Retrieving the mechanical arts

Retrieving the mechanical arts in a modern economy refers to acknowledging and valuing the theological, historical, and contemporary significance of craftsmanship and skilled labor within the broader context of human flourishing. More specifically, it is a faithful witness to God's design for humans to flourish in a material world He declared "very good." This stance stems from a biblical understanding of creation as fundamentally good. God created a physical world with tangible substances humans are called to cultivate and develop skillfully. Therefore, whether working with wood, metal, soil, or machinery, craftsmanship represents a faithful response to the cultural mandate in Genesis 1:28 to "fill the earth and subdue it."

To this end, I'm excited to announce the founding of Iron Cross Robotics Lab, a faith-based, Virginia non-profit corporation. As a makerspace, our aim is to retrieve the mechanical arts through mechatronics and robotics. High school graduates will learn, think, and work as craftsmen by designing, building, and experimenting with robotic machines. By integrating mechanical, electrical, fabrication, and software disciplines in a project-based learning environment, our goal is to prepare students for apprenticeship programs.

Located within eyesight of our lab, the Iron Cross landmark in Waynesboro, Virginia, is a powerful inspiration, reminding us of an era when craftsmanship, mechanical arts, and grit were the foundation of America's railroad systems. This historic landmark represents the intersection of two important railroad lines that once transformed the region's economic landscape. Given this context, our mission is to promote human flourishing and economic development in Waynesboro. We aim to create a talent pool to meet the region's growing technical workforce demands, especially in advanced manufacturing.

If you want to know more and stay informed, please subscribe below. Our goal is to open the lab by Fall 2025. Stay tuned for more!