2025 Leaders Lab participant profiles

Leaders Lab is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to engage Minnesota’s developing business leaders. It will enhance your personal and professional growth, connect you with business leaders statewide, and provide understanding into what drives Minnesota’s economy and how policy affects the success of business in our state. To learn more about Leaders Lab, click here. 

Check back to this page as more of our wonderful 2025 Leaders Lab participants are profiled!  

Profiled on July 11

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year?
My wife and I (and two kiddos) navigated our first litter of French Bulldogs (3). All of whom found great homes with families in MN/ND last summer. Apparently, we could not get enough of all the cuteness and decided to have a second litter of Frenchies (4) this winter. Fortunately, all went to loving homes in again in MN/ND this spring.

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?
SPAM, hah! I actually think its pretty cool that Wenonah canoes are made in Winona. Perhaps we can make a pitstop on the way back from RTP 😉

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?
I grew up on a beef cattle farm outside of a rural small town (Cushing) north of Little Falls, MN. Little Falls was home of Charles Lindbergh (1st non-stop flight from NYC to Paris in 1927). Little Falls was founded in 1848, and is one of the oldest towns in Minnesota.

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?
Not being afraid of failure, learning from mistakes, and celebrating opportunities for continual improvement. I’ve been fortunate to have many great mentors over the years who have influenced me with their positive advice for .professional growth.

Tell us something super interesting about yourself?
I met my now wife in the Army (National Guard) in 2005 while deployed to Kuwait during Operation Iraqi Freedom
 

Profiled on July 10

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
2024 was a year filled with growth. I took on more responsibilities in a leadership role within my company, and brought on some awesome new team members.

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
There's a few, but I'm a big fan of Cirrus and love the fact that Minnesota is home to one of the largest personal aircraft brands! 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in the village of Grafton, Wisconsin which is just north of Milwaukee. What was unique is that although we only graduated with 200 people per class, we had a large number of college athletes and some who made it to the big leagues. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Two things: Fail hard and fail fast. It's the idea of moving quickly, making mistakes, and having a bias for action. Also, always have complete ownership and accountability.

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
Although I love movies and TV shows, I typically am always out and about doing things in the cities or hitting as many golf courses as possible. I also am about to run my first half-marathon! 

Profiled on July 9

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
Our company acquired two new sites by word of mouth and reputation.   

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
SNOW!! 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I am from CA so I have not experienced much winter weather in my lifetime. My normal answer would be the mountains and beautiful scenery... but now that has been burned to the ground thanks to the fires that ripped through Los Angeles County lately. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
"What hurts us most is what's not being said." 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
Having almost died twice on the operating table 10 years ago, I am currently the healthiest I've ever been in my entire life.

Profiled on July 8

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
This past year I received and accepted an offer in the HR department, allowing me to develop leadership and project management skills while leveraging my IT background. I had the opportunity to perform as a DJ at two big events in my area, and on a personal note, I rescued and adopted two kittens, their names are Cash & Sage, making this year one of growth, new opportunities, and meaningful life changing experiences.  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Tricky question! But definitely my spouse! But if we're talking about non-human things, I’d say my kittens, since I rescued and adopted them here. And if we're looking at actual products, I'd go with Scotch tape — I use it to fix just about everything!

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Venezuela, and there are so many special things about my hometown. But lately, what I find myself craving the most is "Empanadas with wasakaka". The flavors and memories tied to that dish bring me right back home! 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
A piece of advice that has deeply impacted my leadership journey came from a leader I admire. He shared that, early in his career, he was never afraid to try new things because there are many years of work ahead, and it's not worth staying stuck in something that doesn't bring you full fulfillment. This perspective has encouraged me to embrace growth, take risks, and pursue opportunities that align with my passion and long-term goals.    

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
When I was 15, I became the administrator of an online virtual community and social networking game with over 5,000 daily active users and more than 30,000 registered users. It was a diverse community with players from all over Latin America, and it taught me a lot about leadership, community management, and problem-solving at a young age.

