At Narrow Gate Trading Co., we value not only community, but also authenticity. We believe that a workplace doesn’t have to just be about a job, but it can also be a place where you feel known and loved. Today, we want to invite you into that by introducing some of our employees to you in a way you probably haven’t known them before! We’re talking about why they love what they do, how they got into their craft, and what their story is.
Blake Smith: Director of Leather Operations
After an 8 month experience and true heart change at Narrow Gate Lodge, in which he was introduced to his love for working with leather, Blake graduated from the Lodge in 2015 and immediately began working at what was then called Narrow Gate Artisans – now known as Narrow Gate Trading Co.. He began in the leather shop with very little experience, but had a real passion for learning and a teachable spirit. While working under Narrow Gate Graduate, Burke Reynolds, Blake soon learned how to make one-of-a-kind Bible covers and leather journals and four years later is now making world-class leather totes, backpacks, and messenger bags!
When we asked Blake what his favorite part of his job is, he said “I love being able to take raw material and see it turned into something really special. It reminds me of how God takes us from our most vulnerable form and crafts us into who He intended us to be.”
Kenny Bowling: TN Box Beams Sales Representative
After graduating from Narrow Gate Lodge in June of 2016, Kenny quickly transitioned into working at Narrow Gate Trading Co. in the wood shop. Previous to working with at NGTC, Kenny did cabinetry work in Texas for 7 years and also worked spent about a year working construction. That included included remodels, framing, roofing, painting, and more. When he started with us, his level of wood working knowledge really blessed and enhanced our shop!
Kenny has now transitioned into being our Sales Representative for TN Box Beams – a division of Narrow Gate Trading Co. that launched 3 years ago. TN Box Beams builds hand-crafted wood beams and custom accents such as mantels, floating shelves, and corbels. If you have worked with TN Box Beams on any level, there is a very good chance that you have been in communication with Kenny! He does a great job at taking care of our customers from start to finish. When we asked him what his favorite part of his job is, he said it’s the ability to take ownership of his responsibilities, to be able to grow as a leader in our workplace, and share the love of God with our customers!
Colin Hemberg: Wood Shop Manager
After developing a love for woodworking while being a student at Narrow Gate, Colin graduated in 2015 and began working with us in 2017. He is highly skilled at overseeing all of the NGTC wood shop operations which involves creating high quality cutting boards and custom decor, to making box beams, mantels, corbels, and floating shelves for TN Box Beams!
When we asked Colin what his favorite part of his job is, he said that he loves having the opportunity to work with his hands.
We are grateful for each of our craftsman and their stories. Without their diligence day in and day out to prosper God’s business and further His Kingdom, Narrow Gate Trading Co. wouldn’t be where it is today.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all of your heart, as working for the Lord and not for human masters.” Colossians 3:23
