MENTORS’ MEASURE – Shop Talk 101 – Training Leaders for Tomorrow

MENTORS’ MEASURE – Shop Talk 101 – Training Leaders for Tomorrow

by | Dec 30, 2025 | board members, Mentor's Measure

Rodney Beckwith mentors students in various toolmanship skills.

As we close out another remarkable year at Bendix Academy, we pause with deep gratitude for our mentors, our students, our donors, and every supporter who helped turn curiosity into confidence and skills into possibility.

In this article, Bendix Academy’s senior mentor, Rodney Beckwith, captures the heart of our mission simply and powerfully as he talks about why he enjoys mentoring students and sharing his many toolmanship skills. 

In Rodney Beckwith’s own words…

“Realize how many of us can help youth become successful in a career. Many youth need to be exposed to the career opportunities available and how they may like working with their hands.” 

Our modern world didn’t happen by accident. It was built—carefully, skill by skill—by generations who designed, assembled, repaired, and improved the systems we rely on every day. As Rodney reminds us:

“We can be very thankful that many generations before us have developed a very convenient life for us today. To maintain our comfort we need a majority of us to develop, assemble, and service our conveniences.”  

“With the help of many mentors, Bendix Academy is inspiring youth to realize their potential to be involved in a proud and beneficial career.”

Mentors are the core of Bendix Academy.

That understanding sits at the core of Bendix Academy. With the support of dedicated mentors, we introduce young people to hands-on skills, practical problem-solving, and the pride that comes from building and fixing real things.

One of the most common misconceptions we hear is: “I don’t know enough to be a mentor.” Rodney puts that concern to rest:

“You as a mentor do not need to be versed in mechanical knowledge. Our courses are written with many pictures and descriptions in their presentation. You will work with experienced mentors to become comfortable with presentations. You may develop new skills that you were not comfortable with before.”

Expertise matters, but most important is presence.

“What we at Bendix Academy are asking of you is to come with an attitude of wanting to help youth discover themselves. Also showing how adults treat each other in a constructive and respectful manner.”

And the reward?

“The youth reward us with their thankfulness and smiles as they learn many skills they never knew existed.”

Rodney emphasizes that mentors don’t need to be experts in every subject—just individuals who are passionate about helping youth explore career possibilities and develop skills for life.

“Many youth just need a little help to see a beneficial career. Through our planned course materials, we give youth an experience in many areas of future occupation. We also model respect and the value of passing learned skills on to others.”

Do you know a mentor?

If you’ve ever considered sharing your time, your curiosity, or simply your willingness to encourage a young person—you belong here!

As we look ahead to a new year, our need for mentors continues to grow. One afternoon a week can change a life, including your own.

If you are interested in mentoring, click here to let us know. Or, if you know someone else willing to share their time and their knowledge with an eager young learning, please share this page with them!

As Bendix Academy continues to grow, we are looking for new mentors who share Rodney’s commitment to making a meaningful impact. Whether you’re a seasoned tradesperson or simply someone with a passion for teaching and giving back to the community, we invite you to join us.  If you have questions contact us at toolmen@bendixacademy.org. 

 

We also recognize that not everyone can give their time right now. If mentoring isn’t possible, please consider a year-end donation—either a one-time gift or a small monthly contribution. Every dollar directly supports tools, materials, and mentor-guided lessons that open doors for the next generation.

Make a one-time year end donation - Every donation counts!

Read more stories about Bendix Academy Mentors below!

FRONT PAGE – Why Mentors Matter: Meet the Makers of Mechanical Self-Reliance

FRONT PAGE – Why Mentors Matter: Meet the Makers of Mechanical Self-Reliance

by | Jul 9, 2025 | Front Page, Mentor's Measure, Newsletter, Vol1 No3 2025 Summer

Building Confidence, Craftsmanship, and the Future

At Bendix Academy, we believe that toolmanship is more than turning wrenches—it’s a mindset, a method, and a mission. It’s how we teach confidence, build character, and pass along the practical skills that shape lives. And at the center of it all are our mentors—real people with real experience, guiding the next generation not just in how to fix things, but how to think, problem-solve, and thrive.

