Birgit’s knowledge of footwear and feet was gained from her father, a master shoemaker certified in Germany. She began helping out in his shop at age 8 and earned one dollar an hour and a daily piece of lemon meringue pie. This early introduction into the industry led her to intern at age 17 under an occupational therapist who specialized in lower limb biomechanics. Birgit has remarked that “to this day I have found few people who have as great a knowledge of the foot as she had.” In 1990, she completed her honors diploma in prosthetics and orthotics at BCIT and went on to work in Vancouver mainly in pediatrics. Time at BC Children’s Hospital enhanced her knowledge base and provided her with the opportunity to attend specialized clinics and further her training. Upon moving to the Okanagan in 1998, Birgit continued to serve a strong mix of pediatric clients, clients with various challenging pathologies and neuromuscular clients in a rehabilitation setting. She has given many in services on diabetic foot care and offloading strategies and is hopefully some of the information passed on has saved a leg or two. In 2006 Birgit started her private practice and Ortho Design was formed. Her keen interest in her field, attention to detail, and focus on the needs of her clients has dictated numerous clients continuing to have their braces designed and built by Ortho Design. “I have enjoyed seeing kids grow up and following them for 20 years plus. It is such a satisfying feeling to know that clients know that they can come to me years down the road.”