Driskell
Adjunct Faculty
Contact Information
Phone: (714) 772-9006 or (714) 588-6711
E-mail: jdriskell@cerritos.edu
Web: http://www.cerritos.edu/jdriskell
In 1995, after retiring from 32 years in the defense/computer industry, Jim became very passionate about what had previously been a hobby: woodturning. He spent most of 1996 making nearly 200 pieces many of which were sold at places like Colburn Schwartz in Beverly Hills; Alan Ladd’s in Palm Springs; Sun West Gallery in Prescott, Arizona; the California Store at Knott’s Berry Farm and various craft and art shows.
From 1997 through 2000, Jim had the opportunity to share his enthusiasm and techniques with others by developing and teaching a woodturning program at the Woodworkers Club (formerly in Santa Ana). This experience working with small classes allowed him to build the curriculum and to create the teaching style that became the basis for the Introduction to Woodturning Class here at Cerritos College. His class became an instant success and turning has filled at least two sections each semester since the summer of 1999 and additional faculty was hired to meet the demand. The woodturning portion of the program now includes an advanced polychromatic and closed form turning class. Work from this advanced class can be seen in the WMT 218 sections of this site.
Jim’s teaching philosophy is to make turning fun. After a short lecture and demonstration, he gives students one on one attention to help them master the necessary skill to create a passion of their own.
Jim has a BS in electronic engineering from Northrop University.
Stay Connected