Hillary — FlightDeck™ Beer Sampler

Some projects mark a turning point.

Hillary — FlightDeck™ Beer Sampler

When my daughter Hillary needed a unique gift for her boyfriend’s dad, the idea landed at just the right moment. I had recently begun experimenting with my CNC machine, exploring how precision carving could open the door to new kinds of builds—and that curiosity became the spark behind what would eventually become FlightDeck™.

The original FlightDeck was crafted from maple and engraved with “Dave’s FLIGHT DECK,” flanked by illustrated beer taps and mugs. Designed to hold six 5oz mason jar tasting glasses, each glass sits in a carved recess for a stable, balanced feel—inviting pours, comparisons, and conversation.

To complete the experience, chalkboard panels were added along the sides, allowing each beer to be labeled, debated, and remembered. It wasn’t just about serving beer—it was about slowing down and turning tasting into a shared ritual.

Built for a beer lover, this piece became something more. It was the first CNC-aligned gift to come out of my shop, where experimentation met intention—and where a single custom gift quietly grew into a product line.

Today’s FlightDeck™ designs have evolved from this original build, with refinements like integrated chalk holders and customizable layouts. But the heart of the design remains the same: a handcrafted platform for gathering, tasting, and enjoying something made to be shared.