When Jessica Trouillaud, Owner and Designer of Opaline Interiors mentioned that she had met a delightful young entepenure that we just had to do a story about, our journey to get to know Jackson began. At an age when most kids are still figuring out how to ride their bikes with no hands, 12-year-old Jackson Conway is already running a full-blown business.
What started as a way to pass time in a grocery store parking lot during the pandemic quickly turned into something much bigger. While waiting for his mom to shop, Jackson and his dad bonded over YouTube videos about woodturning. That spark of curiosity caught fire. Sensing his growing passion, Jackson’s parents gifted him a beginner lathe for Christmas two years ago. “They wanted to see if I’d actually do it—and get good at it,” he laughs.
Spoiler alert: he totally did. And he’s crushing it.
Jackson is the founder and creative force behind JC’s Woodshop, where he designs and handcrafts unique wooden items like bowls, coffee tampers, pizza cutters, bottle openers, and ice cream scoops. “I like using my creative mind to come up with the designs,” he says.
His work blends traditional woodworking with modern tools—lathes, table saws, and band saws—all used safely under close supervision. His home workshop buzzes with the sound of machinery and the scent of fresh wood shavings.
But what really sets Jackson apart is his commitment to quality and sustainability. He uses salvaged and eco-friendly wood whenever possible, making sure nothing goes to waste. Each item he makes is functional, beautiful, and made with intention.
Of course, even the most talented 12-year-old needs a solid support crew. Jackson’s business is a true family affair. Dad is the (unpaid but enthusiastic) social media manager, helping with posts and online questions. Mom handles inventory, supply orders, and packaging—plus anything requiring excellent handwriting. Together, they’ve built not just a business, but something even more valuable: time spent learning, creating, and growing as a family.
“We’ve all learned a lot through this,” Jackson’s mom says. “But watching him take ownership of something so big at such a young age—that’s been the best part.”
Jackson sells his work online at https://www.jcswoodshop.com/, at local craft markets, and in-store at Opaline Interiors in downtown Snohomish. Whether he’s making items for a customer across town or shipping them across the country, he puts the same level of care into every piece.
Don’t be fooled by his age—Jackson’s got big plans. His long-term goal? “To never work for anyone but myself,” he says. “I want JC’s Woodshop to be a brand that’s carried in stores all over—not just one shop, but lots of them.”
Recently, he set his sights on upgrading his lathe and created a savings tracker—with a photo of the dream machine taped to his wall to stay motivated. He’s already reinvesting profits, expanding his inventory, and learning how to think long-term.
At markets, Jackson’s booth always draws a crowd. “People assume an adult made the products,” says his dad. “Then they meet Jackson and are blown away.”
And while Jackson is proud of his work, he’s even more excited to inspire others. He’s living proof that curiosity, courage, and passion can take you far—no matter how young you are or where you start.
In a world of instant gratification, Jackson Conway is living proof that hard work, patience, and a little grit still go a long way. With a block of wood and a big imagination, this young maker is carving out a future that’s entirely his own—and inspiring others to do the same.
Follow Jackson’s Journey:
Online at:https://www.jcswoodshop.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jcs_wood_shop
He’s living proof that curiosity, courage, and passion can take you far.