Profiled on July 4

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
A summer camp here in Minnesota for HIV-positive kids closed down - because there were no more kids with the illness due medical advancements!  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
I absolutely love my Faribault Mill woolen blankets! Nothing better on a cold Minnesota night than curling up with a good book and a warm blanket! 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska.  Being a college town, it was a fun mix of "big city" opportunities but a small-town feel.  College football gamedays were a big deal and everyone came out to enjoy the good time!  

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Bring people on your team who complement your skills.  Don't be afraid to hire someone who is better at something than you are - they will only grow your abilities while supporting you. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
My husband and I run a Tiny House AirBnB on the North Shore.  It was originally the 1st Tiny Home rental in the state of MN, by the first owner of the property in 2018.
 

Profiled on July 3

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
Got a new golden retriever puppy.      

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Honey Crisp apples. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Lake Elmo - small community with the second deepest lake in Minnesota. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
The harder you work the luckier you get. Be curious and listen to learn.    

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I have 46 solo skydive jumps and will continue to jump this coming summer.       

Profiled on July 2

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
Professionally I was successful in securing $15M for my client to treat an emerging contaminant in their water system. This was a battle for two years with a rewarding end to save the rate payers significant dollars.             

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Honey Crisp apples. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Cottage Grove, MN: The community feel it provided growing up in a medium sized community and playing sports with friends through graduation.

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
What got you here won't get you there. You bring your own weather.

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I have four kids and coach three different sports. I am an avid water skier. I started my own company with two partners, sold, and now joined WSB.     

Profiled on July 1

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I recently became an American citizen. 

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Minnesota high school hockey tournament. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Grew up in Western Canada, in the province of Alberta. The most special place about my home is being close proximity to the beautiful landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, Banff and Lake Louise.

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Nobody is going to be a better advocate for you than you. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I won a National championship with Minnesota Duluth hockey team in 2018 at Xcel.             
 

Profiled on June 30

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
This past year, I had the opportunity to give talks and contribute to the growing AI community in the Twin Cities. It has been rewarding to share insights, connect with other professionals, and help shape conversations around AI and data-driven leadership.

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Best Buy!

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in the capital of Egypt, Cairo! My historic hometown is a city where ancient wonders, including the iconic Pyramids of Giza, and modern life coexist. Full of vibrant culture, Cairo remains a timeless and dynamic city that bridges the past and present. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
True leadership is not sought after; it emerges through service, trust, and the willingness to elevate others before yourself.   

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I founded a consultancy startup in Egypt that helped businesses with their digital transformation and online presence (Active from 2015 to 2019).
 

Profiled on June 27

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
This past year was filled with lots of family memories. Trips to Florida, Colorado, and the Cabin. Life with two young boys is keeping us on our toes!    

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Minnesota sports teams – even with the heartbreak I’ve been through, they keep me coming back. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Apple Valley, MN – home of the Minnesota Zoo. Apple Valley is a great place to grow up with excellent schools, great parks, and an active sports-filled community. Many of my best friends to this day are those I met in elementary school – including my wife! 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
“Success isn’t owned, it’s leased. And rent is due every day.” I have this quote on my desk as a daily reminder to continually improve both personally and professionally.    

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
Over the past year, I finished our basement. Along the way, I leveraged friends and family, watched countless YouTube videos, and made a few mistakes. We have enjoyed hosting, having movie nights, and wrestling matches with the kids in our new space.
 

Profiled on June 26

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
While on a run I came across an abandoned kennel with two kittens inside. We ended up adopting them and they've brought our household so much joy!  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Wrecktangle Pizza!  

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Ham Lake, MN. I loved our quiet neighborhood and big backyard. My siblings and I spent a lot of time outside!  

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Be authentically you, even when it's hard (especially when it's hard). Being your authentic self is the greatest gift you can give yourself and others.    

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I recently completed my first ultramarathon - a 50k! It was very rewarding putting so much time and effort into training and to see it pay off. I highly recommend Wild Duluth races - miles and miles of stunning views on the iconic Superior Hiking Trail!
 

Profiled on June 23

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
My daughter made her first competitive soccer team. It was so exciting to watch her focus, practice, and accomplish her goals. 

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Friday Night Fish fry with some walleye caught from the lakes of Minnesota.

