Watched a new guy at the shop cut a 36-inch tempered panel without a straightedge guide yesterday.

He just freehanded it with the cutter and now we're out a $400 piece because the break was so jagged it's useless, so when did you all start making that a non-negotiable rule for the rookies?

2 comments

2 Comments

evannelson24d ago

Man, that's brutal. Makes me wonder about the training process itself. Did anyone actually show him the right way first, or just hand him the tool? I've seen guys get thrown into tasks with zero demo, just a "go cut that". It's not just about rules, it's about making sure the basic skills are taught before the expensive material hits the bench. A five minute walkthrough could have saved that whole panel.

hart.ryan24d ago

Totally get what you mean. Used to think it was all on the guy to figure it out, you know? But seeing stuff like this happen changes your mind. It's not just about telling someone the rule, it's showing them the feel of the tool and the material. That quick demo you mentioned is everything. Saves money and keeps people from feeling like they messed up big time right out of the gate.