Meet The Team 🤝

Behind every Elk Ridge home, cabin and sauna is a dedicated team of people who care deeply about their craft. Meet the builders, designers, and dreamers who bring your spaces to life.

Vision & Direction 🚀

Shelby Friesen - CEO

As a kid Shelby was shipped off every summer to work with his uncles. This was the beginning of his mastery of the metal trades and his talent for making you laugh until you cry...He spent the beginning of his career helping build custom $15-35m homes in Whistler, BC. Everything from structural steel to high end floating staircases. working as a boiler maker before starting RYD Motorsports where his love for machines and design skill and attention-to-detail garnered national attention.A mix of partying, crappy food, lots of sugar, and the normalization of an unhealthy lifestyle combusted into severe anxiety and depression.Shelby was bed-ridden for months and couldn’t work for almost 2 years.At first he thought he could walk into a doctor and get fixed up with a pill. But This was the opening of his Pandoras box when it came to understanding himself and society around us. His journey led him to nutrition, fitness, and breathwork which finally allowed him to get back to building an amazing life and businesses.These days you can find Shelby out for a run, crushing smoothies, spending time with his loved ones, playing around in excavators, and trying to finish his pilots license so he can roam free!Shelby swears if the aliens don’t come to take him home he will solve anti-gravity and build a ship of his own.

Ryan Koch - Operations Manager

Ryan doesn’t believe in shortcuts in life, leadership, or the miles between start and finish. He grew up in the Okanagan Valley, inside a family that built things from the ground up and believed you should too. By the time he was five, he was holding the tape measure for his dad on job sites, learning early that the work you do becomes the person you are. He built his career in the fire-protection industry, earning his Red Seal, running teams, teaching apprentices both on-site and in the classroom, discovering that systems and people aren’t that different. Both need clarity, patience, and someone willing to lead from the front. Years of OCR and endurance events off the job taught him the same lesson in a different language: pain passes, grit doesn’t. At Elk Ridge, Ryan leads like an athlete in a long race. Steady pace, strong team, eyes on the horizon. His philosophy, living life in 3D: determination despite difficulty, shapes everything from the shop floor to the boardroom. His leadership runs on one belief: “We’ve got a long way to go and a short time to get there.” It’s the heartbeat of how he leads. Focused, relentless, and fueled by the belief that great teams make the impossible look routine. When he’s not keeping the operation running, Ryan’s enjoying time with family, coaching others, reading a good book, or hitting the road to somewhere that offers a good view and better perspective. The kind that strips life down to what matters.

Jaymie Wolf - Head of Marketing

At 10 years old Jaymie was sweeping floors on job sites and grew into building custom homes from the ground up with his dad and grandfather.Though a valuable skill, it also lead him to see a trap in modern society – working a job you don’t like to pay off the student debt that got you there, and to afford the house you hardly spend time in; running through life unconsciously. This made him dream of a better way to live.Jaymie experienced fights with depression and spent a year reading, meditating, doing yoga and building the philosophy by which he would live his life. He dreamed of and planned to build a homestead filled with good community.Jaymie’s most notable business experience is operating a $60m telecommunications software business and founding Habitat Botanicals – a toxin-free bath & beauty brand with compostable packaging that was acquired by Pela in 2020.Jaymie attended BCIT’s construction electrical program and continued his interests in Physics at the University of the Fraser Valley. He strongly believes in self-education and learning through experience and mentors. As such he's an avid reader and loves to attend mastermind communities where he can level up, such as the Baby Bathwater Institute.These days you can find Jaymie roaming through the forest smiling at life or educating others.He swears the aliens will come take him home one day..

Kara - Finance & Culture

Kara grew up in Abbotsford, BC, and has always been drawn to movement, adventure, and connection. From volunteering on missions trips across India, Africa, and Peru to playing university-level soccer, she’s spent her life chasing challenge and growth. These experiences shaped her grounded, upbeat approach to work and leadership. Before joining Elk Ridge, Kara spent over a decade in the service industry and later built her own events company, hosting trail running and mountain biking events across BC and Alberta. Running a business taught her as much about people as it did about logistics. And it sparked a love for collaboration, organization, and building something bigger than herself. When her partner purchased Elk Ridge, Kara stepped in to help strengthen the company’s foundation. Today, she oversees finance, systems, and team culture. Keeping projects running smoothly, accounts in order, and people connected. Whether she’s coordinating team events or managing day-to-day operations, she brings energy, empathy, and a steady sense of direction to everything she touches. Outside of work, Kara can be found at the beach, playing whatever sport is in season, or spending time with friends and family. She lives by the words “Figure out what fuels your joy, then do lots of that,” and it shows in the way she leads and lives every day.

