Dale Keith is a woodworker, Fuse33 instructor and wheelchair user specializing in artisan breadboards and cutting boards. He came upon Fuse33 while getting gas at the Calgary Co-op across the road from the space. The giant purple hippo sculpture displayed in front of the building caught his eye, so he decided to swing by to see what Fuse33 was all about. For Dale, this encounter came at the perfect time in his life. After being laid off from his mentoring position at the Drop-in Center, teaching trade and life skills, Dale found a new community at Fuse33 and was able to continue to inspire others in the woodworking field. 

Dale discovered a creative environment that met his needs with accessible equipment where he can keep his mind and hands busy. His work is primarily centered around more miniature wooden creations, such as utensils and boards, as these projects align best with his mobility. He repurposes discarded wood scraps to create unique pieces with a signature mosaic look to them.

The space’s many mediums and artistic individuals have helped him expand his craft to places he couldn’t have imagined before his involvement with the makerspace. For example, he’s incorporated laser cutters in his board creation process, as custom engraving or custom shaping adds a personal flair for clients and elevates the overall look. Recently, someone showed Dale a photo of a tortilla press, and simply based on that, he created a stunning handmade press out of wood, using the laser cutter to engrave a design. 

He finds that being in a creative community greatly benefits his mental health, as the endless possibilities at Fuse33 provide him with a limitless creative outlet. Through Fuse33, Dale’s connection to a diverse network of talented makers amplifies the potential of every concept or business inquiry that comes his way.

As a valued member for several years, Dale embodies the community learning spirit. He is passionate about helping others realize their creative potential while breaking down the barriers that might hold them back, a philosophy that Fuse33 was built on. Dale demonstrates this through his cutting board classes in the space, showing others that woodworking is more accessible than one might think. Dale often extends his knowledge to other members and helps at various events.