2015

North Dakotas top 40

professionals under age 40
FORTY
UNDER 40 CONTENTS
Welcome to the 2015 edition of 40 Under 40. Honorees tell their stories
in their own words, and at the beginning of each profile is a snapshot Publisher
paraphrased from the individuals nomination. Brian Kroshus
We accept nominations for 40 Under 40 throughout the year. If you Editor
know a driven, motivated young professional, nominate him or her at
Erica Nitschke
www.bismarcktribune.com/40under40.
Advertising Manager
Carmen Banta........................... 3 Renae Moch .................................27 Lisa Weisz
Erika Bauer ................................. 5 Shanda Morgan...........................28
Amber Rae Bernhardt ...................6 Brian Moritz ....................................29 Layout/design
Andrea Birst......................................8 Joey Nelson...................................30 Shawn Decker
Benjamin Brandt.............................9 Tim Olson........................................32
Ellyn Brannan ................................10 Jessica Petrick ...............................33 Cover Design
Tomi Cimarosti ..............................12 Shaun Quissell ...............................34
Abby Davis ....................................13 Brad Schaffer .................................35
Bobbie Lee
Alexa Frank....................................14 Beth Schatz Kaylor........................36
Susie Franklin .................................15 Brandon Solberg ..........................37 General questions
RueAnn Gallagher .......................16 Harlan Stewart ...............................38 701-250-8232
Tim Gienger ...................................17 Katie Stewart ..................................39 Fax: 701-223-2255
Jeff Hammes .................................18 Theo Stoller.....................................40 lisa.weisz@bismarcktribune.com
Shae Helling ..................................19 Mike Swenson ...............................41
Russell Kadlec ...............................20 Stacey Thomas .............................42
Drew Knutson ................................21 Dante Tomassoni..........................43
Carly Kolbo....................................22 Erin Wanner....................................44
Abby Krebs ....................................23 Lee Weisbeck ................................45
Garrett Kunz ...................................24 Jessica Weisz .................................46
Doug Larsen ..................................26 Shannon Weisz ..............................47

Page 2 40 Under 40 2015

Carmen Banta
Carmen Banta has made an impact
on the community through her
involvement in the Bismarck-Mandan
Young Professionals Network. As
co-lead of the Entrepreneurship
Team, she leads efforts in maintaining
the partnership program and plans
events at local businesses.
Age: 26
Position and company: Assistant
Marketing Manager at HDR
Family: Husband, Andrew Banta;
son, Porter Banta (16 months); baby
No. 2 on the way! (due in November)
Hobbies: Body Pump classes at the
Y, trips to the park and long stroller
walks with my son, womens Bible
study, reading (when I have time),
bookkeeping for a small business
I own with my husband called
Bluebird Exterior Services
Community involvement: I am
a volunteer instructor for Junior
Achievement, typically teaching
2-4 classes throughout the school
year focused in the elementary
schools. I also coordinate a Financial
Peace University class at my church
(Evangel) and have been a team
captain for the United Way Day
of Caring for the past three years.
I am an active Bismarck-Mandan
Young Professionals member serving
in various capacities, most recently
as the Entrepreneurship Team co-
lead from 2013-2015. I also chair
HDRs Total Service Organization
Committee, which designates the
charitable donations and volunteer
activities for HDRs Bismarck staff.
Career path: I fell in love with the
business world in college through
Collegiate DECA and Students
in Free Enterprise. Through my
internships with the IDEA Center
and Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson, I was
able to hone my skills and zero
in on my passion for marketing
and client development. I joined
KLJs marketing department upon
graduation and became heavily
involved in the Bismarck-Mandan
Young Professionals Network. I
came to work for HDR through a
referral from a friends husband.
HDR created a position for me as
a marketing coordinator/project
coordinator in the Bismarck Office.
After one year with HDR, I was
promoted to the assistant marketing
manager responsible for assisting our
senior engineering staff with overall
client development for the state of
North Dakota. Recent restructuring
has shifted my responsibilities to
focus on transportation client
development for a three state
region of North Dakota, South
Dakota and Wyoming.
Mentors: My dad who taught me
the value of hard work and following
your passion
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I was
born in the suburbs of Denver, CO,
and have one older sister named
Justene. My family moved back
to their North Dakota roots when
I was in grade school. I grew up in
Williston and graduated from Trinity
Christian School. I started working
at age 14 helping my dad on the
farm during harvest, and I also
held a job at the El Rancho Motor Submitted photo
40 Under 40 2015 Page 3
Hotel, which inspired me to pursue
a degree in business. Following
high school, I attended college at
the University of Mary where I triple
majored in business administration,
entrepreneurship and marketing
with a minor in theology. Ive been
married to my husband for just over
three years, and we have one son,
Porter, with another baby on the way
due in November!
What motivates you? Making my
husband and son proud are my
primary motivators. They are the
reason I get out of bed every
morning. My desire is to make a
positive impact through all my
interactions if people can feel
helped, blessed or strengthened
because of me, I have done my task.
Challenges in your career path:
The greatest challenge for me was
establishing boundaries between
work, home and volunteer activities.
Its so easy for our careers to take
over our schedules, so defining
healthy boundaries, while difficult,
are imperative!
Whats the biggest risk youve
ever taken? To be honest, Im not
much of a risk taker. I calculate the
risks for major decisions and plan
accordingly its just my nature! The
biggest risk Ive taken is probably
starting Bluebird Exterior Services
a small side business I own with my
husband. Its been a dedication of
our finances, time and talent, but
we saw the opportunity, calculated
the risk and made a commitment
to take on this venture together.
While there is always the chance a
small business might fail, we took the
plunge and so far it has worked out
wonderfully!
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Im most proud of my
husband I definitely married
up! He is an amazing father and
incredibly hard working. Im blessed
to have him as my partner, and he
continually inspires me to better
myself. Im very proud to be his wife.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Prioritize what
is most important in your life and set
healthy boundaries. Others will have
greater respect for someone who
knows how to carefully consider
a commitment and say no, than
someone who is constantly says
yes and is stretched too thin.
For what are you thankful? Too many
things to list! I am most thankful for
my family, especially my husband.
The love and support he gives me
daily is the fuel to my jet pack!
What do you see yourself doing in
10 years? Continuing my career with
the mission to make my company
and co-workers successful their
success will define the extent of
my achievements. I look forward
to introducing my kids to volunteer
activities so they can discover
their passion and ability to give
back. I am excited to take on
new leadership opportunities as
they arise and foster the spirit of
entrepreneurship in Bismarck-
Mandan!

