We’re about to get some tree trimming done at home, and I think some of the pieces might be large enough for small projects (largest branch is probably ~6" around), but I have no clue what goes into processing those other than that they need a really long time in a kiln.
Is there anywhere in the Austin area where I could take the chopped branches and have them give me project-ready wood back?
You don’t need a kiln; you can substitute space and time. I’ve made projects out of “firewood” log pieces I left to dry in my garage for a couple years, then sawed into plank on the bandsaw. If you want to minimize wait time, check with a moisture meter every few months.
If you do go the way of drying it in the garage, covering the endgrain can help keep it from checking/cracking. There’s a product called anchor seal, but I’ve also seen latex paint or wood glue used.
I’ve seen a jig being used to pass logs through the bandsaw to cut planks, unsure if that is in the shop or member owned, but should be pretty easy to make if needed! Generally you’ll need a year of drying per inch of thickness.