What Is the Workshop Chronicles?

Welcome to the Workshop Chronicles!
What is the Workshop Chronicles you ask? The Workshop Chronicles is a space I’ve created that allows me to showcase my do-it-yourself spirit, document projects, and share with you applicable skills through project-based learning. Any idea that’s born and carried out within the walls of my workshop you will find here on this blog.

Why?
Because at any given moment I have dozens of DIY project ideas rattling around in my head that I want to bring to fruition. Over the years I’ve designed and built everything from chicken coops to motorcycles. As I’ve grown my skill set, I’ve found that there’s no shame in the old adage of being a “jack of all trades.” Actually, I believe that increasing your skillset paves the way for you to become a better problem solver and innovative thinker in your everyday life. It’s my hope that by following along with any of the DIY projects or plans that I share here - you’ll proudly become a jack or jill of all trades too.

How will the Workshop Chronicles work?
​Through my blog and YouTube channel, you can follow along with multiple ongoing projects I have happening in my workshop, ranging from home renovation to aviation to engine design. With a ridiculous level of attention to detail and the ability to deliver technical content in easily digestible and actionable ways, you’ll be learning along with me so you can also do it yourself. Projects will be broken out and organized by topic, into chronicles, so that each project can be reviewed from start-to-finish. Videos, pictures, and detailed writing will be used to showcase projects as they progress.

Who am I?

​I’m Paul Olesen, a powersports junkie, aviation enthusiast and pilot, internal combustion engine expert, self-admittedly confused advocate of sustainability, home remodeler, metal worker, woodworker, degreed engineer, author, husband, traveler, designer, and constructor of many things. 

My formal education consists of a short stint at the University of Minnesota followed by a move to the United Kingdom where I earned a degree in Motorcycle Engineering from the University of Wales - Trinity St. David.

Professionally, I’ve worked for the man at S&S Cycle, Erik Buell Racing, and most recently Deltahawk, an aviation engine company, where I left my post as Director of Engineering. 

Informally, I’ve been working with my hands and mind since I was a child, learning new things and taking on new projects regularly. I also consider myself an avid entrepreneur, having run my own handyman business for several years. Presently I run my eCommerce business DIY Moto Fix as well as co-own a farm, Green Willow Homestead, with my wife.

What’s coming first?
​I’ve got a lot of projects in their infancy that I’m looking forward to kicking off - including a DIY standing desk design, a home addition that I’m planning and will break out into smaller projects, and a snow bike design/build that’ll come later and at a slower pace. 

​I hope you’re as excited as I am for all the cool projects that are just around the corner! Be sure to sign up for my emails so you can stay up to date!

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