LENOIR, N.C. (August 3, 2026) -The Northwest NC Mountain Bike Alliance is pleased to announce the hiring of Oliver Sendall as Executive Director and Josh Taylor as Lead Trail Specialist.
These hires come at a key moment for the organization following a historic $4.5 million grant award to restore trails across the region. In partnership with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) and their “2026 Strategic Projects Initiative” and funding from the USDA Forest Service American Relief Act, 2025, along with additional support from parent organization, Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA), this multi-year effort focuses on rebuilding storm-damaged trails in the Pisgah National Forest and expanding local trail workforce capacity.
Executive Director: Oliver Sendall
Oliver Sendall brings more than 15 years of professional experience in outdoor recreation, non-profit administration, and grant management to the Executive Director role. Most recently, Oliver served as Program Manager for BikeWalk NC, where he managed statewide programs and helped secure over $900,000 in grant funding. His background in park and trail planning also includes partnering on the development of the Wannamaker North mountain bike trail system for Charleston County Parks. Throughout his career, Oliver has demonstrated a strong track record of aligning community needs with public agency goals, securing critical capital, and building sustainable regional programs.
As Executive Director, Oliver will guide organizational growth, grant execution, and community advocacy across the region. He will work closely with public agency partners, community donors, and regional stakeholders to ensure long-term trail access and fiscal health for the organization. While his responsibilities include supporting Hurricane Helene recovery initiatives, his role covers the full scope of Alliance operations, partnerships, and strategic priorities.
Lead Trail Specialist: Josh Taylor
Josh Taylor steps into the Lead Trail Specialist position with decades of experience riding, volunteering, and leading in the Wilson Creek area. He has contributed thousands of volunteer hours to local trail building and served as a leader in initial Hurricane Helene damage assessment and recovery efforts alongside the USFS.
Josh has been recognized for his contributions to the Alliance, earning Volunteer of the Year honors in both 2021 and 2023. He was also previously recognized for his work at Poston Park in Gaston County, where he served as lead designer for a trail system that grew into a recognized National Recreation Trail. In his new role with the Alliance, Josh will be working exclusively on Hurricane Helene recovery efforts within the Grandfather District of the Pisgah National Forest, leading field operations and technical trail work.
Leadership Statements
“We are thrilled to welcome Oliver and Josh to our team at such a pivotal time for us,” said Brian Massengill, President of the Alliance. “Their combined leadership, field experience, and passion for trail stewardship will be key as we expand our capacity and execute major restoration projects across our mountain region.”
“SORBA is proud to support the Alliance as they take this important step forward,” said Philip Darden, Executive Director of SORBA. “Building professional capacity on the ground is critical for the long-term trail sustainability of our chapters, and we are excited to see the positive impact Oliver and Josh will have in the Pisgah National Forest and surrounding communities.”
Looking Ahead to More Career Opportunities
As part of this grant-funded capacity expansion, the Alliance will soon be hiring additional staff, including two Trail Specialists, a Volunteer Coordinator and seasonal trail crew members. Details on forthcoming job openings will be posted soon at ridenwnctrails.com/jobs/.
About the Northwest NC Mountain Bike Alliance
The Northwest NC Mountain Bike Alliance is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and chapter of the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA). Dedicated to increasing access to the social, physical, and mental benefits of mountain biking, the Alliance advocates for, builds, and stewards well-planned, accessible, and progressive trail systems for riders of all abilities and backgrounds across Northwest North Carolina.
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