From working in architecture to finding passion in travel photography, Jostin Bo Woods’ journey to award-winning filmmaker is a nontraditional one.
Jostin won an Award of Excellence at the prestigious Broadcasting Education Association's
2025 Festival of Arts for his documentary, "George: A Well-Crafted Life.” This short
film tells the remarkable story of a blind master woodworker from Greeneville, Tennessee,
which also happens to be Woods’ hometown.
Watch "George: A Well-Crafted Life" by Jostin Woods.
His inspiration for "George" stemmed from a desire to create a project rooted in Appalachia and his respect for artisans. He had seen the film's subject, George Wurtzel, around town and was intrigued by his life story, including his time on the US Paralympic cross-country ski team, his involvement in competitive horseback riding and finally the establishment of his woodworking business.
George's story is one of Appalachian resilience, the kind of story that Woods strives
to tell in his newfound career.
So how did Woods, who graduated with an AAS in Architectural Design from Walters State
Community College in 2019, become so talented in filmmaking? He credits his passion
for photography, and of course, ETSU.
"Through traveling the country, meeting new people, learning about myself and developing
a passion for photography, using a camera to tell stories through film seemed like
a natural step to take," shared Woods.
Woods started studying at ETSU in 2021, where he graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in media and communication, with a minor in radio, television and film. In addition to his personal film projects, he spent countless hours working with the Buccaneer Sports Network.
“Although I’m from this region, I’m appreciative of how ETSU feels like home,” said
Woods. “There was never a day on campus where I felt out of place. That’s a testament
to the people and the culture here.”
“Although I’m from this region, I’m appreciative of how ETSU feels like home. That’s
a testament to the people and the culture here.”
- Jostin Woods
Now, Woods works as the director of marketing and business development at Greene County Partnership back in his hometown of Greeneville. Although he is still looking for more opportunities to do photography and filmmaking for a living, he believes his work in marketing still allows him to tell stories and create visual perspectives of the world around him.
For those on the fence of going to college, Woods encourages you to set yourself up
for your future.
“If you’re considering ETSU, just know that you’re going to be able to rely on the
support of so many qualified people, no matter the discipline you choose,” said Woods.
“There is something special about this place and a spot for you to do special things
in your own right.”
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