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Green Bay, WI. I grew up a couple blocks from Lambeau. In summer, I would ride my bike over every morning and a rookie player would use my bike to take the trek from the stadium to the practice field. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Relationships- internal or external, are your cornerstone. Without good relationships, your walls will crumble. With good ones, you can weather the storm.

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I have an obsession with cook books and almost never make the same recipe twice. If I do, it has to be a showstopper. 
 

Profiled on June 20

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I was promoted to a manager position at my company.  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
I make my own maple syrup so selfishly I will say that my own homemade maple syrup. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Duluth and what is special about the area is the access to premiere outdoor recreation. Fishing, hunting, camping, biking, boundary waters canoe area, etc. The outdoor opportunities provided by this area make it a great place to grow up and live.  

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
The importance of communication and being able to listen more than you speak. Giving others an opportunity and avenue to voice their opinion before giving yours. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I just found out I was color blind this year.
 

Profiled on June 19

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
Introduced a new family member, his name is Koda and he is an Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler). Quite the handful!  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Snow Hound! (snow blower). I believe the very first one was in Canada, although Toro invented the first "consumer mass-marketed walk-behind snow blower" called the Snow Hound. I still rely on my Toro every winter!

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Taylor's Falls, MN. Very small community, tight-knit and provides a welcoming feel. My first job was also in Taylors Falls, working the mini-putt at the "Drive-in" Restaurant when I was 14. We enjoyed the outdoors, cliff jumping into the St. Croix river, fishing, hunting and snowboarding at Wild Mountain and Trollhaugen.

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
I like to take a step back and put myself in the other individuals shoes. Ask yourself "How do you want to be remembered?" Are you polite, respectful and welcoming? Do you listen and provide insight? Are you presentable? Asking myself these questions really made me think from the other's perspective, and assists in analyzing your own leadership skills and abilities. How do you show up!

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I am an avid snowboarder (although I feel myself getting older every time I go out!). Our goal is to live out West someday!  
 

Profiled on June 18

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
After working through some health issues of those closest to me in 2023, things seemed to turn for the better in 2024 and I'm happy to report everyone is back to good health.

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
It's the Honeycrisp Apple for me. I often find myself singing their praises to anyone who will listen. Kudos to the U of M lab for creating the best apple out there.  

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Duluth. Aside from the Aerial Lift Bridge (which is iconic), it's the plethora of outdoor activities available year round. Whether you want to kayak, mountain bike, hike, go for a walk, ski, snow shoe or any other outdoor activity you can think of, there's a place for you to do it and a group of kind humans to do it with.   

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Far and away the leadership advice of "share the credit and take the blame". If there's failures of your team, that falls at the feet of the leader. If there's success among your team, that's due to the hard work and determination of many to make that a realization.

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I enjoy running long distance relays with friends. Hop in a van and run 200-ish miles over the course of 28 hours with 5 buddies and you'll gain a new belief in your physical ability and mental resolve while also making some life long friends along the way.

Profiled on June 13

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I got engaged.

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Memories.

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Maple Plain, MN. Nothing to special but I spent every moment I could on the lakes with friends. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Sometimes being the villain is the fastest way to get a goal accomplished. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I run the largest Rocket League Esports tournament in the Midwest 
 

Profiled on June 12

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
My second son was born!

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
The taconite pellet. The minerals mined are essential for everyday life and it's amazing that the sustainable process starts right here in Minnesota. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Ramsey, MN - I had the best neighborhood to grow up in. Dozens of kids went from yard to yard playing night games, sledding, and exploring. The skating rink my dad built in our backyard was a favorite!

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Everyone has something going on that you know nothing about - be kind and have tact. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I sleep with one eye partially open...maybe spookier than anything.

Profiled on June 10

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
This past year, I had the privilege of being an assistant coach for my daughter's soccer team. It was her first real experience playing on a team, and watching her develop friendships, have fun, and bring so much enthusiasm to the game was incredible. It was a powerful reminder of how much sports can bring to our lives.        

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
This is a tough one, because there a lot of great things made in the land of 10,000 lakes, but if I had narrow it down, I would have to say Caribou Coffee. Nothing better!  

