Who we are
Great Lakes Trailbuilders, LLC began in 2008 with a simple goal: bring a low-impact, environmentally conscious approach to trailbuilding to the Midwest. Willie Bittner got his start over 25 years ago with the Wisconsin DNR and has spent his career building trails across the country and teaching trail skills to volunteer groups, conservation corps, and agency partners.
What started as a regional effort has grown into national and international work with all types of user groups and landscapes. As the owner and lead designer, Willie is dedicated to sharing what he’s learned, collaborating with the people who use the trails, and designing projects that push the craft forward. His career has taken him from Patagonia trail design projects to co-founding WisCorps, Inc., to leading trainings in everything from sustainable construction to rigging and trail psychology.
Supporting the business behind the scenes Katie Bittner, whose expertise in sustainability and organizational strategy helps guide operations and long-term vision.
Experience
Trained over 1000 people in Sustainable Trail Construction
Managed 100's of completed trail projects
Worked with Conservation Corps for 20 years
Co-founded WisCorps, Inc.
Current Board President of the PTBA
Served on many Non-profit boards
Recreated on trails around the world
Member of the Professional Trailbuilders Association since 2013
Partners and Clients
