Austin was born and raised in Bismarck. He grew up south of Bismarck close to Kimball Bottoms. As a child, he enjoyed exploring nature and using his imagination in his exploration. He would often build forts using any tools his dad would let him.

Austin graduated from St. Mary’s Central High School and went on to BSC. He decided to enter into the trades and started to learn drywall at age 21 and realized that he really enjoyed hands-on work. The satisfaction of completing a job is what was most enjoyable for him. In 2008 Austin decided to start Hangman Drywall Inc. A full-service drywall company. He continues to provide services while teaching but on a smaller scale. 

Mr Bitz is passionate about helping children and young adults to plan out and build things. He has 4 children with his wife Kelley. The opportunity to teach workshop is very exciting for him. Austin believes in imaginative building, but also planned project building. He has been involved in many construction projects over the years. He will bring a wide skill set to the classroom and to the farm.

Austin has been a Catechist teacher for the last six years. He is very engaged in the Catholic faith and in serving the St. Joseph’s parish. Along with being a Catechist Mr. Bitz is the youth group director for the parish. He is also a 4th-degree knight in the Knights of Columbus. Austin is currently enrolled in the Diaconate program and is going into the 3rd year, entering into candidacy. He has come to realize that a life of service is very important and serving the school and the parish is the best way he can serve and do God’s will.