Crafted for the adventurous at heart, Turtleback Trailers is dedicated to ensuring The Herd can explore every corner of the U.S. in style. Manufactured in Gallatin, TN, our trailers are assembled to suit individual travel needs, and at the core of each build is our unparalleled team of fabricators, assemblers, and engineers – all ready to see you hit the trails in your luxury Turtleback Trailer.
Building Bonds with Nature — Turtleback Trailers is more than just a trailer; it's a bridge connecting people and the great outdoors. Unite with fellow trailblazers, embrace the call of the wild, and discover nature's wonders with Turtleback Trailers as your companion.
Fortune Favors the Brave — With Turtleback Trailers, adventure becomes your destiny. Conquer uncharted paths & let Turtleback guide you. Journey into the heart of nature, where every expedition becomes a tale of bravery with Turtleback Trailers as your trusted ally.
Hebrews 13:16 Inspires Us — "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have." Embark on adventures with a community of like-minded explorers. Spread the thrill of Turtleback Trailers with every journey, sharing your passion for adventure far and wide!
Our team is a mix of passionate visionaries and creators, excited to design and manufacture trailers that embody the essence of the great outdoors. We invite you to visit our facility, meet our team, and take in the soul of Turtleback Trailers. Stepping into our world is an opportunity to embrace the wilderness and venture out of your comfort zone toward a life of exploration.
Jake’s background blends more than eight years of professional experience in both the hospitality and manufacturing sections. He has experience in customer-faced roles and a growing knowledge of both manufacturing and design. He has a great sense for manufacturing, metal processing, material flow and organization, and component design. Jake enjoys diving deeper into SolidWorks, Jake is the creative force behind Turtleback Trailers, bringing a wealth of experience and an eye for innovation to his role as Design Engineer. With a background in mechanical engineering and a passion for the outdoors, Jake ensures every trailer is not only functional but also stylish and comfortable. His dedication to creating the perfect balance between rugged durability and home-like comfort is evident in every design he crafts. Outside of work, Jake's passions include attending bluegrass festivals, making music, and cooking. He loves hanging out with friends, taking road trips, and occasionally skateboarding. One of his favorite places to visit is Zion National Park in Utah, where he finds peace and inspiration in the breathtaking scenery.
What was your dream job as a child?
I’ve always wanted to be a professional musician. I love all kinds of music. I actually just created an intro song for a cartoon recently.
What ignited your interest in overlanding?
love the process of making something from start to finish. Its really rewarding in a special way.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I did a 6,000 mile road trip from Nashville, TN to Joshua Tree, California. We then went to LA, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Utah, and then back.
Cody brings over 15 years of manufacturing experience to the Turtleback Team, specializing in commercial vehicle upfitting, electrical systems, and mechanical and hydraulic systems. His background includes roles in manufacturing and logistics, with expertise in welding and fabrication gained during nearly ten years at a Fortune 500 company. Cody is integral to the assembly line, ensuring each trailer meets rigorous standards of craftsmanship and durability. With a meticulous eye for detail and hands-on leadership style, Cody leads his team with precision and dedication. His mechanical assembly expertise and lifelong passion for adventure perfectly align with Turtleback’s commitment to quality and rugged design. Apart from his work, Cody enjoys camping, hunting, and fishing. He actively participates in organizing hockey tournaments to support the Make a Wish foundation and spends quality time with his four kids. Originally from Wisconsin, Cody has called Tennessee home for the past six years, embracing the heat and humidity but holding on to his love for cold weather, snow, and the mountains. He also enjoys vacationing at the beach and building things with his hands.
What was your dream job as a child?
“Professional Snow cross racer.”
What’s the most valuable career advice you’ve received?
Chase what you want, work hard at it, and never give up!”
How did growing up in your hometown shape who you are today?
“I grew up in New Berlin, WI. Everything I do, professionally and personally, started in, or is related to, something I did there.”
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
“Be smart with what you do, but still have fun doing it!”
Josh brings six years of manufacturing and fabricating experience to Turtleback Trailers. A graduate of Tennessee College of Applied Technology with a certificate in Welding Technology, he takes immense pride in his craftsmanship. Known for his meticulous attention to detail in welding, fabrication, fit, and form, Josh ensures each trailer meets high standards of quality. As the Fabrication Lead at Turtleback Trailers, Josh is the master craftsman behind every robust trailer framework. His expertise in metalwork and welding guarantees each trailer is built to endure the toughest conditions. With a passion for off-roading and years of fabrication experience, Josh brings unmatched skill and dedication to his role, creating trailers renowned for their durability and reliability. In his free time, Josh enjoys running, playing men's softball, and hiking. He shares a love for farming with his dad and holds a special appreciation for meals cooked by his mom. Originally from Indiana, Josh enriches the Turtleback team with his diverse interests and commitment to excellence.