The greatest challenge for me was establishing boundaries

between work, home and volunteer activities. Its so easy
for our careers to take over our schedules, so defining
healthy boundaries, while difficult, are imperative!

Ideas transform
communities
The greatest accomplishments start with
the smallest details.

Congratulations Carmen Banta!

hdrinc.com

Page 4 40 Under 40 2015

Erika Bauer
Erika Bauer has done something
no one in the 25 year history of
Killdeer Mountain Manufacturing
has done before: brought people
together within the procurement
department distributed over three
different facilities and forged a team
thinking and acting as one and yet
cognizant of each team members
worth and potential.
Age: 29
Position and company: Director
of Supply Chain and Materials
Management at Killdeer Mountain
Manufacturing, Inc.
Family: My family consists of my
husband Travis and I, our 1-year old
son Cameron, and Traviss 11-year-
old daughter Kirstyn.
Hobbies: My hobbies include
reading, being outdoors, spending
time with family, working on our
house and yard and Catholic
Apologetics.
Community involvement: I am a
pianist, choir member and lector at
St. Josephs church in Killdeer.
Career path: I always thought I
would be in engineering, but I
ended up in supply chain, so Im
not making any concrete plans for
my career at this point. I just want to
do something that I can enjoy and
excel at and be able to help other
people learn and improve their
careers and their lives in the process.
Ill evaluate any opportunities as
they arise and see what God has
planned for me.
Mentors: My biggest mentor is
Don Hedger, my grandfather, who
founded KMM with my grandmother,
Patricia. He built a five-person
company into an employer of 350+
pretty great people here in North
Dakota. His combination of high
intelligence, work ethic, marketing
skills and innate business sense is
something of an anomaly and
continues to inspire me. I have also
grown my knowledge, business sense
and leadership skills through Reza
Maleki, my professor at North Dakota
State University, and several very
insightful and experienced KMM
employees.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I was
born and raised in Killdeer, ND,
with one younger brother. I met
my husband in college at NDSU
(Go Bison!) where I received my
bachelors in industrial engineering
and my masters in managerial
logistics. My husband, son, our dog
Maple and I now reside in Killdeer
where I work at KMM, an aerospace
electronics contract manufacturer
in four locations in southwest N.D.
KMM makes circuit cards and cable
harness assemblies for aircraft and
other aerospace applications. I love
my job and the people I work with. I
am fortunate to have several family
members live close by and am able
to spend a lot of time with them.
What motivates you? The ultimate
motivator is being able to empower
other people to learn, improve, get
excited about their potential and
find their own success; thats like
hitting the lottery. I love being a part
of the supply chain team here at
KMM for that very reason. We have
achieved so much together, and it
truly feels like a family.
Challenges in your career path:
The most challenging part of my
career is trying to be a successful
leader. I thought the biggest
challenges would be my education
and technical hurdles, but I quickly
discovered that everything is about
people. It doesnt matter what
you do or what you know; if you
cant learn to inspire and influence
people to improve and cooperate
and challenge the status quo
every single day, the going gets
pretty tough. Working to create an
environment of improvement and
valuable coworker relationships
is an ongoing challenge but very
rewarding.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? The biggest career risk Ive
taken is leading a re-haul of the
supply chain team at KMM. This
included reorganizing personnel
along with completely changing
and enhancing our supply chain
strategies. Fortunately, I belong to a
great team of people who jumped
right on board and took this risk
with me. It ended up being a very
successful and lucrative move for
the company and hopefully means
more job satisfaction for everyone as
well. We continue to
find opportunities and
make improvements
on a regular basis,
so Im very excited
to see where the
team will take us as
we continue into the
future.
Anything of which
youre particularly
proud? Im proud of
my faith, education,
family and the team
at KMM. Im happy
to have a very loving,
dedicated and
hardworking family
both at home and Submitted photo
at work. Im very
proud of what the
team at KMM has done to make For what are you thankful? I have so
our company a better place to much to be thankful for that there is
work. I cant explain the progress no way I could write it all down. I am
these people have made in the thankful for God and my church, my
past four years since Ive started; its family, my marriage, my education,
unbelievable. To be able to be part the opportunities I have been
of that is something I hold in high provided, my coworkers, community
regard. and country, to name a few. So
many people have had an impact
What advice would you offer other on my life, and I am blessed beyond
young professionals? Never lose the anything I will ever deserve.
hunger to learn, and remember that
its always about building people. What do you see yourself doing in 10
If you cant teach others what you years? In 10 years, I see myself being
know and turn your knowledge a part of the continued growth and
into something bigger than yourself, success of KMM and its employees
then you are missing the boat. As by being in whatever position will
professionals, we have to learn to maximize my skills and abilities in the
prioritize, and people are our biggest most value-added way. My husband
asset, most important investment and I would also like to have a few
and highest priority. Put people first, more kids and continue to build our
set realistic and measurable goals family and our lives together. God
for success and take one small step and family are the most important
at a time. These are a few key areas things, so everything I do will be in
to start with. support of that.
Your skills and dedication are inspiring everyone at Kildeer
Mountain Manufacturing. We are proud to be among the benefactors of
your outstanding leadership and dedication, and congratulate on being
named among North Dakotas 40 Top Professionals Under Age 40.
The Kildeer Mountain
Manufacturing Team
in Killdeer, Dickinson,
Hettinger and Regent
40 Under 40 2015 Page 5
Amber Rae
Bernhardt
Amber Rae Bernhardt is instrumental
in developing the theater
community in Bismarck and North
Dakota.
Age: 36
