ABOUT US

OUR STORY
Next Level Barbell started as a mission to provide real strength training, attached to a community of lifters that felt like home. What started as a dream in a 240 square foot garage gym has now become the best equipped gym in Milwaukie.

Next Level Barbell is an 1800 square foot gym in Milwaukie Oregon. Next Level is the sister gym of Strength Union in Portland, and staffed by the best coaches in the region.

Next Level Barbell seeks to become the best training facility in Milwaukie, the great Portland area, and the pacific northwest through Strength, Community, and Excellence.

NEXT LEVEL BARBELL COACHES

Jordan Stanton BSN, PBC, PN1 - Owner
Jordan Stanton RN, PBC, Pn1, is the Owner of Next Level Barbell and of Strength Union Jordan is proud to be a Professional Barbell Coach (PBC) and certified Precision Nutrition Coach (Pn1), and Powerlifting United (PLU) Judge and Meet Director. Elite Powerlifter (700,475,700) and competitive BJJ athlete, Jordan has coached multiple world champions and record holders. After receiving his BSN degree from the University of Portland in 2009, Jordan spent ten years as a critical care nurse. He uses his extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medicine to the benefit of his clients. Jordan, when not moving iron, can often be found on the jiu jitsu mats, the rock wall, producing dubstep, and traveling the beautiful nature of Oregon.

Be strong, look strong.

Austin Williams - Head Strength Coach
Austin Williams is a full time strength coach and competitive powerlifter. Austin coaches a team of lifters that range from absolute novices to national record holders. He specializes in a "power building" method of training. Practical strength, big totals, and aesthetic physiques go hand in hand. Austin utilizes compound movements, select accessory work and performance nutrition interventions to facilitate his clients in reaching their strength and aesthetic goals. Outside the gym, you can find Austin hiking with his family and training his dog Samson.

McKenzie Tarkalson - Assistant Coach
McKenzie is an accountant by day and strength athlete by night. As one of the longest standing Next Level Barbell athletes, McKenzie seeks to use her experience and knowledge to help others on their own strength training journeys. She specializes in training women both in powerlifting and general strength.