Charli - Project Coordinator

Charli grew up in Deroche, a small community tucked in the Fraser Valley, where she learned the value of hard work and gratitude early on. After spending 15 years in the hospitality industry, she developed a deep appreciation for service, connection, and helping people feel cared for. That experience shaped her approach to everything that came next. Steady, detail-oriented, and people-first. Wanting a new challenge, Charli returned to school and earned her Business Degree from Okanagan College, specializing in Marketing. What she discovered wasn’t just a knack for organization, but a passion for how great businesses and great homes are built. After interning with a local jam company and working in office administration, she found her stride in the homebuilding world, combining her love for structure, process, and design. When Charli and her husband bought and renovated their first home, it became a turning point. Learning the ins and outs of construction alongside her dad deepened her interest in real estate and design. That same hands-on curiosity led her to Elk Ridge, where she brings warmth, precision, and a natural sense of organization to every client experience. Outside of work, Charli is usually found with a book in hand, camera nearby, or paintbrush ready. Unless she’s off exploring a new corner of the country with her family. She’s known for her sunny outlook, love of learning, and a fearless spirit (she’s even bungee jumped naked).

Craft & Creation ⚡

Caleb

Caleb grew up in Vernon, spending his summers working alongside his dad's construction company and living on an off-grid property up Silverstar. He spent about 90% of his time outside in the bush, chopping firewood and learning construction from a young age. His upbringing didn't just teach him trades, it shaped who he is. Hard work, no complaints, and pride in everything you put your hands on. Before joining Elk Ridge, Caleb built a background across truss manufacturing, residential framing, mill work, and drywall, picking up skills wherever the work took him and carrying the same mindset throughout: quality over quantity. When he came across Elk Ridge on Indeed, the company checked every box. He got the call, was offered the job on the spot, and took the chance. His words: "Best decision I could have made." At Elk Ridge, Caleb is known for his calm presence, attention to detail, and willingness to step up wherever the team needs him, especially when it comes to exterior finish work. Outside of work, you'll find him golfing, dirt biking, snowboarding, and exploring with his wife and four kids. Caleb works hard so him and his family can enjoy the life they've built together. When he's not on the job, he's building a life he's just as proud of.

Nathan

Nathan has called the Vernon area home for the past 20 years. Where his passion for building began early, framing houses while still in high school. That first hands-on experience sparked a lifelong dedication to craftsmanship and quality. Over the years, he’s worked across nearly every part of construction, from framing to full custom home builds, each project sharpening his skills and eye for detail. The lessons he’s carried through it all are simple but defining: take pride in your work, never cut corners, and always keep learning. Drawn to Elk Ridge for its strong culture, craftsmanship, and well-equipped shop, Nathan brings a steady, reliable presence to every build. He takes genuine satisfaction in seeing a project come together from start to finish. Built right, built to last, and built with care. Outside of work, Nathan loves snowboarding, camping, fishing, hiking, and swimming with his family, enjoying all four seasons the Okanagan has to offer. His approach to both life and building is straightforward: “Do it once, do it right.”

David

David grew up in Langley, BC, and spent most of his career in warehouse operations, eventually working his way up to operations and terminal manager before retiring. Over the years, he’s also worked on the railroad, in logging, and even as a pub manager, gaining a lifetime of experience in leadership and hard work. Those years taught him the importance of leading by example and listening to people, values he still brings to the job every day. After his son introduced him to Elk Ridge, David joined the team eager to learn new skills and contribute wherever he could. Now, he takes pride in helping others understand strong work ethics while learning the craft of metal installation on builds. Known for his easygoing nature and sense of humor, David keeps the team grounded and laughing in equal measure. Outside of work, he enjoys playing guitar, building things at home, and living a simple but active life. As he puts it, “I had two choices... tour the world as a rock star, or work for Elk Ridge Cabin Co. I chose Elk Ridge because it has way better management.”

Robin

Robin has always loved working with his hands and knew from an early age that he wanted to be a builder. One of his first big projects was building scoreboards for his local hockey arena, an experience that taught him problem-solving, perseverance, and the value of learning on the fly. When he came across Elk Ridge on Indeed, he immediately connected with the company’s craftsmanship and purpose. After learning more about the products, he knew he wanted to be part of the team. Robin brings positivity, drive, and a strong sense of teamwork to every build, motivating those around him with his energy and passion for the craft. He takes pride in creating spaces people can truly love and in helping keep the crew motivated and having fun along the way. Outside of work, Robin enjoys cooking, spending time with family, golfing, playing frisbee golf, and working on projects at home. He’s fascinated by ancient architecture and history and believes that smiling is the key to happiness. For Robin, building at Elk Ridge is more than a job. It’s a chance to help bring people’s dreams to life while building a good life of his own.