In this issue of Toolmen Times we address mentorship across generations, from aviation students like Jude Louria to longtime restoration experts like Roger Ashley. The value of mentorship echoes in every hammer swing, every diagnosis, and every “ah-ha” moment as we work to restore Mechanical Self-Reliance.

Jude Louria

Mentors and student study Briggs & Stratton motor

“When something clicks—when a student realizes they can do it themselves—it’s incredible,”

~ Jude Louria, Flight Instructor and dedicated Bendix Academy mentor.

Jude Louria was raised in a do-it-yourself household where every move meant a new project. He developed toolmanship through hands-on problem-solving, fixing decks, restoring floors, troubleshooting creaky doors, and eventually, rebuilding engines. As he moved from puzzle tables to pilot training, Jude discovered a passion for teaching others what he had learned. Jude’s path—from flashlight-holding helper to flight instructor—reflects the very heart of Bendix Academy’s mission.

Today, at the age of 22, Jude finds joy in mentoring students at Bendix Academy, watching them grow in skill and confidence, one project at a time. His ability to break down complex tasks, whether it’s diagnosing an engine or teaching tool safety, helps students not only build things, but believe in themselves. For Jude, mentorship is about helping young people discover their own capability and the confidence that comes from doing something real with their own two hands.

Read more about what makes Jude a great mentor here.

Roger Ashley

From farm tractors to lunar rovers, Roger Ashley’s journey as a toolman and mentor began on a 100-acre farm outside Flint, where early mornings, milking machines, and makeshift generators taught him how to solve problems under pressure. Those experiences led to careers in farming, automotive safety, and even aerospace where he helped track parts for the Lunar Rover at Bendix Aerospace in the 1960s.

Now retired, Roger hasn’t slowed down. He restores vintage Farmall tractors, donates vehicles for student learning, and shares the kind of mechanical wisdom you can’t find in manuals. 

Roger’s hands-on guidance, whether teaching his grandson to use an air wrench or sharing his wisdom with students and staff at Bendix Academy, reflects a lifetime of learning—and giving back to members of the community far and wide.

Read more about how mentoring and toolmanship defined Roger’s career here.

“Too many young people haven’t had the chance to use tools, Knowing how to repair things builds independence and self-worth. That’s what we’re passing on.”

~ Roger Ashley, Lifelong toolman

🔧 Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever

We’ve seen firsthand how mentorship can shape a future.

Whether it’s Jude helping a student understand the basics of torque or Roger sharing the story of restoring a buried tractor, the result is the same: Students walk away empowered!

Today, many students grow up without regular access to tools, trades, or mentors who can show them how to build or repair. At Bendix Academy, we’re changing that—one student, one tool, one moment at a time. Our Toolmanship Mentoring Program gives middle and high school students the chance to:

  • Learn hands-on skills in mechanics, carpentry, and engineering
  • Gain confidence through trial-and-error and real-world problem-solving
  • Receive guidance from experienced adults who know what it means to get the job done right

🔧 Why Become a Mentor?

If you know your way around tools, machines, or even just everyday fix-it challenges, you already have what it takes to make a difference. Our mentors come from all walks of life—contractors, engineers, veterans, DIYers, tradespeople, mechanics, tinkerers, and educators—but they share one thing in common: a desire to pass it on.

As a mentor at Bendix Academy, you’ll:

  • Help students learn to think through problems, not just follow instructions
  • Share life lessons through meaningful, hands-on projects
  • Join a supportive community that values creativity, craftsmanship, and curiosity
  • Inspire confidence in young people—some of whom have never held a screwdriver before

Whether you have years of trade experience or just a solid set of practical skills, mentorship here isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. The time you give helps unlock confidence and capability in the next generation of builders, thinkers, and leaders.

Good Advice!

“Every conversation, every project adds to their confidence—and to mine, It’s not just about teaching; it’s about becoming part of someone’s story.”  ~Jude Louria on being a mentor
“Take advantage of every opportunity to work with your hands. Ask questions. Try things. And don’t be afraid to fail—that’s how you learn. I didn’t set out to work on space rovers or test Corvettes. I just kept learning. And when the opportunity came, I was ready.” ~Roger Ashley’s advice to students

Mentors Matter! Make a Difference in Building the Future

Do you have toolmanship skills, and a desire to share them? At Bendix Academy, we believe hands-on toolmanship knowledge can change lives. As our program continues to grow, we’re seeking mentors who are passionate about restoring mechanical self-reliance in the next generation.

