Previously, we toured the Colorado School of Trades, took a look at their curriculum and the Design and Function lab. CST’s owner, Ryan Lishner, took a few minutes to talk to us about the facility and offerings!
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About Ryan Lishner
Ryan Lishner is the owner of the Colorado School of Trades. He is dedicated to the firearms industry and takes great pride in training the best gunsmiths he can. Lishner actually attended CST from 2005 to 2006, took a role with a major firearms retailer before returning to CST in every position they offer before buying the school. While all roads have led back to CST, it was much more of a journey. In between, Lishner worked in federal law enforcement.
Over the last few years, Lishner has made a concentrated effort to grow the school and keep current with industry technology and standards. This includes upgrading CNC machines and looking towards adding an action blueprinting session in the future.
CST students build a full rifle as they make their way through the course. This rifle is currently being adjusted from classic to something more modern with upgraded features.
Lishner’s passion for the school comes from his own passion for firearms and building. Even though he now owns CST, he’d rather be in a machine shop teaching than in an office. His particular area of interest is lightweight, long-range hunting rifles.
CST truly cares about their students and wants to set them up for success. CST works with a network of gun shops around the country to place students as well as with the industry to ensure they are teaching the newest techniques.
The goal is for students to become autonomous and independent, but CST’s hands-on model means there is always someone to ask and learn from to get you there.
Conclusion
Whatever your interest or skill level, CST starts with the basics. If you’re interested in attending the Colorado School of Trades, check out their website!
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Thanks,
Gavin Gear
