Skills Acquired

Over the years as I continued to purchase and build models a number of skills were needed and so acquired.

I suppose learning to read and then follow a set of directions was one of the first that comes to mind. In general, a model has instructions and the manufacturer has spent time and effort to offer a method on how to put the kit together in sequence. Of course striking out on one’s own is possible but usually does not end well.

Another skill comes to mind and that of dexterity and manipulation with one’s hands. To assemble a model takes some amount of those attributes. Learning to use the proper tool for the job at hand is an important skill as it helps to get the job done right (or at least better).

Patience is another gift as a model does not generally fall together and provide instant gratification. The downfall here is in my case I have the patience to build a model, do the research and embrace the experience. Unfortunately I am less patient with people.

The research part is an area that many may not delve into but tracking down information and learning about ones favorite subject can be fun and can teach one some amount of persistence.

 Are these skills important in the real world? Many trades use them and in my profession as an HVAC technician I see them all come into play.

I feel that today generations have lost out on the “toys” of my youth such as Tinker Toy, Meccano and of course my subject, model building.

 Their loss, my gain as there are more models for me to choose from!