Michael Prendergast founded Pepperbox in 2010 after gathering more than 20 years of design, fabrication, and problem-solving experience in the fields of wood studio furniture, metal fabrication and casting, blown and cast glass, ceramics, printmaking, and studio and project management. He has completed work for such notable clients as Scott McNealy, Tom Kundig, and Olson Kundig Architects, and worked on projects with top-caliber contractors, including Schultz Miller, Krekow Jennings, Mercer Builders, and Macpherson Construction and Design.

Previously, Michael worked as a partner at Seattle-based metal fabricators 12th Avenue Iron; for MacPherson Construction; for Pratt Fine Arts Center, the Tacoma Museum of Glass, and Pilchuck Glass School in a variety of management and technical roles; and for the pioneering sustainable forestry company EcoTimber, developing markets for locally grown and salvage lumber.

His interest in making things dates to his childhood, but really exploded after high school when he found that it could be a career.  He took a chance, went to Paris to study fine and applied art, and never looked back.  His later training was at the California College of Arts and Crafts under ceramic sculptor Viola Frey and at the College of the Redwoods Fine Woodworking Program under James Krenov.  Michael has taught at the College of the Redwoods, The Randall Museum, Pratt Fine Art Center, and Ballard Woodworks.