Position and company: Executive
director at Dakota Stage, Ltd.
Family: My perfect life partner,
Tommy C.; my best little boy, Nikki T.
(2); and one on the way!
Hobbies: Working is my hobby.
Theater is what I do, both on and off
the clock.
Community involvement: I serve
on the executive committees
of both the Downtown Business
Association and Bismarck Cancer
Center Foundation boards of
directors. I am a regular volunteer
of several community organizations
with strong support for Community
Action Network and Ruth Meiers
Hospitality House. Through my job,
I am privileged to be involved
in outstanding partnerships that
include work with Dakota OutRight,
1 Million Cups and the North Dakota
Council on the Arts.
Career path: Im still trying to figure
that out! Im so fortunate that my
hobby became my career, and
some days Im still not sure how it
happened. Ive always been the
right-brained, creative type, but
when I was younger, I was shy and
spent most of my time in music and
visual arts rather than on stage. I
ended up in theater school because
I was never a great musician or
Page 6 40 Under 40 2015
sketcher. I knew I should
go to college, but as a
creative person, I couldnt
handle the idea of sitting
in desks for lectures all
day, every day. In theater
school, you get to lie
on the floor and make
sounds or run around the
room in crazy costumes.
Youre rarely in a desk,
and youre always
thinking and doing and
exploring and evolving
and changing as both
an artist and a person. I
discovered pretty quickly
not only did I love that,
but I was also really good
at it. The education and
experience I received
quickly broke me of my
shyness and helped me
become a confident and
charismatic individual.
I lucked into jobs with
Trollwood Performing
Arts School, The Fargo
Entertainment Company
and as a co-founder of
Theatre B right out of
school, and Ive been in
the business ever since.
As a professional actor,
I have had consistent
work in theater, film and
commercials, but my real
bread and butter has
been in administration. As
a strong, highly organized,
focused and driven
leader, Ive had the great
opportunity to produce
my own work for many
years as well as work for Submitted photo
wonderful companies, including
The Lakeshore Theatre, Carol Fox
& Associates in Chicago and now
Dakota Stage upon my return to
Bismarck.
Mentors: My first theater professor,
Dan Rogers, reached into the
dark room and turned on the light,
as I am fond of saying. I would
have never followed this creative
path without his support and
encouragement. Kathy Anderson,
my first boss at Trollwood, taught
me everything I know about arts
administration. Her guidance has
helped me continue to learn and
grow throughout my career. But
my mother gets the most credit of
all. She earned it for pushing me
to pursue my dreams, for making
me believe in and learn to rely
only on myself and for never letting
me know that being a girl from
a poor, single parent household
might hold me back. Her courage,
determination, strength and grace
have been an enduring example
to me that there is no obstacle that
cant be overcome with patience
and perseverance. And above all,
kindness. She is the kindest person I
know. She blows me away.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I
was born and raised in Bismarck.
I graduated from Bismarck High
School and then North Dakota State
University in Fargo, then moved
to Chicago for a time and came
back home a few years ago. I am
an all-the-time theater artist and
now a privileged mom and partner.
I have an amazing family who are
so patient with and understanding
of my constant creative endeavors.
This job/hobby is all consuming, and
Im so lucky to have a supportive
partner who is proud of my work
and makes it possible by being an
awesome stay-at-home dad to our
beautiful, brilliant son who loves that
his mom works at the play show to
make us money.
What motivates you? This amazing
art form motivates me. It is an
incredibly powerful tool. I know
firsthand how it feels to live these life
altering truths as an actor, and more
importantly, I know what its like to
be moved, motivated and forever
transformed by being a spectator to
a stunning, poignant performance
piece. Theater has the potential
to change the world, to challenge
audiences and inspire action like
no other creative medium. If I can
motivate one person to look at the
planet differently, if they can learn
something new about living, if I can
teach them to view people in a
different way, Ive done my job. I
need to do that, for my community,
for the world and most of all, for
my son. I want him to always be
surrounded by creativity to make
him a more well-rounded, open-
minded and complete human
being. Its the biggest gift Ive but your job is 75 percent of your
been given, the largest skill and
knowledge I truly possess, and its
my responsibility to share that with
others, always.
Challenges in your career path:
Every day is a challenge. The arts in
America are extremely undervalued
and underfunded. Its a never-
ending battle to stay in business.
I literally earn my salary and sing
for my supper constantly. And its
worth it. Because theater is crucial.
Storytelling is what preserves our
history and propels our future. Its
been that way for thousands of
years, and its the responsibility of
those of us in the industry to see it
continue at all costs.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? Ha! Choosing the arts as a
career path in the first place!
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? The fact that Ive always
been able to make a living in this
beautiful, crazy business. Thats not
often a thing.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Play to work.
Dont work to play. People think their
job is a means to their material lives,
existence. If you hate it, no amount
of accumulating stuff will make you
happy. If you truly love what you do
for a living, if you play at your job,
youll never work a single day in your
life, and it wont matter what you do
or dont have to fill up your physical
space. Trust me on this.
For what are you thankful? All of
it. Every day. My beautiful family,
my brilliant friends, my job, my tiny
house, my used car. To still have my
mom with me. The fact that I can
appreciate the little things and
know how truly luck I am. The fact
that I have more than I need to be
happy, no real problems and every
day is the best day of my life. I am so
fortunate and so grateful.
What do you see yourself doing in
10 years? I want to be a fry cook on
Venus.

As a strong, highly organized, focused and

driven leader, Ive had the great opportunity
to produce my own work for many years as
well as work for wonderful companies.

