​I'm Natasha, a Red Seal carpenter. I live on the unceeded, traditional territory of the Syilx and Sməlqmíx peoples in the Similkameen Valley. Currently I operate SUN MUD JOY studio, my home-based workspace where I execute custom projects and explore materials at the intersection of built environment, carpentry, art, regenerative practice and place. 

My choice towards carpentry came after a fine woodworking program, a permaculture certificate and strawbale home building workshop. A six month program at The Endeavour Centre, led by Chris Magwood early on in my journey solidified a passion for carbon sequestering materials in building as a solution to climate change (here's an example), as well as an attention and belief in socially just workplaces. I've worked alongside some amazing and talented builders, owner-builders, friends and companies over the years - work which has mostly been purposely focused in the residential building space and includes experience in panelized, pre-fabricated building to passive house standards.

SUN MUD JOY started with farming friends who received an infrastructure grant and needed a carpenter. My work for the last 4 years has been mostly the design and construction of small-scale infrastructure for farmers on leased land, renovations, custom furniture, and a 2-storey house deconstruction. It's been a wild dive into entrepreneurship, contracting and business while remaining true to my values and managing a work-life balance, which for me includes living in an ongoing low-carbon retrofit project, growing as much of my own food as possible, playing creatively and enjoying the Similkameen in any time in between.
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 I'm grateful for the guidance and support of BCCWITT, Helm Construction Solutions, and all the teachers in my life thus far. I've been focused on mentoring and mentorship opportunities in the last few years, with a Youth in Trades Camp Support Role, a short-term teaching position at Okanagan College, and a volunteer position for a community centre build in Bamfield with the Timber Framers Guild. In 2025 I’ll complete a Project Administration Certificate while remaining available part time for client project work.