Thunderbird Bakery was started by Texas native Trent Wester after surviving his first winter in his new hometown of Oshkosh, WI. Combining his diverse skills as a craftsman with his passion for delicious, handcrafted food Trent began teaching himself the art of bread and pastry at home and with skilled mentors across the country.
Co-owner (and wife) Lizz Redman was convinced of the idea when the first batch of successful sourdough came out of their handbuilt, wood fired oven that lived in their driveway. Lizz received her Masters Degree in Health and Human Development with an emphasis in Sustainable Food Systems from Montana State University in 2013. Since then, she's helped launch several food start-ups across the country and is excited to bring fresh bread back to her hometown.
Thunderbird started selling at the Oshkosh Farmers Market in the summer of 2018. Using the Wisconsin Cottage Food Bill, they were able to bake at home and sell directly to customers. After quickly reaching capacity, the couple took the leap to expand into their own kitchen space.
Using a capital catalyst grant from the Greater Oshkosh Economic Development Corporation to round out their financing, the wholesale kitchen space was opened in November of 2019.
Thunderbird dreams of one day opening up a retail store, but until then they love providing the greater Oshkosh area with fresh bread and pastries.
When they're not working, Trent and Lizz love to explore the great outdoors, garden, travel, tickle their baby, and laugh.
