Wood Shop to Wolverine: How a Surfboard Landed Brittany at the University of Michigan

The Start of a Gone Boarding Journey

When this Gone Boarding alum enrolled at FHN in 2016, the program was brand new—and Brittany Lodzinski wasn’t sure what to expect. Growing up building with her dad and grandpa, she was drawn to the hands-on approach of Gone Boarding. “I knew this would be a way to use my creative talents in my schoolwork,” she says.

Finding Her Place in the Wood Shop

On the first day, she was one of only three girls in the class—but she quickly discovered that Gone Boarding wasn’t intimidating at all. “I figured it must’ve been an intimidating class and most girls were hesitant to work in the wood shop. No need to

be afraid, it was the best time of my life! ” she recalls. Her enthusiasm inspired more girls to join future classes.

A Portfolio Piece That Changed Everything

Gone Boarding isn’t just about building boards—it’s about building skills and tangible projects. “I included my GB surfboard in my portfolio for the University of Michigan School of Art and Design,” she says. “I truly believe that piece was what got me accepted. It’s a fully functional product handcrafted in high school. That’s the power of Gone Boarding.”

Launching a Creative Career

Today, she works as both a residential and commercial interior designer, building on the foundation of creativity and hands-on experience she gained in Gone Boarding. “GB didn’t place me directly into my career, but it guided me toward the right path,” she says.

The Gone Boarding Experience

“Gone Boarding gives you creative freedom, introduces you to tools you may never have used, and fosters teamwork as you perfect your designs. That surfboard in my portfolio wasn’t just a conversation starter—it was a demonstration of what high school students can create when given the opportunity.” Gone Boarding continues to give students experiences that not only push creativity but also open doors to college, careers, and confidence beyond the classroom.