Whether you’re a seasoned tradesperson, engineer, dedicated DIYer, or simply someone who enjoys teaching and giving back, your experience can make a lasting impact. Our mentors guide students through real projects that build confidence, critical thinking, and the ability to solve problems with their own hands.

If you’re ready to make a difference—one tool, one lesson, one student at a time—we’d love to hear from you.

Interested in mentoring? We invite you to consider becoming a Bendix Academy Mentor!  Questions? Please contact us at toolmen@bendixacademy.org. 

 

Read more articles like this in the most recent edition of Toolman Tips, Bendix Academy's quarterly newsletter!

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Bring the inspiring mission of Bendix Academy to your organization or group! Todd Trainor and Wendy Zielen offer engaging presentations on "Tomorrow's Toolment Today," blending stories of mentorship, mechanical skills, and community impact. Whether you’re reminiscing about shop class or exploring how to empower the next generation, their talks spark connections and inspire action. Perfect for schools, community groups, professional organizations, and more.

 

Contact us today to book your session and join the revival!

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MENTORS’ MEASURE – Jude Louria’s Journey through Tools, Teaching, and Takeoff

MENTORS’ MEASURE – Jude Louria’s Journey through Tools, Teaching, and Takeoff

by | Jun 5, 2025 | Mentor's Measure, Newsletter, Vol1 No3 2025 Summer

As one of Bendix Academy’s most recent mentors, Jude Louria already embodies what Bendix Academy is all about: curiosity, craftsmanship, and the drive to build and understand how things work—from puzzle tables to airplanes.

Jude’s journey from flashlight-holding kid to flight instructor and dedicated mentor is a powerful reminder of what hands-on learning and mentorship can ignite.

“Every time we moved, the house had something different that needed fixing. I learned to rip up carpet, rebuild a deck, troubleshoot door frames—each house was like a new hands-on classroom.”

DIY Roots: A Childhood Built With Tools and Curiosity

Jude’s early education came from more than from textbooks—it came from tools, projects, and the kind of home where there was always something to explore through hands-on experiences.

Raised in a thrifty, do-it-yourself household, Jude learned early that problem-solving starts with your own two hands. “DIY wasn’t a trend for us,” he says. “It was a way of life.”

Like many Bendix mentors, Jude grew up learning alongside his dad, holding the flashlight during repairs, watching closely, and eventually picking up the tools himself. “My dad figured things out the hard way—from his dad, from coworkers, from trial and error. That rubbed off on me.” Their projects were big and small, sometimes tackling things like refinishing hardwood floors made from old bowling lanes, or fixing misaligned doors in a newly built home. Each move brought new repairs—and new opportunities to learn.

One of the most memorable early projects? A custom shoe rack. “We spent weeks sanding and shaping it,” Jude recalls. “It turned out beautifully—too perfectly, actually. It was so snug in its spot we had to leave it behind when we moved.” That experience taught him pride in craftsmanship, and the bittersweet truth that sometimes the best work isn’t portable.

Turning Wrenches and Turning Heads

By high school, Jude’s focus shifted to cars. He began collecting service manuals for the vehicles he dreamed of owning and immersed himself in the logic of automotive repair. Diagnosing mysterious engine symptoms—like overheating, loss of power, or not moving forward (cracked cylinder header and sticky transmission) in a beloved Jeep Wrangler became a favorite challenge. He got especially good at:

  • Diagnosing quirks in aging vehicles 
  • Using logic to walk through each repair step methodically
  • Saving money while building mechanical confidence

With growing confidence and mechanical insight, he designed and built a custom puzzle table—a project that married utility with clever design. Lightweight, resizable, and budget-friendly, the table uses friction-fit legs to stay sturdy and adaptable. “I puzzled it out,” he says, grinning. “That project was pure problem-solving—from concept to completion.”

One of the most important lessons Jude learned was beyond the subject material:  He was interested in what made the learning process work, too.

