Katie Gray

Program Co-Coordinator

Katie grew up in Northern Michigan, an area that fostered her love for the outdoors. Katie attended Michigan State University where she received her bachelors of science in plant biology and environmental biology. Before her position with CAKE, Katie worked as a research assistant for MSU's Forest Carbon and Climate Program, where she helped develop graduate courses focused on the implementation of climate-smart forest management. 

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Katie loves science communication and enjoys observing and teaching about all the little connections in nature that you've never noticed before. 

Wade Foster

Program Co-Coordinator

Wade is originally from southern Michigan but has spent summers with his family in Charlevoix Michigan his entire life. Wade started with CAKE CISMA as a field technician while he was still in college at Grand Valley State University. After graduating with a B.S. in Natural Resource Management he moved to Northern Michigan and accepted the position of Restoration Crew Lead. In addition to his degree, Wade holds both fire ecology and ArcGIS certificates. 

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In the office, you'll often find Wade working with ArcGIS, training seasonal staff, and meticulously planning for the field season. Outside of the office Wade is an avid long-distance runner and enjoys backpacking and spending time with his family. 

Tyler Lancaster

Restoration Crew Leader

Tyler grew up in Southeast Michigan, his love of hiking drove him to pursue a career in the natural resources to better protect our wild spaces.  Tyler attended the University of Michigan and received his bachelors of science in Wildlife Biology. Before accepting his position with CAKE, Tyler took part in the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program to gain the skill and experience needed to be an effective member of the natural community. He served two service terms with the program: one as an engagement specialist in Lansing focusing on volunteer engagement and outreach and the other as a stewardship technician in Leelanau helping keep the peninsula beautiful.

Tyler is an avid birder and you’ll often find him outside staring up into the trees looking for birds or attempting to improve his bird identification skills by sound alone.