From Defense Manufacturing to Woodturning: David Oatman’s Journey to Entrepreneurship

David Oatman, the founder of Oatman Originals, has embarked on a new chapter in his life, transitioning from a nearly 40-year career in defense manufacturing to pursuing his passion for woodworking. After facing a company lay-off, David decided to focus on his love for creating unique, handcrafted wood products.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with wood and began turning bowls on a lathe as well as making other items from wood,” David shared. “Since I am somewhat self-taught on the lathe (YouTube helped a lot), confidence first came from my wife. Having the approval of an Italian perfectionist goes a long way, as well as when others appreciated the quality of the work.”

Oatman Originals offers a diverse range of products, including various shapes and sizes of bowls, lidded containers, lamps, framed wood art, vases, fruit such as apples and pears, trees, mushrooms, pestle & mortar, rolling pins, cutting boards, cup & saucers, magnetic knife holders, salt & pepper shakers, and condiment caddies. With 90% of his creations being one-of-a-kind, David’s commitment to craftsmanship and creativity shines through in each piece.

I’ve always enjoyed working with wood and began turning bowls on a lathe as well as making other items from wood.

While David initially explored selling his products on Etsy, he found that sales were inconsistent. Speaking with other artisans with similar products, he discovered that they had comparable experiences on the platform. Currently, David sells his work through word-of-mouth and at two local stores: Classic Elements in Johnstown and Good to B Home in Bedford. Both shops offer a wide variety of items, including many handmade or locally-made products.

David’s entrepreneurial journey took a significant step forward when he discovered Startup Alleghenies and connected with Matt Reckner, the Director and Entrepreneurial & Innovation Coach for Somerset County. “Matt is very knowledgeable and quite thorough in covering any questions I had, as well as pointing me to resources that are available to me,” David said. With Matt’s guidance, David established Oatman Originals as an LLC, receiving assistance from the Penn State Law Entrepreneur Assistance Clinic in completing the necessary documentation.

David has also worked with other local resources, including Jess Ola at USSCO Richland office, who helped him set up a business account at the bank. He is currently collaborating with the St. Francis University SBDC to develop his presence on the Alleghenies Marketplace, where he will be able to showcase his available products and explore new market opportunities.

Looking to the future, David is excited about the completion of his Alleghenies Marketplace listing and the potential for growth it brings. With a passion for his craft and the support of the entrepreneurial community in the Alleghenies, David Oatman and Oatman Originals are poised for success in this new chapter of his life.

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.