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Brooklyn Park, MN, a city rich in diversity and community spirit. The people here come from all walks of life, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where different cultures blend together. It's a place where neighbors connect, friendships form across backgrounds, and a strong sense of community thrives. While it's close to big cities and shopping, what truly makes Brooklyn Park special is the people who bring it to life. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
I've been fortunate to learn from some great leaders, and the advice that has had the biggest impact on me is this: leadership is a privilege, and to lead effectively, you must first learn to listen. That lesson has stuck with me since I was young kid, instilled in me through my parents, and something that I strive to apply in my everyday life.    

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
For the past four years, I've made it a goal to read at least 20 books a year. It all started as a challenge from my twin sister, and it's become a tradition I continue every year. While I enjoy reading a little bit of everything, I've developed a particular interest in history and science/technology. I have my sister to thank for helping me build this habit. Nothing like a little sibling rivalry to spark a lasting motivation.   
 

Profiled on June 9

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
We finished the basement and deck on our new house. Our children have enjoyed the basement and extra space this winter and we can't wait for spring to enjoy the backyard.              

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
My favorite thing made in Minnesota is Nordic Ware. I love baking and just ordered their Floral Cakelet Pan, which makes cupcakes in the shape of flowers. I can't wait to try it out!

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Fridley, Minnesota. It was a lot of fun growing up so close to Minneapolis. I loved seeing concerts and exploring coffee shops with friends. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden was one of our favorite spots as well.  My parents' home has a creek flowing through the backyard, and we enjoyed many family dinners on the back porch, soaking in the beauty of the outdoors.  

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Managing workload and stress had always been a challenge. A few years ago, I went through the Dale Carnegie leadership program, and after reading "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living," my biggest takeaway was the concept of "Live in Day Tight Compartments." This advice has profoundly impacted my leadership journey. The idea is to focus on tackling the tasks of today. By concentrating on the present, we give our full attention and energy to the tasks at hand, leading to better productivity and less stress. It helps prevent the overwhelming feeling that comes from trying to manage everything at once. This approach had led to a more balanced and mindful way of working, allowing me to handle challenges more effectively and enjoy the process.   

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
After college, I had the opportunity to work in Sydney, Australia. I lived at Bondi Beach and traveled up the east coast, visiting the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef, and all the way up to Cairns. My favorite spot was Byron Bay, a beautiful little beach town north of Sydney.

Profiled on June 6

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I just closed on a 1907 home in Minneapolis near Lake Bde Maka Ska! I am excited to spend the next year restoring it to its original beauty. There is so much amazing wood work throughout. 

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
SNOW! Thinking outside of the box here because I cannot think of just one favorite item, but I love the snow and all the activities that can come with it. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
 I moved around a lot as a kid due to my mom's job, but I mostly grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. I really enjoy the Italian restaurants rooted on "The Hill". I am also a big fan of the Cardinals.

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
My leadership journey has really taken root with the idea of "being the change I want to see in the world". A lot of my leadership traits have been developed by the things I like (and don't like) in the leaders I have learned from.  

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I used to fly hot air balloons when I was 15! 

Profiled on June 5

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I took my kids on a fishing trip to Canada for the first time, and I traveled to the Cook Islands with my husband for my birthday. It was magical. 

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
My favorite things made/started in Minnesota is Caribou Coffee, Anytime Fitness, and Junkyard Brewery. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in central Minnesota in a little town called Deerwood. There are so many beautiful lakes and friendly people.   

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Be resilient. Never be afraid of trying. What's the worst that can happen...you get told no? Try again!   

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I love all sports, traveling, 80s rock music, and the show Friends. Above all of that, I love my 2 sons the most!          
 

Profiled on June 4

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
My wife Macy and I took a trip to New England to soak in the history and enjoy the amazing fall colors!     

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Castle Cream Ale although Red Wing shoes are a close second!    

