TILT is more than a ladder—it's a legacy. Founded by fourth-generation designer Trevor Wendell, the company draws on over a century of family history rooted in craftsmanship, design, and a deep love for the water. From his great-grandfather's early days building homes in Illinois to his grandfather’s custom-designed pier and ingenious dock ladder on Hamlin Lake, each generation contributed to a tradition of purposeful design. Inspired by summers spent on the lake and the enduring reliability of his grandfather’s ladder, Trevor has combined his family's architectural heritage with modern manufacturing and design to reimagine the dock ladder as both a functional and nostalgic piece—built to last, built with heart.
We recognized the lack of innovation in the market and the frustrations people have with their experience using other dock ladders. TILT was born out of that frustration. The market was flooded with cheaply made, uninspired products that break easily and constantly need to be replaced. Quality was sacrificed for price, and the user experience wasn't even a thought. We knew there had to be a smarter, more thoughtful way forward. So we built it.
Trevor's grandfather, a design-build architect, designing the first rendition of what later would become TILT.
Trevor went on to study woodworking & design at Herron School of Art and Design. Upon graduating he retrieved the original ladder and rebuilt it from scratch.
TILT goes back out onto the dock on Hamlin Lake in Ludington, MI.
The switch from wood to a much more sturdy and reliable aluminum.
The weight at the top of the ladder was replaced with a hydraulic strut for a smooth return.
The second version of TILT makes it to the dock.
First taste of press coverage from the local newspaper.
TILT is finally showcased to the world and available for purchase.
The third rendition of TILT is born, the most robust and reliable version to date.