A Career in Surfboard Craftsmanship with Lou Aitken (Surfboard Shaper)

In this episode, we dive into the world of surfboard shaping with Lou Aitken — where creativity, craftsmanship, and a love for the ocean collide. Lou shares her journey of discovering a passion for board building, sparked by family influence and hands-on experiences in the surfboard factory.From touring workshops as a kid to building their very first shortboard, this story captures the excitement of turning curiosity into craft. What began as fascination soon became a lifelong pursuit — a blend of design, precision, and the deep satisfaction that comes from working with your hands.We explore the connection between surfing and shaping — how riding the waves fuels the creative process, and how every board built is a reflection of both art and adventure. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best careers start not from a plan, but from a spark.Whether you’re drawn to design, the trades, or just love hearing about people who create with passion, this episode will leave you inspired to turn what you love into what you do.