Jake Bartells for Navhda President

07/30/2025

NAVHDA’s mission simply wouldn’t be possible without its breeders. While the organization works hard to foster and promote versatile hunting dogs, it’s our dedicated breeders who put that data to work to improve their lines and elevate the breeds.

The passion for our dogs runs deep in NAVHDA, and my goal is to work side by side with breeders, offering tools and resources that help take their programs to the next level. I’ve already begun conversations with industry leaders, and the possibilities for organizing, presenting, and customizing NAVHDA data to meet breeder needs are remarkable.

Even better, these improvements won’t just support breeders, they’ll help puppy buyers more easily connect with the right pairings to match their goals and lifestyle.

As for cost? We’re already finding support from like-minded individuals, and I’ll be forming a fundraising team to make sure this effort has a minimal impact on our current operating budget.

Expanding data access and improving breeder resources are central to NAVHDA’s future. I look forward to sharing more details in the coming weeks. If you’re a NAVHDA breeder and want to be part of the conversation, I’d love to hear from you.

07/28/2025

Had a great time chatting with Ryan from The Upland Social about my love for hunting new places behind great dogs. Episode airs this Wednesday - give it a listen 🎧

📸 Photo Credit: Ted Wentink

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-upland-social/id1815711708t

07/18/2025

Proud to work with Lisa Pehur, the NAVHDA registry committee and the team at the CEB to accomplish this new milestone for the Epagneul Breton!

The Epagneul Breton has reached a significant milestone in the United States: official breed recognition by the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA). This is more than just a formality — it’s a meaningful step in reinforcing the breed’s identity and purpose in North Americ...

07/08/2025

Most of you know me as a pretty solid “dog guy,” and I’m proud of that. I don’t usually talk much about my professional background, but I think it’s time to share a bit more.

My foundation in leadership was built early on when I earned the rank of Eagle Scout. It taught me how to lead with integrity and earn respect through service, dedication, and character. That experience set the tone for everything that’s followed.

After graduating from Drexel University in 2006, I began my career in structural engineering with The Harmon Group. From 2006–2010, I worked as a Design Engineer on multi-billion dollar fast-track construction projects—including some of the most prestigious casinos and resorts in Atlantic City and Pennsylvania.

In 2010, I took what I learned managing large, complex projects and founded my own company—PRIDE Construction Group. It’s a full-service construction and project management firm that I still own and operate today. The business has grown every year since its start, and I’ve been proud to lead teams through technically demanding builds, all while managing client relationships, vendors, budgets, and tight timelines.

Alongside that, I’ve built a real estate investment portfolio in Bucks County, PA—renovating and managing residential properties, and expanding that side of the business steadily over time. My home renovations have received town ‘PRIDE Awards’ for restoration and beautification.

I brought the same drive and strategic focus to the dog world. It all started in 2007 with my first Epagneul Breton pup, Ellie. Since then, I’ve trained and handled more than 25 dogs in NAVHDA tests—including a 6-for-6 pass record at the Invitational. I’ve also handled dogs in UKC field trials and conformation shows, NSTRA, VJP, and AKC Master Hunter events.

In 2019, I became a NAVHDA judge, and just four years later, the judging and testing committee promoted me to Senior Judge, recognizing my leadership traits and my ability to bring structure and fairness to the testing process and ensure every handler and dog has the chance to succeed.

I didn’t just stay in the field, either. From 2015 to 2024, I served as Vice President and a Board Member of the Club de l’Epagneul Breton of the United States, where I was proud to help lead the effort to gain NAVHDA recognition for the breed. I also served for serveral years on the NAVHDA promotions committee.

I’ve enjoyed experiencing the dog world from many different perspectives.

Over the years, I’ve built a reputation for leadership, collaboration, and result-driven decision-making—and I’m incredibly honored that many of NAVHDA’s most respected judges and past EC members recognize these traits in me and support my bid for presidency.

I’m ready to bring energy, experience, and a deep passion for well-trained hunting dogs to NAVHDA as your next President.

07/01/2025

“It’s not ours, it's just our turn,” is a quote I’ve grown to adore. There are few acts more forward thinking and selfless than giving for the purpose of preserving our hunting culture. I've heard countless stories from our parents and grandparents about the abundance of wild birds they were able to pursue. I fear for the generation that will tell a different story, a story of seasons closed and limits dropped. One where little access or opportunity was left. This is why I’m a proud Life Member of Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, and also a supporting member of the Ruffed Grouse Society, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, the North American Grouse Partnership, Back Country Hunters and Anglers, Ducks Unlimited, and the Sportsman’s Alliance. I’m so proud of my daughter Brooke who started Cookies for Conservation and raised over $6000 in her first year for Pheasants Forever.

06/20/2025

My nomination for NAVHDA President has been offically accepted.

With 17+ years in the organization and a lifetime of commitment to versatile hunting dogs, I’m excited to bring fresh energy, strong leadership, and a clear vision to NAVHDA’s future.

Print out the flyer below and share it with your local chapter, or share via email and social media. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Please feel free to reach out to me directly with questions.

📲 QR code link to his full website coming soon—stay tuned!