My name is Matthew Simmons, and I have had a varied career path that has taken me from Woodworking to photography to firefighting to woodworking.
My love of photography began in high school and continued through college, where I studied the art and honed my skills. After graduation, I had the opportunity to teach photography, which I loved. I also worked as a professional photographer, shooting weddings, rally races, and touring with the Moscow ballet.
While I enjoyed photography, I was also drawn to the challenge and excitement of wildland firefighting. For 12 years, I worked as a Hotshot, fighting fires using fire engines, bulldozers, and helicopters. The experience taught me the importance of teamwork, resilience, and the power of nature.
Eventually, I decided to leave firefighting and explore other passions. I landed a job managing the milling department at an urban lumber company in Los Angeles, where I discovered a new love for woodworking. Working with designers, architects, and landscape architects, I helped build and sculpt custom pieces from the local trees that were collected from around Los Angeles.
My background in photography, firefighting, and woodworking has given me a unique perspective and set of skills that I bring to my work. I am passionate about creating beautiful, functional pieces that tell a story and reflect the natural beauty of the world around us.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my website, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like to discuss a potential project.