On March 27th, students at St. John Catholic High School in Perth had the unique opportunity to learn from Patrick Moore, a distinguished Canadian carpenter and construction manager at Amor Construction. Patrick is a globally recognized expert in stereotomy, a traditional method of precision stone and woodcutting, and the first English-speaking individual to earn the prestigious title of Compagnon Passant Charpentier in France. With numerous certifications, he has made significant contributions to preserving historical sites worldwide, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. His journey, marked by perseverance and dedication, served as an inspiration to students pursuing careers in skilled trades. 

Patrick shared his incredible story of selling all his possessions to move to France, where he faced significant challenges, including language barriers, as he worked toward mastering stereotomy. Upon returning to Canada, he was eager to share his knowledge and reached out to multiple schools and organizations, only to face rejection. Undeterred, he took matters into his own hands, founding The Professional School of Practical Stereotomy in Ottawa in 2014. Today, his school has flourished, and he is widely sought after by educators, employers, and industry leaders. 

In addition to his engaging talk, students took part in an interactive workshop focused on stereotomy. Patrick brought in demonstration pieces, allowing students to see firsthand the intricacy and craftsmanship involved in this architectural technique. More than just an observation, students were able to apply what they learned by building their own pieces, gaining hands-on experience with the blend of history, mathematics, and skill required in stereotomy. It was an inspiring and educational day that gave students a new appreciation for the craft.

We are incredibly grateful to Patrick for taking the time to share his journey with our students. His visit reinforced the importance of resilience, passion, and hard work in achieving success, no matter the obstacles. Thank you for inspiring the next generation to follow their dreams and embrace the challenges that come with them. 

For more information, visit The Professional School of Practical Stereotomy.