Meet Ryan Doran, a Montana-based woodworker, contractor and creator whose passion for bringing life to creative ideas landed him in the the trades and ultimately to the woodworking space. If he isn’t working on his 1922 farmhouse, you can find him enjoying the outdoors, fishing, hunting, backpacking or at the hockey rink, coaching and developing young Montana hockey players.

Ryan grew up jumping around in different jobs in the trades. Beginning as a carpenters apprentice at the age of 13, he developed a love for working with his hands and how satisfying it was to watch the build come to fruition. Following that he moved on to many other trades, developing a wide skill set in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roofing. From large commercial builds to small bathroom remodels, he has done it all. These skills have developed over the years and taken him into his latest endeavor of taking a 1922 farmhouse in Stevensville, Montana down to the bare bones and recreating the beauty that old houses used to hold. “This project means so much to me. It has been a challenge, but you know what they say. They just don’t build things like they used to.”

From Ryan, “I really love bringing something personal into everything that I create. Finding a historic piece of lumber to incorporate, or a piece of iron that your grandpa shaped is what makes the piece. I welcome all ideas and thrive when I am able to use my creativity to build something one of a kind.”

With a toolbox full of skills, Ryan not only crafts exquisite wood pieces but also has a knack for the trades. His hands-on approach brings a sense of restoration and renewal to each project, showcasing his commitment to preserving both memories and materials.