What’s the most valuable career advice you’ve received?
My dad told me “Be the best person in the building no matter who’s around or what’s going on."
What ignited your interest in overlanding?
Turtleback was my introduction to Overlanding. Getting into the community, meeting customers, doing it myself, and going to expos really got me excited about it overall.
What valuable lesson did you learn at Turtleback?
Patience is a virtue. If you’re building a high-quality product like we are, you need to understand it takes time and exceptional care/attention to detail.
What’s one technology or tool you can’t live without in your job?
Electric Ratchet. I will never go back to a normal ratchet. It saves so much time and allows me to spend that time saved on other aspects of the job.
Jaxson is a skilled fabricator at Turtleback Trailers, specializing in assembling trailers, welding chassis, and fabricating all parts with precision and care. His hands-on role involves working closely with the production team to ensure each trailer meets high standards of durability and quality. With experience in construction, lawn care, and retail at Tractor Supply, Jaxson brings a strong work ethic and practical know-how to every project. A proud graduate of Liberty Creek High School and TCAT, he combines formal training with real-world skills to help build trailers designed for adventure and reliability. When he’s not in the shop, Jaxson enjoys riding four-wheelers and fishing, embracing the outdoors whenever he can. As an only child, he values hard work and independence, taking pride in being an essential part of a team that crafts products made to last.
What was your dream job as a child?
I wanted to be an archaeologist when I was a kid. I was fascinated by dinosaurs and loved learning about history. The idea of digging up the past and discovering ancient secrets sounded like the ultimate adventure.
What ignited your interest in overlanding (interchangeable with manufacturing)?
My interest in manufacturing started with my high school shop teacher and my dad, who worked in tool and die. They both encouraged me to follow my passion, and that guidance led me to where I am today.
What’s one technology or tool you can’t live without in your job?
Welding lead—because without it, nothing gets built. It’s the connection that makes everything come to life in the factory.
If you could switch jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be and why?
I’d switch with a race car driver—no one in particular, I just love the thrill of going fast. It’d be an adrenaline-filled day doing something totally different but still mechanical and high-energy.
What’s the best part about working with your team at Turtleback Trailers?
The best part about working with the team at Turtleback Trailers is the friendships we’ve built, the open communication, and the fact that we genuinely have fun together. It makes every day more enjoyable and productive.
Sam is the driving force behind Turtleback Trailers’ direct sales efforts, connecting adventurers with the perfect trailer for their journeys. With a natural talent for building relationships and a deep understanding of customer needs, Sam ensures a personalized and satisfying sales experience. His background in sales and a passion for the outdoors make him a key asset to the Turtleback team. With 5 years of leadership and military experience, Sam brings an extensive background to Turtleback Trailers. Outside of work, he enjoys sailing, free diving, and staying fit through workouts and reading. Having lived in 7 states and sailed around the Caribbean twice, Sam brings a wealth of experiences to his role. At Turtleback Trailers, Sam spearheads direct sales efforts, connecting adventurers with the ideal trailer for their journeys. His knack for building relationships and deep understanding of customer needs ensures a personalized and satisfying sales experience. With a strong sales background and a passion for the outdoors, Sam is a valuable asset to the Turtleback team.
What was your dream job as a child?
I always wanted to be in the military, which I did. When I left, I carried with me a passion for being outdoors. Turtleback has been a vehicle through which I can continue to pursue that passion.
What’s the most valuable career advice you’ve received?
I always go to my Dad for advice, a relationship I’m incredibly grateful for. He’s very humble. He once told me “If mistakes are the foundation of education, I am a well educated man.”
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I’ve now been on two sailing trips to the Caribbean lasting several weeks each time. It’s always a great way to experience the region, culture, and wildlife.
What’s the best part about working with your team at Turtleback Trailers?
I’ve been on a lot of really great teams. I can honestly say this one is my favorite. I learn something new every day and I’m really lucky to be here.
Katelyn leads Turtleback Trailers’ marketing initiatives, crafting strategies that elevate brand awareness and engagement. Known for her trend-savvy approach and compelling storytelling skills, she ensures that the adventurous ethos and quality of Turtleback Trailers captivate audiences worldwide. With a background in marketing and a deep love for the outdoors, Katelyn plays a pivotal role in promoting Turtleback Trailers as a leader in the industry. When not at work, Katelyn spends her time with her two daughters, who keep her active and engaged, or surrounded by her friends and family. Drawing from her background in criminal law, Katelyn values personal connections and finds fulfillment in creative endeavors. She also thrives on challenges, embracing them as opportunities for growth and innovation.
