Kim Coggin ~ DSWA Level 2 & Instructor

Kim Coggin - Johnstown, PA   DSWA Level 2 & Instructor Laurel Stoneworks

Kim has been building dry stone walls and structures since 2008.  Kim started working with stone shortly after relocating to Pennsylvania from the Southeast.  She fell in love with the numerous covered bridges, stone walls, furnaces, and other historical artifacts in Pennsylvania.  Kim is also an avid faux artist and muralist.  In addition to her technical training in stone, her training in the arts give Kim a unique and profound perspective on the artistic aspects inherent in dry stone creation.

Kim currently holds a Level Two Certificate from the DSWA, is a Certified Instructor, and serves as a member of the Board of Directors for The Stone Trust in Vermont.

Neil Rippingale Master Craftsman ~ Scotland

NEIL RIPPINGALE  - Scotland Master Craftsman DSWA-UK, DSC-USA Examiner

Neil started his career in dry stone work more than 30 years ago in his homeland of Scotland, working alongside an old craftsman who had been working on walls and intricate structures for over 50 years and his father before that. Although at first it was a hobby for Neil, it soon fast tracked into his livelihood. As a Master Craftsman registered with the Dry Stone Walling Association (DSWA), Neil's exemplary skills and expertise in Training, Project Leadership, Assessment and Consultation work has taken him to countries all over the world, working on projects in Australia, Switzerland, Scotland, England, Nova Scotia and more recently has worked and visited 40 States throughout America.

Neil was the first person to receive the DSWA Pinnacle Award over 24 years ago for his work on the Black House on the Isle of Harris. 

In 2010 Neil also received the Askins Achievement Award presented by the Preservation Trades Network for his contribution to the Trades Industry throughout America.

Neil's Training skills are legendary and with his personality and his incredible passion for stone and stone work in all its forms passes on to his Trainees which is inspiring indeed. To date, Neil has trained over 6,720 Trainees in 28 years of teaching, Neil says he can't remember all their names but there are some names and some trainees that he will never forget!!!

Formerly The Training Program Manager of the DSC KY