 

“I liked the process—step-by-step, you check this, then that, then the next thing. Eventually, you fix it. It’s like solving a riddle you can drive.”

Charting a Course Skyward

“There’s a beautiful overlap between teaching toolmanship and flight instruction,” Jude says.  “Both require clear thinking, patience, and the ability to explain complex things in simple ways.”

Jude’s mechanical mindset and love of systems eventually pointed him upward—into the world of aviation. He earned his private pilot license and became both a certified flight instructor and a CFII (Instructor of Certified Flight Instructors), with additional certification underway in Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics.

In fact, teaching has become one of the most rewarding aspects of his aviation journey. “Pilots have to break things down like they’re teaching a kindergartner,” he explains. “It’s not about making things basic—it’s about making them make sense.” That clarity is something he brings to his role as a Bendix mentor as well.

The Joy of Mentorship—and the Moment It Clicks

Whether in the cockpit or the workshop, Jude finds deep satisfaction in watching students have their “ah-ha” moments. 

“You can see it in their eyes. When something clicks, when they realize they can do it themselves—it’s incredible.”

He particularly enjoys mentoring students who come in a bit overconfident. “Those are the fun ones,” he laughs. “They think they know it all—until they realize they don’t. That moment of humility? That’s where the real growth starts.”

“Sometimes the most valuable lessons come when something goes wrong,” Jude adds. “That’s when confidence is built—when students figure out how to recover, reassess, and keep going.”

Above: Jude teaching essential toolmanship skills such as hammering and sawing

 

Learning to Mentor from How Others Mentor

Just as Jude guides others, he continues to learn from seasoned mentors around him.

Whether it’s professors in Eastern Michigan University’s Aviation Technology program or long-time pros at Home Depot, he pays close attention to not only the lessons being taught but also how people teach.

Jude pays close attention to the teaching styles of his professors to refine his own. “Each one had their own method—some very structured, some more relaxed—but I watched how they shaped lessons and guided people through the hard parts. That made me a better student and a better mentor.”

Recently, Jude took a short break from coursework to focus fully on this next chapter: entering the aviation industry as a professional instructor.

In doing so, he’s deepening both his technical expertise and his skills as a mentor.

“I learned so much from older mentors—guys who’ve done this for decades,” Jude says.

“Every project, every conversation adds to the toolkit I’ll use to build my own pole barn, hangar, maybe even a house someday.”

Bendix Spirit in Action

Jude’s story reflects everything Bendix Academy stands for:

  • Practical knowledge,
  • Creative thinking, and the
  • Transformative power of mentorship.

From flashlight-holding helper to certified pilot, from puzzling out a table to guiding students through their own problem-solving process, Jude is not just building things—he’s building capability and confidence, one student at a time.

“That’s the spirit of Bendix Academy, and I’m proud to be part of it!”

 

Mentors Matter! Make a Difference in Building the Future

Do you have toolmanship skills, and a desire to share them? At Bendix Academy, we believe hands-on toolmanship knowledge can change lives. As our program continues to grow, we’re seeking mentors who are passionate about restoring mechanical self-reliance in the next generation.

Whether you’re a seasoned tradesperson, engineer, dedicated DIYer, or simply someone who enjoys teaching and giving back, your experience can make a lasting impact. Our mentors guide students through real projects that build confidence, critical thinking, and the ability to solve problems with their own hands.

If you’re ready to make a difference—one tool, one lesson, one student at a time—we’d love to hear from you.

Interested in mentoring? We invite you to consider becoming a Bendix Academy Mentor!  Questions? Please contact us at toolmen@bendixacademy.org. 

 

Read more articles like this in the most recent edition of Toolman Tips, Bendix Academy's quarterly newsletter!

Support Tomorrow's Toolmen TODAY
with as little as $5/month!

Just $5 / Month supports Tomorrow's Toolmen Today!

Enjoy these Toolman Times
regular columns!

 

Sign me up for Toolman Times Quarterly Newsletter!

Book Bendix Academy for Your Next Event

Bring the inspiring mission of Bendix Academy to your organization or group! Todd Trainor and Wendy Zielen offer engaging presentations on "Tomorrow's Toolment Today," blending stories of mentorship, mechanical skills, and community impact. Whether you’re reminiscing about shop class or exploring how to empower the next generation, their talks spark connections and inspire action. Perfect for schools, community groups, professional organizations, and more.

