Our Story

Since the age of 15, I’ve been immersed in the world of construction, learning the ropes from my uncle. I was drawn to the energy of job sites—the camaraderie of tradespeople, suppliers, and the thrill of bringing a project from plan to completion. From that first summer, I knew this was the path for me.

For 11 years, I had the privilege of working alongside a respected contractor in Chatham, finding myself promoted from labourer to supervisor in a short two years. Learning to manage multiple crews, I gained valuable experience and a deep love for the trade. In 2018, my wife Emily and I decided to take it to the next level and took the leap into entrepreneurship, founding our own company.

— Brett Zandstra

Our Journey

2006

Brett spent a summer working for a family member, where he was introduced to carpentry for the first time. As a high school student, he needed to secure a co-op placement but had no clear direction on where to apply. With little idea of what career path to follow, he randomly picked a name from a phone book and secured a placement at a company—a decision that would unexpectedly shape his future and keep him with the same business until 2018.

2007

As Brett’s co-op placement came to an end, he realized that he had developed a deep passion for carpentry. The experience had sparked his interest in the trade, and he decided to continue honing his skills. That summer, he returned to work with his family member once again, gaining further hands-on experience and reinforcing his commitment to the craft.

2008

By the following year, Brett transitioned into a full-time role with the company where he had completed his co-op. This opportunity allowed him to continue refining his carpentry skills while gaining practical, on-the-job experience. His responsibilities grew, and he became increasingly proficient in his trade, laying the foundation for a long and successful career in the industry.

2009 - 2018

Over the next decade, Brett dedicated himself to mastering his craft and developing a strong work ethic. His commitment to growth and continuous learning helped him advance within the company, taking on more responsibilities and refining his expertise. As he climbed the company ladder, he gained valuable industry knowledge, leadership skills, and experience in high-level carpentry work. His hard work and dedication ultimately earned him promotions within the organization, solidifying his role as a skilled and respected professional in the field.

2019 - Present

Brett’s desire for constant improvement pushed him to take the next big step in his career—starting his own carpentry business. After more than a decade of gaining experience, refining his skills, and working his way up in the industry, he was ready to build something of his own. Fueled by his passion for craftsmanship and a drive to create high-quality work, Brett launched his business with a vision to deliver exceptional carpentry services while continuing to grow as a tradesman and entrepreneur.

About Us

Zandstra Carpentry has a rich history in Chatham-Kent and years of craftsmanship and dedication behind our name.