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

Julie has been doing leatherwork and building custom leather goods for over 40 years. She started working with leather in her dad's leather shop he set up in their tack room. She attended saddlemaking school at Spokane Falls Community College with Jesse Smith in the early 80's. Her first job was in Laramie, Wyoming building saddles at The Boardwalk for Rob Vogel. She then ran Ellensburg Saddle Company in Ellensburg, Washington with her husband. After going their separate ways, Julie opened Julie Baugher Leather Design and continued her custom work. Now, Julie Baugher Leather Design is a full-time leather working school specializing in chap making, but also caters to any level of leather work from beginner to advanced. Julie also has a line of chap patterns that she has created and sells online. Her love of working with leather continues, but her heart really lies with teaching others this craft that has been so good to her.

www.jbldleatherschool.com

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

Matt Wanner has been building saddles for Burns Saddlery in Salina, Utah for just over 15 years. He has been a part of the Burns team since he was 16 years old when he signed on to help train race horses with 5th generation owner, Scott Shaw. Matt’s talent for drawing and love of cowboying led him to the saddle shop and he has been there ever since. His dependability and willingness to go the extra mile in all he does landed him the position he now holds, President of Production . Matt has been inspired by some of the greats like Shane Deeter and Chuck Stormes, but he credits the talented team he works with every day with inspiring him to get out of his comfort zone and take his artistry to the next level.

www.burns1876.com

Broderick Vaughan owns Vaughan Gators in Tallahassee, Florida. What started 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.

Annie Libertini is an award-winning leather artist living in Spokane, WA. Her leather masks and other work have been featured on television on Once Upon a Time, Z Nation, and Gotham, as well as in many photo shoots and theater productions in the US and beyond. Annie travels to teach leather crafting workshops all over the country as well as teaching online at  www.elktracksstudio.com. She was the 2023 winner of the Al Stohlman Award for Achievement in Leathercraft. More information about her work can be found at  www.annielibertini.com.

Aaron Heizer is the head janitor at Maker’s Leather Supply, a Texas based leather supply company. He started leather working around the year 2001 while serving in the Army. Wherever the Army sent him, you could always count on Aaron having tools and leather in his bag. He retired from that life in 2014 after being stationed in 9 locations and serving 2 combat tours in Iraq. Since his Army retirement, he has dedicated himself to teaching and spreading the love of leathercraft wherever he goes. He runs Maker’s with the support of his wife, Janie Sue, and a small but amazing staff who are just as dedicated as he is. Aaron teaches as often as he can at shows, and also holds classes at their shop in Waco, Texas. His classes are geared to help anyone at any skill level, plus they are a lot of fun!

www.makersleathersupply.com

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

Tina Hancock is the accomplished co-owner of Fern Thatcher Co. and Hometown Leather, two thriving enterprises based in Missouri. With a wealth of experience in the leather industry, Tina has played an instrumental role in driving both businesses to success. Her visionary leadership and dedication have fostered growth and innovation, making Fern Thatcher Co. and Hometown Leather stand out in their field. With Tina at the helm, these businesses continue to flourish, exemplifying her commitment to excellence and entrepreneurial spirit.

www.fernthatcherco.com

www.hometownleatherworks.com