Meet Sarah Rose Goldstein

 

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sarah Rose Goldstein. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sarah Rose below.

Hi Sarah Rose, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

I’ve often been called a unicorn. With a Master’s in Special Education and a Bachelor’s of Science in Technology Education, I have a unique skill set that allows me to teach both students with disabilities and hands-on subjects like Woodshop and Engineering. So, why haven’t I combined the two before? Well, that’s about to change.

There aren’t many educators with my background—when I graduated, I could count my peers with the same degree on one hand. Think back to your high school experience: did students in special education have access to the same electives as you? Probably not. But it’s time to change that.

My ultimate goal has always been to create a Woodshop/STEM center where individuals with disabilities can learn hands-on skills and gain meaningful employment. And now, I’m making that vision a reality. My current role at a private special education school is giving me the opportunity to build a makerspace.

What does that mean? We’ll have a wall of 3D printers, a powerful laser cutter, and—most importantly—a curriculum focused on career readiness. Students will first learn how to create, design, and build. Then, we’ll take it a step further by producing items to sell, turning their skills into real-world opportunities.

This isn’t just a class—it’s a step toward inclusion, empowerment, and a future where all students have access to hands-on, career-focused education.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I also run my own woodworking business—Rosie’s Woodshop! If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll see a mix of my silly side and the exciting projects I’m working on. My website will be live soon, and I also sell on Etsy. I create charcuterie boards, cutting boards, pens, trays, epoxy pieces, coasters, 3D-printed fidgets, planters, and more!

Woodworking has always been a part of my journey. In high school, I was one of the only girls in my Woodshop class. Fast forward a few years, and now I’ve been running my own LLC and previously taught woodworking and engineering for three years at some of the top schools in New Jersey. But my true passion has always been helping those who need it most—individuals with autism.

Woodworking is also in my blood. My great-uncle owned a luxury furniture factory for many years, and when he found out I was taking woodworking, he flew me out to Los Angeles to see it firsthand. Throughout college, I visited 13 times, and after grad school, they even offered me a leadership role. But at the time, I didn’t take it—a decision that remains one of my biggest regrets.

Still, I know my great-uncle Irv is looking down on me with pride. I miss you and love you, Zayde.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Networking is one of my strengths—though I know that’s not something people usually say about themselves! But the truth is, I genuinely love connecting with others. It can be intimidating at first, but sometimes all it takes is walking up, saying hi, and seeing where the conversation leads.

I’m incredibly passionate about what I do, and I don’t stop until I succeed. And now, at 27 years old, I’m watching my dreams become a reality.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is knowing when to step back and reflect. No matter your age—whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or 40s—it’s never too late to chase your dream. Surround yourself with the right people. Find your community.

For me, discovering the maker community has been life-changing. They aren’t just peers; they’re family. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?

I used to say yes to everything. It led me into projects and commitments I simply didn’t have the time for. Now, thanks to my therapist, I’m learning to say, “I’ll think about it.” It’s not easy, but it’s necessary.

We all want to make others happy, but the truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Glimmers photography and Mark Adams Photography

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