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Shalimar, a small town on Florida's beautiful Emerald Coast, just a short distance from the more well-known city of Destin. Only minutes from the soft white sand beaches and vibrant emerald waters, this area is a favorite getaway for travelers from all over the country. Known for its great fishing and easygoing, "Beach Bum" lifestyle, it also has a unique sense of patriotism, thanks to being home to two of the largest air force bases in the U.S. The combination of laid-back vibes and strong military pride shaped a vibrant community that I’m lucky to have been a part of while growing up there.    

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Don't get upset. Do the right thing. That's it.     

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I'm a passionate sports enthusiast who started as a player, became a fan, and eventually turned professional. For the past 16 years, I've been lucky to work in Major League Soccer, helping grow "The World's Game!" I'm equally passionate about the outdoors whether it's on the water, hiking, biking, or anything in nature. Smoking meats and BBQ is another love of mine! I live for creating memories with people over great food, cold drinks, sports, and all things outdoors.

Profiled on June 3

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I was recently promoted to Branch Supervisor/Inside Sales Manager within Van Meter.    

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
SPAM. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Pepin, WI. It's special as its the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder, and Lake Pepin is where water skiing was invented. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Always take negative feedback constructively. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
 have a lot of semi famous family members.

Profiled on May 30

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
My wife and I got a Dachshund puppy named Harley and celebrated our 1-year wedding anniversary in Banff, Canada. 

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Definitely Top the Tater. Best dip ever!

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
Waconia, MN. It was a great place to grow up being a small town, lake town, and an outer suburb of the Twin Cities.

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Be willing to do more than is required, always be learning, and treat everyone with respect. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
My first job was at a golf course and helped to develop a passion for the sport that I still have today. 

Profiled on May 28

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
We built a DIY paver patio in our front yard and love sitting on it and hanging out outdoors. 

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Honeycrisp apples, Larissa Loden jewelry, Trail Magic seltzers, Molly Brandt's music and Folly Coffee to name a few. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Marion, Iowa. I loved being involved in extracurriculars to keep busy and build community — my high school was awarded a Grammy for its music programming while I was a student.   

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Everyone has something to teach you. Stay curious and always continue learning.   

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I played piccolo in the ISUCF"V"MB — the Iowa State University Cyclone Football "Varsity" Marching Band.
 

Profiled on May 23

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
Professionally - I was able to add two members to my work team due to unbelievable growth; personally - I now have two children in elementary school and it is amazing to watch them grow and learn. 

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Caribou coffee.

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I'm originally from North-West Arkansas and I miss the beautiful mountain views. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Renters don't know their numbers, owners do.

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I am an avid reader. I read 117 books in 2024.
 

Profiled on May 21

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
My wife and I harvested the first peaches and cherries off of the trees we planted when we moved into our house. A small but delicious harvest, and an important reminder that patience, work and planning bear fruit eventually.  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Wild rice. Most of the world's supply comes from Minnesota and wild rice itself is at the intersection of so much unique cultural, ecological and economic history. I always have it on hand throughout the cold season and it's such a delicious, nutritious food. 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in south Minneapolis. There's lots of great things about it, but as I get older, I am increasingly grateful that I was able to grow up  exploring down by the Mississippi River and Minnehaha Creek, swimming in the lakes, while still being able to walk or bike everywhere. I didn't get a car until I was 28 and about to the country. 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
Everyone on the team deserves, and often wants, to be an expert on something. Identifying team-members' specific talents and interests and empowering them to lead in those areas builds a more engaged team that can handle a wider array of tasks more efficiently.  

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I have a group of close friends from college that I go on canoe trips with most years. We've canoed the St Croix, Root, Namekagon, and Zumbro rivers, along with sections of the Minnesota and Mississippi. Altogether we've done about 1,000 river miles over the years.

Profiled on May 16

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I started at Midco! It was an unexpected opportunity that I am so thankful for.  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
With two little kids at home, I would have to say Jonny Pops are a household favorite! My kids love the delicious flavors and bright colors. While my husband and I appreciate the real ingredients used and no artificial dyes! 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Coon Rapids and was fortunate to have my grandparents very close by in Anoka. With sports, activities and family close by I always felt such a strong sense of community throughout my childhood. I was taught from a young age that civic and community involvement is vital to creating a great place to live. This is something I still value today and seek to get involved where I can. With that said, Anoka Halloween events are still some of my family's favorite memories! Downtown Anoka can feel like it's straight out of a Hallmark movie! 

