months. I worked every summer with various builders until I took a full time job as a carpenter in 1975.

In 1977 I got my first router, a wife and a new career. Although I began working in the chemical industry in research and development, woodworking continued to be a major part of my life. I set up a small shop in the basement of the first house I built in 1979. I have continued to expand and move my shop 3 times since then.

In 1990 I joined the newly formed Valley Woodworkers of WV and I joined Society of American Period Furniture Makers in 2005 as well as the Mountaineer Wood Turners in 2011. From 1990 to 1993 I traveled the craft circuit in West Virginia and sold quality gift items I made in my shop. I was awarded “outstanding booth ” at the Mason County Craft Show in 1993.

In 2009, after more than 32 years in the chemical industry, I left and enrolled in college. I obtained an Associate of Applied Science degree in Fine Woodworking from New River Community and Technical College in Lewisburg, WV in December of 2010.

I am now able to enjoy the profession of custom designing and building furniture for clients. I also enjoy mentoring or teaching new woodworkers.