DAKOTA STAGE IS PROUD TO PRESENT

Shade Tree Players Conservatory Program
Summer 2015
Performed at Dakota Stage
412 E Main Ave. Bismarck
For Reservations
July 15-19
and Information July 22-26
Visit Dakotastageltd.com
Performed by advanced high school students, intended
for middle-high school/young adult/adult audiences.
40 Under 40 2015 Page 7
Andrea Birst
Glance Spa & Salon has skyrocketed
in business since owner Andrea Birst
took over. She has also led her staff
in community events like haircuts
for Carries Kids and Haircuts for the
Homeless.
Age: 32
Position & Company: Owner of
Glance Spa & Salon and Co-owner
of Mode
Family: I am married to Jordin Birst,
and we have two sweet little boys:
Porter James (3) and Hendrick
Adam (1).
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with
my family, cooking, traveling and
being on the river.
Community involvement: This is
something that means a lot to me.
I love doing what I can to give
back. My staff and I take part in
or donate to many community
organizations, which include Haircuts
for the Homeless, Carries Kids, Brides
Against Breast Cancer, Mandan
Parade, ND Long Term Care
Association, Make a Wish, United
Way, Night for the Stars, St. Alexis,
Christmas on Us and the Abused
Adult Resource Center. Our latest
focus in the community has been for
Heavens Helpers Soup Caf.
Career path: I graduated from RD
Hairstyling College in 2002. Prior to
purchasing Glance, I worked at Spa
DAthena in Bismarck for eight years.
I have currently owned Glance now
for five years and have grown to
a staff of 28! I became co-owner
of Mode, a designer outlet store
in Bismarck, in September of 2012.
My sister, Heather, joined me as co-
owner of Mode this past September.
Mentors: My very first mentor in my
career was my previous employer.
She taught me so much, and if not
for her, I would not be a salon owner
today. Also, throughout the last years,
I have been mentored and guided
by my accountant, bankers and last
but not least, of course, my family!
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I was
born raised in the small town of
Rolette, ND I have one younger sister
and one younger brother. I have
been blessed with wonderful parents
Page 8 40 Under 40 2015
who still live there today, and I thank with attorneys,
them for raising me with strong accountants and
values and morals. I definitely am mentors whom
very driven and have a strong work they like and trust.
ethic. I love motivating and growing A good business
my staff to reach their goals and team to help
dreams. guide you in your
business venture is
What motivates you? First of all, my key! Also, I would
staff motivates me. I am so fortunate say to stay positive
to work with amazing people. I love in any challenging
seeing them grow and change into situation and
great men and women. My husband always remember:
keeps me positive and grounded, Tomorrow is
and I love him for making me laugh another day. We
when I need it. only live one life
so I always believe
Challenges in your career path: I there is no harm in Submitted photo
face difficulties on a daily basis. A trying anything.
big discovery to me was learning me or taught me a life lesson.
how to handle each situation in For what are you thankful? First and
a positive and calm way. One foremost, I am thankful for my faith What do you see yourself doing in
particular challenge for me in the and strength in God. He sends me 10 years? I have goals to continue
beginning of my business career blessing everyday, and I wouldnt to grow both Glance and Mode.
was my age and lack of business be where I am today with out His I would love a second location
knowledge. I feel like I went through guidance. I am forever thankful for someday. I am sure I will be running
a crash course, and yet I am thankful my family. My family is my life. I am with kids activities as well as
for what I have learned in such a so thankful for my team and every managing the salon and staff. I am
short period of time! Lastly a huge person that has come into or out of excited to see what new adventures
challenge for me has been keeping my life and who has strengthened come my way!
a good balance between family
and work. This still continues to be a
struggle for me. Of course, my family
is my priority, my life and my main
focus, but my Glance team is also
my family and I want nothing but the
best for all of them.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? Purchasing Glance has been
the biggest risk and the scariest
thing I have ever done! This risk has
also been one of the best and most
rewarding decisions I made.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? I am proud of how my
businesses have grown in the past
years, and I am proud that I stayed
strong through the bumpy times.
I am proud of our team who has
grown and become like family.
Glance has been voted Best Salon
the last four years, and we are very
proud of that! I am also proud of
my sister who has just joined me
and is doing amazing as a new
businesswoman. And of course, I am
proud of our two sweet little boys
that bring joy to Jordin and me daily!
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? I would first
advise to start new businesses
Benjamin Brandt
Benjamin Brandt has always had the
philosophy of doing what is in the
best interest of his clients, not selling
a product for a commission. He is
well respected with his clients, and
they put their full trust in him and his
ability to manage their life savings.
Age: 33
Position and company: President of
Capital City Wealth Management
Family: My wife, Kristen, and I will
celebrate our 10th anniversary this
summer. We have three children:
Celia (7), Stella (6) and Ben (3). We
also have a birddog named Kenny
Rogers.
Hobbies: Spending time with family;
watching our children in hockey,
gymnastics and other activities;
pheasant hunting; watching UND
hockey; and CrossFit.
Community involvement:
- Deployed to Iraq with North Dakota
National Guard from 2004-2005 as
a member of the 141st Combat
Engineers
- Former Vice-Commander
VFW Post 1326
- Former VFW Color Guard Volunteer
- Volunteer instructor for the
Enrichment Program at Bismarck
State College: Social Security
Claiming Strategies
- Member of Zion Lutheran Church-
Bismarck
Career path: I graduated from the
University of North Dakota majoring
in economics. Prior to starting
Capital City Wealth Management,
I was employed by a Fortune 500
insurance company for nearly nine
years where I learned the financial
planning process and attained
my Certified Financial Planner
designation. After assisting many
clients with the transition from work
to retirement, I became enamored
with the process and decided to
work with those clients exclusively.
This led to the launch of Capital City
Wealth Management our areas
first, fee-only Registered Investment
Advisor serving clients with a
retirement income focus.
Mentors: My two greatest mentors
are my grandfather, Melvin Brandt,
and colleague, Rita Keegan.
My grandfather instilled in me a
lifelong passion for learning about
investments. While not a professional
investor himself, he educated
me on everything from IPOs to
bond ladders. I fondly remember
being barely tall enough to see
over his desk while he showed me
compound interest spreadsheets,
sowing the seed to my future as an
investment advisor.
Rita Keegan is a career-long
colleague who taught me that
Submitted photo
I have two ears and one mouth,
in those proportions, for a reason.
Communication is key. She has
married, I finished my service in the was daunting, you cannot put a
taught me to approach retirement
National Guard and completed my price tag on friendships and team
planning with equal parts
studies while starting a family and members.
compassion and analytics. Her client
my career in finance. We have not
relationships are the foundation to
slowed down since. Anything of which youre particularly
success in helping clients achieve
proud? I am most proud of my
their goals.
What motivates you? My wife once service to my country and my three
asked me why I enjoy retirement children.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew
planning. My answer, Retirement
up in Bismarck and graduated from
planning is an unsolvable equation What advice would you offer other
Shiloh Christian School. Following
with unlimited variables. Whats not young professionals? One of my
high school, I joined the North
to love? favorite quotes that applies to young
Dakota Army National Guard.
entrepreneurs: Success is never
While attending the University of
Challenges in your career path: I owned, it is only rented and the rent
North Dakota in 2003, I deployed
serve a narrow group of clients for is due every day.
to Baqubah, Iraq for 14 months as
a very specific purpose, compared
to a general practitioner financial Also, read Rich Dad Poor Dad by
advisor. It seems that Bismarck has a Robert Kiyosaki and The Millionaire
bank or financial services provider Next Door by Thomas Stanley.
on every corner and differentiating
It seems that yourself can be difficult. By earning For what are you thankful? I am
advanced designations and offering thankful for my faith, my supporting
Bismarck has a a commission-free, unbiased advice family and my career. Through faith
bank or financial model, our clients are seeing the and my family, I am able to follow my
difference and thriving. passion in investment planning and
services provider on helping clients meet their retirement
every corner and Counseling clients on their retirement goals.
income strategy has its own unique
differentiating yourself challenges. We send our clients What do you see yourself doing in 10
can be difficult. over $1 million yearly in retirement years? I would like our company to
distributions, meaning we need to be known regionally as a resource
continue to teach our strategies to to people transitioning from work
new clients each year in order to to retirement. I want to pave the
keep growing our practice. way for digitally delivered, personal
retirement advice. Today, if a client
a combat engineer. Our primary
Whats the biggest risk youve ever desires an in person advisory
mission was route clearance and
taken? When launching Capital relationship, they are limited to the
searching for improvised explosive
City Wealth Management, it was best advice in their neighborhood.
devices. From this experience, I
important to me to keep all current I want to leverage technology to
developed lifelong friendships,
staff members and current office bring the face-to-face appointment
lessons about character and serving
space. In order for this to become into the digital age, providing
others and a new respect for many
a reality, it required a substantial top-notch advice to everyone,
of the things we take for granted
reduction in income. With a wife regardless of geographic location.
in civilian life. After returning from
and three children, this was a little
deployment, my wife and I were
unnerving to say the least. While this
40 Under 40 2015 Page 9
Ellyn
Brannan
Executive Director of IDEA Center
Ellyn Brannan was instrumental in
bringing 1 Million Cups to Bismarck
and has been a driving force in
the Start Bismarck group, which
coordinated Startup Weekend and
TEDx Bismarck.

