Carving Children's Character

Meet the Slöyd Experience Team

Staff

Luke Johanson
Co-Founder | Executive Director

Allison Johanson
Co-Founder | Director of Development

About the Founders

In 2018 Luke and Allison Johanson learned what sloyd education was, thanks to Roy Underhill’s Woodwright’s Shop.  A 30 minute episode from a show that ran for 37 seasons on PBS, exposed them to a pedagogy that they wanted their two children to experience (who were at this point a newborn and toddler).  The impact they saw sloyd education was capable of having on their children, set in motion a mission to bring sloyd education (back) to the United State’s educational system.

Prior to 2018 Luke was a civil engineer and Allison was a microbiologist/public health professional.  Both Luke and Allison grew up on farms in eastern Iowa, attended Iowa State University, went on to get advanced degrees in their respective fields, and served on active duty as officers in the United States Air Force.  

Today, Luke and Allison guide, implement, and advance the mission of Slöyd Experience! Their faith and desire to “serve” transitioned from military careers to nonprofit co-founders and leaders in education.     

Board of Directors

  • Andrew Ramsey

    Board Member

  • Paul Duffy

    Board Member

  • Christina Pierson

    Board Member

  • Bart Wear

    Board Member

  • Marty Brodsky

    Board Member

  • David Blood-Smyth

    Board Member

Luke Johanson | Co-Founder

“Slöyd is not about responding to the needs of the workforce or economy. It is about responding to the inherent needs of a child.”

Become Part of the Slöyd Experience Team

Passionate about hands-on education and the transformative impact of the Slöyd methodology? We invite you to embark on a fulfilling journey with us. Whether you're looking to join the dynamic Slöyd Experience Team or are interested in diving deep into our specialized Slöyd Instructor Training, there's a place for you in our community. By becoming a part of our team, you're not just teaching a craft; you're shaping futures. For more details or to begin your journey, please reach out. We're excited to welcome you aboard and explore the endless possibilities together.