In October 2006 Janet joined the Council, bringing over 20 years of experience in urban and environmental planning and policy. Previously she served as Director of the San Francisco Bay Trail Project (1998-2004) and Planning Director of the Association of Bay Area Governments (2004-2006). Janet has worked extensively with public agencies and districts, elected officials, developers and advocates to advance long-distance multi-use trails. She was instrumental in developing the competitive grant program now offered collaboratively by the Ridge Trail and the Coastal Conservancy. The program was specifically structured to target high priority segments and critical gaps, to leverage State funds with matching contributions, and to foster new partnerships and creative design solutions. Janet is an avid hiker and enjoys both up- and down-hill sections, and has a particular affinity for trails that afford Bay views. She also enjoys kayaking and travel. Janet earned a BS in Environmental Policy and Analysis Planning from the University of California, Davis, and a Masters in Urban Planning from the University of Illinois, Chicago.

Ryan joined the Ridge Trail in 2021. He brings 15 years of experience on three continents, working with the private sector, government agencies, non-profits, international NGOs, and philanthropic organizations. Before joining the Ridge Trail, Ryan was a program officer at the Goldman Environmental Foundation and built relationships with policymakers, funders, grassroots activists, Indigenous leaders, community groups working on the frontlines of environmental justice. Ryan's experience includes managing environmental programs with Ecology Action, Pacific Gas & Electric Co., the University of San Francisco, and the US Peace Corps. An avid trail runner, gravel biker, hiker, and backpacker, Ryan grew up in the countryside of Mendocino County and enjoys exploring the wealth of trails around the Bay Area with his family. He has a bachelor's degree from UC Santa Cruz and a master's degree in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco.

Marie joined the Ridge Trail in 2020 and brings over twenty years of experience as a leader and innovator in non-profits, educational organizations and social enterprises at the intersection of nature, health & sustainability. Her recent work supported transformative, mission-driven organizations in building their fundraising and programmatic capabilities with leadership roles at Naturebridge and Barnraiser, and strategic consulting for the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy and The SF Market. She holds a B.B.A. in Marketing from James Madison University and an M.S.Ed in Education from the Bank Street College. Marie can be found hiking and biking Bay Area trails with friends and family or jumping in the Bay for a swim at the Dolphin Club. She's a board member for the Garden for the Environment, with a passion for gardening and growing food in her spare time. Marie is always looking for a new challenge and is eager to explore new sections of the trail to add miles to her Trail Tracker.

Sharon joined the Ridge Trail staff in January 2018

Natalia joined the Ridge Trail in 2023. They come to the team with years of experience with activating community spaces through events. Prior to joining the Ridge Trail Team, Natalia worked for Moveable Co. There, they collaborated with small businesses and creative communities in San Jose. Cultural festivals, night markets, and film festivals were highlights of their work. Their passion rests on diversity in representation, empathy for lived experiences, and amplifying under heard voices. Natalia has a BA in History of Art and Visual Culture from the University of California, Santa Cruz. They are an avid cyclist and a leader in the Bay Area cycling community. You can find them summiting mountains, riding sections of the Ridge Trail, or bikepacking throughout California.

Ryan joined the Ridge Trail team in 2022 and brings experience in trail development and technical project management. Prior to joining, he led trail building crews with the Utah Conservation Corps. He has also served as an environmental educator at an outdoor science camp, working with youth to foster a love of the outdoors through hiking, adventure sports, and science classes. He started his career as a technical project manager, working with a variety of clients to develop GIS software applications and improve data processes. He brings a diverse background and skill set that is enhanced by his passion for trails and getting people outside. He’s an avid backpacker and has completed a 2,200 mile thru hike of the Appalachian Trail. Ryan grew up in Dallas, Texas and received his Bachelors in Economics and Masters in Economics with a focus in Data Science from the University of Oklahoma.

Alex joined the Ridge Trail in 2020 bringing her experience in public engagement and project management to the team. Before joining the Ridge Trail she managed communications projects for a range of local organizations, from water districts to transportation agencies. In 2017 Alex completed a Climate Corps fellowship with Alameda County. The program introduced her to the environmental challenges facing the Bay Area and strengthened her love for its natural spaces. Alex graduated from the University of California Santa Cruz with degrees in Environmental Studies and Anthropology. She grew up in Sacramento enjoying very hot summers along the American River, and now loves exploring trails near her home in Oakland and beyond with her dog, Toby.

Lisa Rigby joined the Ridge Trail staff in 2020. She has provided administrative backbone to growing organizations with big goals, including small startups, higher education, and established businesses in the private sector. Most recently, Lisa worked as a Community Manager at Port Workspaces, where she provided member support, streamlined operations, and guided new protocols in response to COVID mitigation needs. Lisa’s role at the Ridge Trail is a perfect marriage of her professional skills and her personal passion for nature. She knows a simple walk in the woods can be a profound experience, providing sanctuary from our fears and anxieties, and moving us to live up to our roles as stewards of the outdoors. A graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art, Lisa also creates artwork inspired by her hikes around the Bay.