Age: 30

Position and Company: Executive

Director of IDEA Center

Family: Brent Brannan, husband;

River Brannan, baby boy

Hobbies: My arms are wide open

to thrills. The sky creates a perfect
ceiling to a good hike, mountain
bike ride, rafting trip or yoga series
and in those moments of nature, I
find an intoxicating sense of peace.
On the flip-side, a nickname of mine
is the queen of comfort. Ill take
a good mountain man story, a cup
of coffee and a nap for a perfect
afternoon anytime.

Im in love with our baby and

watching him explore the world.
Today, he tasted a mango for the
first time. Tonight, maybe well have
a dance party, and if Brent has
anything to do with it, well be jiving
to Taylor Swift (He claims River likes
pop. Im not buying it.)
Community Involvement: A main
focus of the IDEA Center is building
community. We work with startups
and new organizations across all
industries, whether they are for profit
or non-profit. By providing them
connections to resources, assisting
with business development and
identifying funding, we in turn impact
the community. We also focus on
connecting entrepreneurs with the
community, which happens in part
through helping host various events.
TEDx is an event dedicated to
curating ideas from the community.
The first event was hosted this past
week at the Heritage Center and
was a hit. 1 Million Cups is a weekly
event introducing entrepreneurs to
the community to empower them
through feedback from the crowd.
Submitted photo
There is a growing effort of volunteers
in Bismarck dedicated to supporting
entrepreneurs and gathering like-
minded people, which is significant
for our community. The Central North
American Trade Corridor, University
of Mary, Center for Technology and
Business are all strategic partners
I enjoy being involved with. I also
support Big Brother Big Sister, Great
American Bike Race and the
Abused Adult Resource Center. Its a
goal of mine to continue to expand
my community involvement.
Career Path: I finished wood doll
furniture when I was 10 to help pay
for gymnastics. During high school I
lead FBLA and the prom committee
and chatted with locals at Krauses
Super Valu before attending
University of Mary and then
graduating from University of North
Dakota. During college was my
acquaintance to entrepreneurship
through an internship at
MDU Resources. I researched
and compared Bismarcks
entrepreneurial support system to
other cities in the US. We identified
there was a need for more focused
resources for entrepreneurs and
shared the results with 30+ business
professionals from the community. I
met the founders of the IDEA Center
(Dewey Tietz and Niles Hushka) that
summer, and four years later, after
realizing insurance wasnt my gig, I
was introduced to the IDEA Center.
I was one of the first two employees.
I learned the commercialization
process alongside entrepreneurs.
Five years later, I became the
executive director. My professional
career is a mere seven years young
in a life-time of learning.
Mentors: My dad, the logical
problem solver. He read a few
books, then built our house. My
mom can naturally break a project
down into a systematic process
and effectively understand the
integral role of each person on
the team. Floyd Wilson (retired
VP of MDU Resources) nurtured
confidence and resourcefulness.