 

Contact us today to book your session and join the revival!

BOOK BENDIX ACADEMY TO PRESENT TO YOUR GROUP

MENTORS’ MEASURE – Rodney Beckwith III Building Confidence and Skills for the Future

MENTORS’ MEASURE – Rodney Beckwith III Building Confidence and Skills for the Future

by | Nov 16, 2024 | Mentor's Measure, Newsletter, Vol1 No1 2024 Fall

At Bendix Academy, mentors are more than teachers—they’re the foundation of our mission to shape confident, capable, and resourceful young people. Through hands-on learning, our mentors equip students with technical skills while fostering problem-solving abilities and self-assurance that will serve them throughout life. One such mentor, Rodney Beckwith III, exemplifies this spirit of guidance and transformation.

Rodney has been a mentor at Bendix Academy for several years, and his passion for teaching has made him an invaluable member of our team. For Rodney, mentorship isn’t just about passing on technical know-how—it’s about preparing students for life. 

“Serving as a mentor at Bendix gives me the opportunity to convey my life and career skills to young people. We are familiarizing them with many skills used both in the home and in professional trade positions.” ~Rodney Beckwith III

From carpentry to mechanics to electrical work, Rodney and other mentors help students build a foundation of practical knowledge that they can carry into their future careers—or use to become more self-reliant individuals. But the impact of mentorship extends far beyond the workshop. Rodney says one of the most rewarding aspects of his role is witnessing the growth in his students.

For many students, mastering these skills is transformative. It instills a belief in their own abilities and gives them a sense of accomplishment. Parents notice the difference, too, as their children mature and thrive through the program.

 

 

The rewards of mentorship extend to the mentors themselves. 

“My payback in all of this? Seeing the smiles on the students’ faces as they learn new skills. I often say we do it for the smiles they display as they experience mechanical understanding of concepts they never knew existed. And, parents’ excitement in watching their child mature by experiencing Bendix’s toolmanship program.”

“Day after day here, I watch their confidence grow in so many ways. I witness the satisfaction they get with the hands-on problem solving our lessons provide.”

“The mentor is also gaining experiences and appreciation while providing these services for youth.”

“Being a part of Bendix Academy—training youth to become leaders for tomorrow—is very satisfying. It’s a privilege to contribute to the future.”

Rodney’s dedication to mentorship is rooted in a lifetime of service to youth. A scout leader for over 55 years, Rodney has seen firsthand how a little guidance can make a world of difference. 

Rodney emphasizes that mentors don’t need to be experts in every subject—just individuals who are passionate about helping youth explore career possibilities and develop skills for life.

“Many youth just need a little help to see a beneficial career. Through our planned course materials, we give youth an experience in many areas of future occupation. We also model respect and the value of passing learned skills on to others.”

As Bendix Academy continues to grow, we are looking for new mentors who share Rodney’s commitment to making a meaningful impact. Whether you’re a seasoned tradesperson or simply someone with a passion for teaching and giving back to the community, we invite you to join us.  If you have questions contact us at toolmen@bendixacademy.org. If already know that you would like to become a mentor, please submit the form below!

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Read more articles like this in the most recent edition of Toolman Tips, Bendix Academy's quarterly newsletter!

Support Tomorrow's Toolmen TODAY
with as little as $5/month!

Just $5 / Month supports Tomorrow's Toolmen Today!

Enjoy these Toolman Times
regular columns!

 

Sign me up for Toolman Times Quarterly Newsletter!

Book Bendix Academy for Your Next Event

Bring the inspiring mission of Bendix Academy to your organization or group! Todd Trainor and Wendy Zielen offer engaging presentations on "Tomorrow's Toolment Today," blending stories of mentorship, mechanical skills, and community impact. Whether you’re reminiscing about shop class or exploring how to empower the next generation, their talks spark connections and inspire action. Perfect for schools, community groups, professional organizations, and more.

 

Contact us today to book your session and join the revival!

BOOK BENDIX ACADEMY TO PRESENT TO YOUR GROUP