Hal Simmons began turning in 1996. He is a fulltime turner specializing in custom and production turning.

His mentors include Nick Cook, Willard Baxter, Bobby Clemons, Johannes Rieber, Dave Barriger, Chris Stott, David Ellsworth, Soren Berger, Ray Key, Allan Batty, Stuart Batty, and George Hatfield.

He demonstrates at local events, for local turning clubs, teaches turning classes at Highland Hardware in Atlanta, GA, teaches private classes at his shop and does one-on-one sessions. These sessions are specifically designed to meet and address the student's individual needs.

He served as VP for the Chattahoochee Woodturners ('98 - '00, '04 -'05) and as President of the Chattahoochee Woodturners from '00 to '02. He also served as registrar for the Southern States Symposium from 2001 - 2003. He currently serves as VP and Program Chairman for the Chattahoochee Woodturners in 2006.