Do you have any hidden skills or talents that might surprise people?
I’ve been told several times that I’m a mnemonist. I can remember numbers (phone numbers, data, etc.) from two weeks ago or two years ago. If I lost my cell phone I could still call everyone I know based off memory!
What valuable lessons have you learned at Turtleback Trailers?
Teamwork makes the dreamwork! Everyone on our team assembling, selling and innovating together is the ultimate key to success.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I went cliff jumping in Jeremie, Haiti while on a mission trip. I was actually pregnant with my oldest daughter and had no idea.
What hobby or interest are you passionate about outside of work?
Running. It’s a love-hate relationship. Somedays I love running, somedays I want to love running and others I just flat out hate it…but I’m pushing myself to really like it.
John is the financial steward of Turtleback Trailers, ensuring the company’s fiscal health and guiding its economic strategies. With a strong background in finance and a meticulous attention to detail, John manages the company’s financial planning, analysis, and reporting. His commitment to financial integrity and efficiency helps keep Turtleback Trailers on the path to sustainable growth and success. His career spans more than 25 years of varied experience in implementing strategic initiatives to drive business growth and operational efficiency. Prior to joining Turtleback Trailers, John’s career focused on M&A advisory, strategic consulting, and entrepreneurial ventures. From 2007– 2016, John worked as an investment banker on Wall Street, and gained extensive expertise in finance, corporate board leadership, lower middle market business management, and operations. Earlier in his career, John served as an Air Intelligence Officer in the United States Marine Corps. He completed deployments to both Kuwait and Iraq during his time on active duty. Originally from Southern California, John earned his MBA from the Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Colorado Boulder.
What was your dream job as a child?
In Elementary School – a police office, in Junior High School – a professional baseball player, in High School – for a class I created a business plan to open an after-market off-road vehicle parts store. It’s very rewarding to be involved with a company that is serving a market I’ve had an interest in for so long.
What ignited your interest in overlanding?
The overlanding space is relatively new to North America and is an industry that is still being defined. It’s exciting to work in a product market that has so much undefined “whitespace”, especially with a product line that is a clear market leader.
What hobby or interest are you passionate about outside of work?
I enjoy being on the water, either boating on Tims Ford Lake, fly fishing or scuba diving (I don’t get to do this as often as I’d like).
If you could switch jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be and why?
For one day, I would love the opportunity to work in the kitchen of a Michelan Star restaurant. I enjoy cooking and am fascinated at the inner workings of a professional kitchen(as seen on several reality TV cooking shows). The experience would surely be educational, while also exhausting and very stressful.
What’s the best part about working with your team at Turtleback Trailers?
The best part of working with the team at Turtleback is the opportunity to be surrounded by like-minded people who are passionate about our products, customers and the industry we serve. We work hard and have fun while doing it.
Joshua is the visionary founder and owner of Turtleback Trailers, bringing his passion for adventure and dedication to quality to every aspect of the business. A proud veteran, Joshua leverages his background in the military to infuse resilience and precision into the company’s operations. His commitment to crafting exceptional trailers that enhance the outdoor experience is the driving force behind Turtleback Trailers’ success. In addition to his responsibilities at Turtleback Trailers, Joshua also owns and operates Wil-Ro, Inc., a company founded in 1973 with a strong legacy in manufacturing high-quality truck beds. He enjoys the excitement of acquisitions, has a love for manufacturing, and is passionate about building and growing great brands. Prior to acquiring Turtleback Trailers in 2023, and Wil-Ro, Inc.in 2017, Joshua’s career focused on a manufacturing track. From 2005 to 2017,he held various leadership roles at three Fortune 500 industrial companies, including Caterpillar and Joy Global. At 17, Joshua enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served for eight years. He completed three deployments to Okinawa, one to South Korea, and another to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Joshua earned his MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and has a Bachelor of Arts from DePaul University. When he’s not at the factory, Joshua loves being outdoors—running, biking, camping, or hiking. He finds comfort in woodworking and building projects. He enjoys spending time with his three daughters and discovering new places with his family.
What was your dream job as a child?
As a young child, a paperboy. By middle school, a Marine.
What ignited your interest in overlanding?
I love being outdoors. The creativity and energy in this industry excites me. Running, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and exploring keep me going. Is there anything better than cooking breakfast in nature? Or sleeping under the stars?
How did growing up in your hometown shape who you are today?
Where you grew up, the street on which you lived, your surroundings as a child, key role models early on, your kindergarten teacher, your first bicycle, your neighborhood church at the time, the butcher on the corner – they all define you; should you choose.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Deployed to Iraq. Ran the Los Angeles Marathon. Purchased two companies.