In this episode, host Jacob Edmond sits down with Adam Kessler, Design Engineer at SPM Design and former Education Manager at AWFS, to explore what it really means to engineer one of a kind projects. From custom millwork and themed conference rooms to waterfalls, sculptures, 3D printed components and immersive installations, Adam shares how creativity and engineering come together to solve problems that have no standard solution.
Drawing from a career that spans furniture design, project management, education and manufacturing, Adam discusses why hands on experience matters, how emerging technologies like 3D printing are changing the industry, and what the next generation of millwork professionals needs to succeed. Whether you are an engineer, designer, student or shop owner, this conversation is packed with practical lessons on problem solving, innovation and continuous learning.
About Our Guest
Adam Kessler is a Design Engineer at SPM Design, where he works on highly customized architectural and experiential projects that blend engineering with creative design. Before joining SPM Design, Adam served as Education Manager at AWFS, leading the Fresh Wood student competition and helping connect the next generation of woodworkers with the industry. He holds a degree in Furniture Design and brings experience in estimating, project management, product development and engineering. His passion for learning and tackling unique challenges has made him a respected voice in custom manufacturing and workforce development.
What You’ll Learn
- Why building furniture by hand creates better engineers and designers.
- How Adam’s journey from furniture design student to Design Engineer shaped his approach to problem solving.
- Why every custom project requires balancing creativity with practical engineering.
- How SPM Design uses Rhino CAD, 3D printing and laser cutting to bring unique concepts to life.
- Why understanding shop processes is just as important as creating accurate drawings.
- How engineers solve challenges involving sculptures, waterfalls, themed conference rooms and other unconventional projects.
- The growing role of 3D printing in custom fabrication, prototyping and finished installations.
- Why visiting factories, trade shows and manufacturing facilities can accelerate your career.
- The importance of exposing students to woodworking, manufacturing and real world production early in their education.
- Why continuous learning and adapting to new technologies will always be essential for future millwork professionals.
Final Thoughts
Adam’s career is proof that the best engineers never stop learning. Whether he’s designing custom furniture, engineering themed environments, or mentoring the next generation through AWFS, his approach has always been the same. Stay curious, embrace new challenges, and never lose sight of how ideas become reality.
As technology continues to evolve, the engineers who thrive will be those who understand both design and manufacturing. Adam reminds us that creativity and technical knowledge are not separate skills. Together, they create the most innovative solutions.
Where to Learn More
Adam Kessler on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-kessler-583b8a122/
AWFS Fair
https://awfsfair.org/