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
You don't have to change THE world, but you can change YOUR world. I think this is great leadership and life advice. I view it as a reminder that sometimes we can get so ahead of ourselves and focus on things outside of our control. When really, we need to focus on how I can be the best coworker, partner, mom, sister, friend to the people that need me the most. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I was fortunate enough to the opportunity to move to Washington, DC and work for a member of Congress. It was such an amazing adventure, and I got to experience things I never imagined.        

Profiled on May 15

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
After eight years of planning and saving my wife and I built a new house for our family!            

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
Wild rice and walleye.

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Melrose, MN. I was originally born in neighboring Albany MN, and we moved to Melrose in 1992 when I was 8 years old. Both towns had Kraft plants that manufactured cheese produced from local dairy farmers and my mother's family were all dairy farmers. The Kraft plant in Melrose had burned down in 1989 and the ruins stood as a constant reminder of the displaced local workers and reduced prices farmers were getting for milk due to needing to ship it further to market. Eventually Kraft did build a new factory on the edge of town and when that new plant was going to be sold by Kraft several years later a group of farmers (Dairy Farmers of America) and business people (Land O' Lakes) formed a joint venture to buy and operate the facility.

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
I don't know that there is one piece of advice that stands out but a vast number of small incremental lessons.  When I think about how I have learned and applied those lessons it is usually by engaging and learning from others that have more or different experience than myself applying those improvements to new or more repeatable solutions.  So, if I were to create a memory of the most impactful piece of advice it would be, list and ask questions. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I joined the electric utility industry right out of college and in my 17 years I have built nuclear, coal, gas and solar generating plants and most recently I led the development of one of the largest solar generating plants in the US that is being built in Becker to replace retiring coal generating capacity.

Profiled on May 1

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
I got engaged to my best friend and am getting married this July! While wedding planning can be overwhelming for most people, for me it's been a treat to plan and think about all of our favorite people in one place!    

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
My favorite thing made in Minnesota has to be maple syrup. I am a huge fan of it! You will only ever find me using maple syrup on pancakes, waffles, and sometimes even in coffee!     

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up in Lakeville, Minnesota, and it will always have a piece of my heart. Some of my favorite memories growing up were at Lake Marion. Whether it was playing volleyball on the beach, swimming in the lake, or tubing, it holds such precious memories for me. We also have the cutest little ice cream shop in our small downtown called Dairy Delite! As a big fan of soft serve, it's the perfect spot to go in the summer.    

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?  
It's okay to make mistakes because it will ultimately make you a harder worker and a better leader. Without setbacks, it's hard to grow and while making mistakes is never fun, it typically leads to the most growth.    

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I can play the cello! I am a huge fan of music and am constantly listening to music, going to concerts, or making my own music. When I was younger, I was gifted a cello and taught myself how to play it. I don't recommend teaching yourself how to play an instrument like the cello, but it made me appreciate the technical skills and beauty of music!
 

Profiled on April 25

Tell us a piece of good news that happened this past year.
2024 was a big year! I started a new role within my company, began working on my second master's degree in organizational leadership, and my husband and I celebrated 10 years together!  

What is your favorite thing made in Minnesota?    
I absolutely love Aveda products. They have been staples for me since I was a kid! 

Where did you grow up and what was special about your town or home?    
I grew up on a cattle farm in eastern Iowa, and the area I'm from is best known for being the film site of the movie Field of Dreams.  

What piece of advice has most impacted you so far in your leadership journey?    
Not necessarily one piece of advice, but the general principles of both adaptive and servant leadership have been particularly relevant and helpful throughout my leadership journey. Recognizing when someone needs a different approach and being willing and able to adapt to what they need is my favorite thing about people leadership. 

Tell us something super interesting about yourself.
I am not one to sit still for long! I am a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, teaching kickboxing and strength training. I am also a huge animal lover, so I work and volunteer in animal rescue and emergency veterinary medicine in my free time.