Kevin

Kevin was born and raised in Kitchener, Ontario, where he grew up surrounded by nature, summers in the Muskokas, and years in the Scouts Canada program. Those early outdoor adventures sparked a lifelong love of exploration that eventually led him west. After two incredible years traveling across the country in his van, Lucinda, Kevin and his fiancée put down roots in British Columbia. He got his start in carpentry through his family’s business, a three-generation company built on integrity, quality, and teamwork. Values he’s carried into every project since. When he discovered Elk Ridge, he was immediately drawn to the craftsmanship and creativity of the builds. Today, he’s proud to be part of a team that shares his dedication to doing things right and never stops learning. Kevin brings a positive mindset, steady skill, and genuine enthusiasm to every job site. Outside of work, he’s passionate about hunting, fishing, and prospecting. Even finding enough gold with his fiancée to make their own wedding rings. They now spend their time exploring, metal detecting, and adventuring with their husky, Maya, and their daughter. For Kevin, life is all about embracing the wild ride and finding joy in every moment.

Troy

Troy grew up in Vernon and Lumby before spending years working across Canada in the modular and camp industries. With more than a decade of experience in modular housing, Troy has worked on everything from large-scale oilfield camps and mining projects to community housing projects and net-zero developments throughout BC. One of the standout milestones in his career was helping design and build a 2,500-person camp from the ground up in Bear Lake. Before joining Elk Ridge, Troy spent years self-employed, building experience across carpentry, plumbing, craning, equipment operation, and modular installation. His ability to adapt across trades, solve problems on-site, and manage complex installs has made him a key part of the transportation and set crew. More recently, he’s taken pride in learning the craft of metal installation and contributing to the finished exterior details that bring each project together. After more than 10 years working on the road, Troy was ready for a better work-life balance and the opportunity to stay closer to home while continuing to work in an industry he genuinely enjoys. At Elk Ridge, he brings a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a deep appreciation for building quality spaces that last. Outside of work, Troy is happiest outdoors — camping, quading, hiking, gardening, and spending time with family. His philosophy is simple: “Do unto others as you would have done for yourself.”

Collin

Collin grew up between Calgary, Tsuu Tina Nation, and the Okanagan, grounded from an early age in family, culture, and time spent on the land. He got his start at 17 working in a cabinet shop, and by 19 had found his way into modular home building where his passion for carpentry took hold. Over the next 20 years he sharpened his skills across carpentry, renovations, and welding, eventually earning his Red Seal. One of his most meaningful personal builds along the way was his first sweat lodge, built with red willow along Okanagan Lake. When Collin came across Elk Ridge on social media, the fit was immediately clear. A company that builds with purpose and takes quality seriously aligns with everything he values as a tradesman. He brings deep modular building experience, strong production knowledge, and a work ethic rooted in doing things right the first time. At Elk Ridge, he shows up ready to contribute and takes genuine pride in building homes that are made to last. Outside of work, Collin is a husband and father of six, and his family is the center of everything. You'll find him on the sidelines at hockey, lacrosse, and baseball, out on the land hunting and harvesting, or exploring on his quad. He lives by a straightforward philosophy: work hard, take pride in what you build, and provide for your family.

Holly

Holly grew up around Armstrong, BC, while also spending time living in places like Thompson, Manitoba and exploring parts of the United States along the way. Her path hasn’t always been easy, but those experiences helped shape her resilience, optimism, and ability to keep moving forward no matter the challenge — something she brings into her work every day along with a positive attitude and strong attention to detail. Before joining Elk Ridge, Holly spent most of her career working in kitchens, where she developed a strong work ethic, adaptability, and appreciation for teamwork. Although construction was a completely new industry for her, she was drawn to the craftsmanship behind the builds and eager to learn something new. Today, Holly takes pride in preparing completed units for clients, making sure every cabin or sauna feels fresh, clean, and ready for its new owners. She loves seeing the finished product come together and helping showcase the care and effort that went into every build. Outside of work, Holly enjoys music, live performances, crafting, and constantly learning new creative skills. One philosophy she carries with her comes from Gandalf the Grey: “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

Joshua

Joshua grew up in Lumby, BC, where he developed a strong connection to both the outdoors and hands-on work from an early age. Coming from a family rooted in construction, he started working alongside his dad young and followed that passion into a career spanning residential and commercial construction, forestry, and mineral exploration. Those experiences helped shape his strong work ethic, positive attitude, and belief that attention to detail always matters — even in the small things. Before joining Elk Ridge, Joshua worked on a wide variety of projects, including several hospitals, while also spending years working in the woods. He was drawn to Elk Ridge through a shared passion for attainable, non-traditional housing and the opportunity to combine his love of building with the outdoor lifestyle he values so much. Today, Joshua enjoys collaborating with the team to create unique builds that people can genuinely connect with and afford. He takes pride in bringing a positive mindset, attention to detail, and practical experience to every project. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, fishing, gardening, and cooking, and values building a strong sense of community with the people around him. He is also currently pursuing a diploma in sustainable building design and construction management, with a particular interest in off-grid building and sustainable living. One philosophy he carries with him is: “Sometimes you just need to find a mountain.”