CRAFT CONNECTIONS: Meet Blake

At McKenzie Craft, the work speaks for itself—but it’s the people behind it who define our identity. From seasoned fabricators to those who’ve grown into the trade right here in our shop, every team member plays a critical role in delivering the precision and quality we’re known for. Rooted in collaboration, curiosity, and attention to detail, our culture supports both individual growth and collective excellence. From detailed custom elements to large-scale architectural fabrication, McKenzie Craft is driven by a team passionate about quality and innovation.

CRAFT CONNECTIONS is a look inside that team. Each edition highlights the people who shape our work from the inside out—where they came from, what drives them, and how they contribute to the process. Whether they entered the trade with years of experience or discovered their skillset on the shop floor, these are the makers behind the details.

We sat down with Blake to learn a bit more about his time with McKenzie Craft, learning in the workshop, and working on some of South Florida’s finest millwork projects…

Tell me a bit about your background—how did you first get into fabrication or this line of work?

I actually come from a sales and management background, which is pretty different from what I do now. A good friend of mine mentioned that an up-and-coming fabrication company was hiring, so I took a shot and applied. I didn’t know exactly what I was getting into, but once I stepped into the shop, I realized how much I enjoyed the pace, the physicality, and the attention to detail that this kind of work demands. It didn’t take long before I knew I wanted to grow in this field.

What path brought you to McKenzie Craft?

I originally started on the construction side of McKenzie, working in the field. I was looking for more room to grow, and after a good conversation with Vince (CEO, McKenzie Craft), I transitioned over to the Craft side of the company. That’s where things really opened up for me. It’s been a better fit all around, more opportunity to get hands-on, learn the machines, and find where I add the most value.

Can you describe your current role here, what do you handle day-to-day?

I like to think of myself as the shop’s Swiss Army knife, but officially, my role is Machinist. I run and maintain the CNC machines that cut parts for nearly every job that comes through here. Most of the work our carpenters assemble or install starts with cuts I produce, so precision and consistency are key. I’m constantly checking tolerances, programming tool paths, and making sure materials are prepped exactly right so the rest of the team can build without surprises.

Are there any materials, tools, or processes you specialize in or particularly enjoy working with?

The CNC is definitely where I feel most in my element. It’s a powerful tool, extremely versatile, and it opens up so many creative possibilities. While we work with a range of materials, I enjoy cutting plywood and MDF the most, since they're the foundation for much of what we fabricate. Every job is different, but seeing something go from digital drawing to a clean, exact cut on the machine is always satisfying.

What’s been a standout project for you at McKenzie Craft so far, and why?

Pier Sixty-Six was a big one for me. We worked on a high-end rotating lounge and bar in Fort Lauderdale that required a serious amount of coordination, precision, and time. The materials were high-end, the expectations were high, and the design was complex. It took a lot out of us, but the finished result was incredible. Being part of something that’s not just functional but also iconic, it makes the long hours worth it.

What do you think sets McKenzie Craft apart from other shops or teams you’ve worked with?

Even though this is the only shop I’ve worked in professionally, I know we’re in a different league. What stands out the most is that we don’t box ourselves in, we take on challenging, one-of-a-kind projects and always aim to raise the bar. The team here is made up of people who are not only experienced, but also passionate about what they do. There’s a level of professionalism and creativity in the shop that’s hard to find elsewhere.

How do you spend your time outside of the workshop? Any hobbies or creative outlets?

Outside of work, I try to stay balanced, spending time with family and friends, staying active, and traveling when I can. One of my main hobbies is competitive bowling. I play in multiple leagues and enter tournaments whenever I get the chance. It’s a great outlet, keeps me sharp, and honestly, it taps into the same kind of precision I use at work.

What kind of project or challenge would you love to take on in the future here?

I’d love to be involved in a project where I can help design and fabricate an entire concept, something like a full restaurant or a high-end residential build-out, where we handle everything from concept to install. Seeing something through from start to finish, especially at that scale, would be a huge milestone for me.

Where do you see yourself growing within McKenzie Craft over the next few years?

Down the line, I see myself stepping into more of a leadership or technical design role. I’d like to move toward either shop foreman or something in product design or engineering. I enjoy the problem-solving side of what we do, and I want to continue growing with the company as we take on more complex and ambitious work.

What’s one thing people might not realize about what you do behind the scenes?

People might not realize how much thought and prep goes into each cut before the machines even turn on. It’s not just loading files and pressing a button—there’s real strategy involved. And outside the shop? I’m a better-than-average chef. Might surprise some people, but I’ve got skills in the kitchen too.

Blake’s path into fabrication wasn’t typical, but it’s a clear example of how growth happens here. He’s carved out a role through adaptability, focus, and a willingness to take on whatever the work requires, whether that’s fine-tuning a CNC or jumping in wherever the team needs him.

His story is one of many at McKenzie Craft that reflect the range of experience and perspective across our shop. From project to project, it’s this mix of backgrounds and skillsets that drives the work, and keeps pushing it forward.