Broderick Vaughan owns Vaughan Gators LLC in Tallahassee, Florida. What started in 2010 as a new hobby for an avid lifetime hunter turned into a full-time job as a nuisance alligator trapper for the Florida Wildlife Commission. After a decline in the international alligator hide market in 2016, Broderick began tanning all of his own hides at Sebring Custom Tanning. The unique experience of being a part of the entire production process, from capturing the live alligator to making the finished goods, is what led him to develop a passion for leatherwork. 

Born and raised on a ranch in eastern Montana, Jim Linnell has had leather working in his blood ever since his first visit to the Miles City Saddlery. Now, after spending the last 50 plus years working with leather and over 45 years in the leather industry, those sounds and smells are still a part of his life.

As an artist, Jim’s leather art has been featured on magazine covers, catalog covers, in galleries and at countless shows. As a businessman, Jim has a track record of building some very successful and profitable national retail chains. In the leather working world, he has received some of the most prestigious awards recognized in the industry. The Al Stohlman Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Master Leather Artisan Award from The Academy of Western Artists are some of the better known.

Jim has taught leather working skills to thousands of students around the world. His passion for the art has made him one of the most sought-after instructors of our day. Students in his classes often get a history lesson on the art along with in depth instruction. Now that he is “retired”, Jim is busier than ever. His passion for teaching leathercraft has been focused on his business, www.elktracksstudio.com where classes continually happen and a library of instructional videos continues to grow every month.

Nevada Miller is an engraver and maker from Southeastern Oregon who splits time between her silver shop and running the family ranch with her husband. She loves to create pieces with a western style and eclectic flair. Teaching has become a passion of hers and she wishes to share her knowledge to whoever is willing to learn.

www.nevadawatt.com

www.beamaker.school

Sheryl Katzke's interest in Leathercraft ignited in 1997 upon discovering a set of tools at a flea market. Those very tools set her on an unforeseen journey within the realm of leather that was beyond her imagination. Spanning two decades, she has been fortunate to immerse herself in the study of diverse tooling techniques under the tutelage of several esteemed Masters. In 2001, the venture into leather braiding commenced as Sheryl sought instruction from experts in the craft, mastering the intricate artistry of both kangaroo and rawhide braiding. Proficiency was achieved in round braiding, ornamental braids, delicate edge braiding, and intricate knot work. By 2005, she had assumed the role as an instructor, imparting knowledge in tooling and braiding through classes held in Sheridan, Wyoming during the Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show, catering to both young learners and adults. The year 2020 marked a significant milestone as Sheryl undertook the position of an Instructor at Elktracks Studio Creations, an experience that has proven to be profoundly enriching. Sheryl's artistic endeavors have garnered her a plethora of accolades, including numerous First Place, Best of Show, and Judges Choice awards at County Fairs. Recognition extended to the global stage, with her creations securing First and Second Place distinctions at The World Leather Debut. The pinnacle of her achievements were marked by triumphs at the International Federation of Leather Guilds Convention, where she secured titles such as First Place, Best in Category, Best in Class, and Best of Division.

www.facebook.com/sheryl.katzke

George is a partner at EDC Leather, LLC based in the heart of the Ozarks in Springfield, Missouri. EDC Leather is a small production house concentrating on holsters and belts, and somehow in the last couple of years has moved into the supply side of leatherworking. About 5 years ago EDC Leather opened a new company, Holster Makers Bootcamps and has been hosting 3-day intensive training on holster design and construction a couple times a year. Teaching design and sharing ideas with other leatherworkers is a passion for the whole crew at EDC Leather.

www.edcleather.com

Benjamin Bork has been making saddle cinches for the last 23 years, and for the last 3 years he has been sand casting saddle hardware for Bork & Sons, LLC. When Ben is not working in the shop or on the small family farm, he enjoys reading fiction novels and studying history. 

Leandra Martin is an Idaho native, working in the leather industry full-time for the last seven years. Leandra specializes in high-end purse design and construction with a western flare. She has designed many of her own patterns and enjoys the process of design and construction. She has recently begun teaching classes to share her techniques with others in the industry and will be offering her patterns soon.

Braydan Shaw is the dynamic Owner and President of Burns 1876, an iconic establishment located in Salina, Utah, with a rich history spanning over 145 years. Shaw adeptly merges tradition with innovation, propelling Burns 1876 to new heights. Recently honored with the prestigious Inc. 5000 award, the company stands as one of the fastest-growing independently owned businesses in the United States. Shaw's entrepreneurial drive, commitment to modernization, and community engagement underscore his role as a transformative leader in the leather industry.

www.burns1876.com