Hap Pool, Vice President of Eagle Aviators needed help to construct the leading edge of the wings for the Hatz Biplane. The project Hap has been leading from the start is to teach students important stem skills necessary towards becoming aviation professionals.
Hap decided to pay a visit to a Vail Valley expert, Heartwood Custom Woodworks located in Eagle, Colorado. Hap’s mission was clear: to expose, educate, and inspire the next generation of aviators.
The challenge presented to Heartwood was a bespoke part—a meticulously designed; egg-shaped component meant for the leading edge of a biplane’s wings. With the support of Heartwood’s owners Carl and Janet Jordan, Grant Goddard and the Heartwood team accepted the challenge.
Crafted in two parts, this delicate piece posed a unique challenge: it needed to be precisely machined using Heartwood’s computer numerical control “CNC” capabilities. As the Heartwood team huddled around their round table, minds buzzing with ideas and technical considerations, they realized the magnitude of the task before them.
With determination as their fuel, they set out to bring the vision to life. Prototypes were meticulously crafted and tested, each iteration bringing them closer to perfection. Through collaboration and dedication, they refined the design until they achieved the exact shape and functionality required.
The culmination of Heartwood’s efforts was the production of the final part, ready to be installed on Eagle Aviators’ biplane. As it took its place on the wings, they couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride—not just in their craftsmanship, but in their contribution to their mission.
“Eagle Aviator’s journey is more than the creation of a biplane; it’s about nurturing curiosity, fostering creativity, and instilling a passion for exploration,” said Grant Goddard. “It’s a testament to the power of hands-on learning and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream. By supporting this journey, they are not only shaping metal; they are shaping futures” expressed Goddard.