Dillan Wendtland| Construction Assistant / Shop Specialist

Dillan started building with Legos as a child and never lost interest in making things. He eventually moved from plastic blocks to solid wood, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s wooden contraptions.

“I like creating things that I can put more of myself into,” Dillan explains. One of his recent personal projects was converting a van to make it livable. “I watched a lot of van-life videos and figured out how to fit a full-size heated shower and a bed in there. It took me about six months. I’m still living in it two years later while I go to the U of M,” he says. “As much as I like seeing happy homeowners after we finish a project at NewStudio, the freedom of van life makes me think about not ever having a house myself.”

Dillan appreciates the hands-on opportunities and real-world experience at NewStudio. Custom projects have become his specialty. “Most everything I do involves woodworking of some kind—custom windows, floating shelves, access-panel cabinets. I like the variety and the high expectations of quality craftsmanship.”

It’s not just the projects that have impressed him. Dillan enjoys the positive atmosphere at NewStudio, too. “I’ve never felt so welcomed at a job. It’s a good place to be.”

Favorite Office Supply: Sticky notes

Someday, I Will… Travel the world

What Most People Don’t Know About Me: is a secret

Most Cherished Item I Own: Earbuds

Where I’d Like To Visit Next: Japan

Education:
Bach. Design in Arch., University of Minnesota