Page 10 40 Under 40 2015

He pushed me into the deep end
to prove to myself that I could swim.
Dewey Tietz (founder of the IDEA
Center) encouraged me to be
the most curious person you know.
He gave out clues, never answers.
Julie Kuennen (former executive
director of the IDEA Center) taught
me to stay at the plate until my
perspective was heard. She drew a
circle of my comfort zone, placed a
dot on the outside and told me to
expand the circle.
Brent Brannan (my confidant, my
intermural sports superstar). Hes an
entrepreneur, a creative problem
solver. Hes learning to play the
guitar while River bangs on pots and
pans. He sees more in me than I do
in myself.
Briefly, tell us about yourself:
A few key points:
- Im curious. When I meet new
people and hear what excites
them, Im energized. If it creates a
- I grew up in the country, so quiet
time and space is my safe place. In
fact after this paragraph, maybe Ill
go there for a few minutes, if only in
my mind.
- I believe being wholehearted
requires vulnerability, which requires
constant effort. Id never lead an
organization before the IDEA Center.
And that level of vulnerability is what
pushes me to ask the right questions
and at times the wrong ones as well,
but I accept the learning curve.
What motivates you? Professionally,
its navigating the way to a light
bulb moment with entrepreneurs:
facilitating a strategy session,
identifying when its time to hire
the first employee, setting the price
and make the first sale, determining
distribution methods. The uniqueness
of each entrepreneur is constantly
motivating. In my personal life, its
along this same vein. Motivation
comes from pushing my potential
in my first trimester of pregnancy.
The board and key stakeholders
helped us form a new strategic
direction. From there, we rounded
out a new team just in time for me
to take maternity leave. We not only
survived, we thrived to form a strong
team.
- Be a part of the problem solving
Whats the biggest risk youve
ever taken? I can do back flips. I
do adventure races. Ive jumped
out of a plane. Thats easy. The
interesting thing about risk is you
earn confidence. Being fairly young
in a leadership position is a risk.
Finding the right balance between
my professional life and personal life,
thats my biggest challenge.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Those glimpses when a
group of people bring out the best
in each other is energizing. I enjoy
connecting people during the
process, and if I help lead that effort,
Im proud. Being a part of the growth
business will come more natural.
- Question to understand. We dont
have decades of decision-making
as leaders yet. Thats what mentors
and boards are there for. Its a
lifelong learning curve.
not just the problem reporting. Youll
climb the ladder quicker.
- 70/30 rule. We should enjoy 70
percent of your work. Theres
always the not so fun stuff. Mine is
managing a budget and reporting.
Tap into your strengths. If the flow
moments are few and far between,
its OK. Climb another tree.
For what are you thankful? My
comical and handsome husband.
Our dazzling baby. My loving and
supportive family. My inspiring
friends. My health. My freedom. My
faith. Working with a creative and
intelligent team. And the never-

Im curious. When I meet new people and hear what

excites them, Im energized. If it creates a spark, I
dive deeper. Its what I enjoy about the IDEA Center.
I thrive on entrepreneurs passion for their ideas
and seeing them taste mango for the first time.

spark, I dive deeper. Its what I enjoy
about the IDEA Center. I thrive on
entrepreneurs passion for their ideas
and seeing them taste mango
for the first time.
- My coworkers arent surprised at
a 2 a.m. email. Ill go 110 mph with
projects at work, crash by hiding
my cell phone under a pillow for
a day (sorry Cassity), only later to
find Brent and I vetting a business
idea his brother has over coffee.
Collective brainstorming is like a
good jam session.
and those close to me. I drug my
sister kicking and screaming through
a marathon relay. She forgave me
after the race.
Challenges in your career path: My
early jobs helped me understand
how Im motivated. I recognized the
importance of structure, yet also my
need for autonomy. I helped work
through the startup phase of the
IDEA Center. Its exciting to connect
the dots, see the growth and
evolution. My goal is to stay creative,
even while implementing structure.
My executive director role began
of the IDEA Center and when an
entrepreneur launches their website,
hires their first employee, or pitches
to investors, Im proud of them. With
every milestone our baby reaches
comes immense pride. He just
learned to pull himself up.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? These are daily
lessons for myself:
- Place a dot outside your comfort
zone circle. Then expand the circle.
- Be curious and genuine. Youll be
smarter with better relationships, and
ending list of blessings. There is
positive energy in this world that is
meant to be shared. Thats a really
good thing.
What do you see yourself doing in
10 years? I like that Im not sure. The
joy is in the journey. In 10 years Id
like to: broaden my perspective in
life, embrace every hiccup laughing
moment, refresh my piano playing
and have a masters degree. Ill also
have perfected a killer homemade
pasta recipe, hiked in Ireland with
my family and still be doing back
flips on the tramp.

40 Under 40 2015 Page 11

Tomi Cimarosti
Tomi Cimarosti has found a variety
of new ways to serve at-risk youth
in Bismarck-Mandan. She works
with businesses to get youth more
active and involved in serving the
community.
Age: 31
Position and company: Director of
Residential Services at Charles Hall
Youth Services
Family: My amazing husband
Nicholas (PATH Social Worker), our
rambunctious sweetheart Vincenzo
and our crazy family Vizsla named
Ruse
Hobbies: I love to write, read about
new and innovative ways to work
with people, read about random
mom-blogs, craft, knit, I play volleyball,
softball, run, bike and work out. In
my free time, I run my photography
business as well, Photography by Tomi.
Community involvement: I am a
member of the Young Professionals
Network in Bismarck, ND. I have
donated numerous photography
sessions for local charities, benefits
and nonprofit organizations in town as
well as throughout the state. I am an
enrolled Standing Rock Tribal member
and am happy to help wherever I
can in helping our youth on and off
of the reservation. I was adopted into
the Flint Knife Clan from the Three
Affiliated Tribes as a youth and take
great pride in my strong cultural
roots and belief systems. I am a part
of numerous professional coalitions,
teams and chapters to help youth in
my profession.
Career path: I attended Bismarck
State College and completed my
associates in arts. I began my career
in youth work beginning in 2005 while
completing my degree. I began
at Charles Hall Youth Services as a
resident assistant turned youth coach.
I then moved on to Minot State
University through the BSC campus
to complete my studies and earned
my bachelors degree in criminal
justice with a minor in psychology. I
was promoted to house manager
of the all-girls home soon after and
then transitioned to the co-ed (now
all-boys home), up until last July when
I officially became the director of
residential services for our agency.
Mentors: I believe throughout my life,
Page 12 40 Under 40 2015
I have been blessed to have had so
many people who were influential
to my professional and personal
development. My husband Nicholas
is my number one supporter and
mentor. My parents, in-laws, along
with my siblings have all been great
supporters of my career. My current
supervisors, Gayle Klopp and Gayla
Sherman; my previous superiors, Dan
Foster and Tim Green; co-manager
Nick Roeder; and many staff
members and teammates, along with
various partners and collaborators
who support our efforts.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: My
Dakota name is Zuya Waste Win,
which means Good Warpath Woman
(leader). I am a mom, wife, daughter,
friend and helper. Im a caretaker
by nature. My cultural background
stresses the importance of taking
care of our youth. I am a leader for
our organization and have served in
many roles of leadership throughout
my life. I strive to be helpful in a way
that allows our wakanyeja (sacred
ones/children), to flourish and lead
our world in the right direction for
generations to come.
What motivates you? What motivates
me is when I hear that I have helped
others do good work for amazing kids,
have lead in a way that is fair and
honest and that in itself is rewarding
enough.
Challenges in your career path: When
first beginning this line of work, I was
a college kid with no experience in
working with at-risk youth, and it was
always a struggle to get kids to see
me as their supportive adult in their
life, versus a kid like them or a buddy.
Currently I would have to say that the
challenges that face organizations
like ours is staffing. In the ever growing
and changing economy such as
what we now have in our state it is a
struggle overall. People want to help
kids, I have no doubt about that, so
we are consistently looking at ways
to find the best people to join our
agency and our mission.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? The biggest risk taken, career-
wise, was taking on the role of director
of residential services. I had huge
shoes to fill, coming from, again, great
previous supervisors. I have always
looked up to these individuals, and I
strive to carry on the message that all
people have innate good in them. It is
simply up to us
to dig around
the mud to find
it and allow it to
flourish.
Anything of
which youre
particularly
proud? I am
especially
grateful for
the chance to
get to make a
difference in the
human service
field. I am proud
of the teams I
have been a
part of while
on this path. I
am proud to
be able to help
bridge gaps of
understanding
between the
communities
and ourselves
to show that
Submitted photo
we are here,
we care and What do you see yourself doing in 10
we will do all we can to help, given years? I see myself being a 41-year-
the time and ability that we have to old helper who will continue to
do so. help people in all aspects that I am
able. I will continue to work forward
What advice would you offer other in continuing my education and
young professionals? I dont want to building more ways to accomplish
sound clich, but it really does come my mission in life, which is to be a
down to staying true to who you are helpful asset to the future of tomorrow.
and what your goals and morals I would also like to have written and
are in life: ethically, emotionally and published a book or perhaps made a
spiritually. film about youth work by that time in
hopes that it would be a helpful tool
For what are you thankful? for other helpers of the field in which
Professionally, I am thankful for the we serve. We are all here to learn. We
teams I have been lucky to have are ever-changing entities, and that
been a part of. Personally, I am is a beautiful thing. Lastly, with our son
thankful for my health, my family and entering his pre-teen years, I am sure
the love we are all blessed with. that will likely keep me busy as ever.
Congratulations
Tomi Cimarosti
Thank you for your hard work,
leadership and dedication.
We are so proud of your selection
to the Bismarck Tribunes Forty
Under 40 class of 2015.
PO Box 1995 Bismarck, ND 58502-1995
701.255.2773
Abby Davis
Abby Davis is a young Native
American woman, is strong willed,
and when she wants something, she
doesnt let anything stand in her
way.
Age: 35
Position and company: Medical
doctor, resident postgraduate year
two with UND Center for Family
Medicine, Bismarck
Family: Parents, Alfred and Beverly
Davis, and brother, Edward Dionne
Hobbies: Volleyball, hiking, movies,
exploring historical sites and
museums
Community involvement: Residency
program allows me to participate
in community health care and
education through UND Center of
Family Medicine Clinic, Custer Family
Planning, Ruth Meyers, Bismarck
State College and Standing Rock
Indian Health Service. Also, I was
involved in a youth mentoring group
at United Tribes Theodore Jamerson
Elementary School as well as an
active member of Association of
American Indian Physicians and
American Board of Family Medicine.
Career path: After completion of
residency, will go on to work for
Indian Health Service as a Family
Practice Doctor focusing in areas
of geriatrics, endocrinology and
rheumatology.
Mentors: Parents, Alfred and Beverly
Davis; Aunt, Colleen Clauthier;
Uncles, Ron Laverdure and Cornelius
Grant; Physicians, Dr. Nicholas
Neumann and Dr. John Hagan
Briefly, tell us about yourself: Im an
enrolled member of Turtle Mountain
Band of Chippewa. Born and
If it feels right, then go with it and have the
courage to take the first step. One of my
favorite quotes encompasses this concept:
Success is never final and failure never fatal.
Its courage that counts John Wooden
raised in Bismarck, ND. I graduated
from Fargo South High School
and received my undergraduate
degree, bachelor of science in
biology, from University of Alaska
Anchorage. Then went on to earn
my doctor of medicine degree from
University of North Dakota School
of Medicine and Health Sciences in
Grand Forks, N.D. Currently, a Family
Practice medical doctor resident at
UND CFM residency program with
privileges working with St. Alexius,
Sanford Health, Standing Rock IHS
and surrounding communities.
What motivates you? Having the
opportunity to participate and
provide health care to a wide
variety of patients
Challenges in your career path:
Finding the right balance between
professional and personal life
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? Skydiving
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Successful completion of
medical school and excelling in my
professional career
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? If it feels
right, then go with it and have the
courage to take the first step. One of
my favorite quotes encompasses this
concept: Success is never final and
failure never fatal. Its courage that
counts John Wooden
For what are you thankful? My family
and their health
What do you see yourself doing
in 10 years? Working in North
Dakota, preferably in a rural area or
reservation, providing health care to
underserved populations
Submitted photo
40 Under 40 2015 Page 13
Alexa Frank
Not only does Alexa Frank run two
successful businesses, her and
her husband volunteer their time
working with youth through the
Bismarck Young Life Organization.
She shares her talent and drive
with young girls in hopes of inspiring
dreams of their own.
Age: 24
Position and company: Owner of
Fabyoulous Salonspa and Silo Salon
Family: I have been married to my
husband, Matt Frank, for two years
now. We dont have any children yet,
but we do have two cats that Im
obsessed with, Oatmeal and Lewis.
Hobbies: We dont get a lot of free
time between the two businesses,
so it is really cherished when we do.
I love just hanging out at home with
my husband, being with my family,
reading, snowboarding, going to
the lake and Ive recently taken up
gardening.
Community involvement: The reason
we are in this industry is to give
back to others and help them feel
good about themselves. We strive
to be day-makers every day. We
love helping our guests as much as
possible, whether that be donating
to a silent auction they are hosting
or doing free haircuts for people in
need. We recently volunteered to do
hair and make-up for the Dreams in
Motion fashion show at the Great
American Bike Race. We always
have a blast helping out at charity
events. There are many ways that
individuals working in this industry
can get involved and support their
community.
Career path: I grew up in Sterling,
ND, but went to school in Bismarck
through high school. When I was in
high school, I randomly got offered
a receptionist position at a salon
in town. That was when I fell in
love with the beauty industry and
decided thats what I wanted to
do. I went to cosmetology school at
the Aveda Institute in Minneapolis
in 2009. I always knew I wanted
to own a business and was given
that opportunity when the owner
of the Aveda salon I was working
at decided to sell the business.
Last October, we also had the
Page 14 40 Under 40 2015
opportunity to expand
and purchase City
Looks in Kirkwood
Mall. We changed
the name to Silo and
have big plans for it,
so we are excited to
see how it unfolds! I still
spend quite a bit of
time working as a stylist,
and I think I always will.
Its my creative outlet,
and I cant imagine not
doing it hair.
Mentors: My parents are
my biggest role models
and mentors. My dad is
an entrepreneur himself
(He runs his own farm
in Sterling). My mom
works in the Bismarck
school district and is
a great leader in our
community. My dad has
taught me that hard
work pays off, and my
mom has given me
leadership skills. My
husband is also a huge
mentor to me. He has
supported me through
the highs and lows and Submitted photo
pushes me to be a
better me. challenge we sometimes have is and beyond to create a great guest
finding employees, which many experience (i.e. complimentary
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew businesses encounter. We have high hand massages with any color
up on a farm in Sterling, ND, with standards for our employees, so it service), and that is what Im most
two amazing siblings who are can be tough to find stylists. proud of. I love seeing our guests
both doctors. I graduated from days made better by our staff.
Bismarck High School in 2009 and Whats the biggest risk youve ever
then went on to the Aveda Institute taken? The biggest risk Ive ever What advice would you offer other
of Minneapolis. While working as a taken was purchasing the salons. I young professionals? Dont go into
stylist at Fabyoulous, I completed dont think any amount of business business for the money. If you have
an associates degree in business education can prepare you for passion for what you do and you
management from Bismarck State what running a business is actually work hard, the money will follow. Find
College. like in real life. It was pretty nerve- what you love to do and make it
wracking to become the owner of your career.
What motivates you? My family two businesses in such a short time
and staff motivate me. It makes period. However, to do so was a For what are you thankful? I am so
me so happy to see my staff grow, blessing. thankful for my husband and family.
learn new things and have new I would never be where I am today
opportunities. I have such talented Anything of which youre particularly without their help, love and support.
and wonderful individuals working at proud? I am so proud of how They are such a blessing.
both salons, and I wouldnt be able our salons are able to stand out
to do this without them. My family from others in such a saturated What do you see yourself doing in 10
keeps me going every day. market. We have an absolutely years? I will still be doing what I love
wonderful staff, and they are very in 10 years running the businesses
Challenges in your career path: I knowledgeable about the beauty/ and working behind the chair as a
think the toughest part of owning spa industry and products. Aveda stylist. Because these opportunities
salons is setting your business is a top-of-the line natural product seem to just pop out of nowhere, I
apart from other salons. There are company, and I cant imagine not really have no idea what else might
numerous stylists in Bismarck, so we having it our salons. I am very proud be in store for me, but Im excited to
had to find our niche. The other of the fact that our staff goes above find out!
Susie Franklin
Susie Franklin is customer-first driven
and is always looking to take on new
challenges.
Age: 39
Position and Company: Mortgage
Loan Servicer and Loan Underwriter
for Capital Credit Union
Family: I have been married to my
husband Travis for 17 years. We have
two kids, Zachary (16) and Alyssa
(14).
Hobbies: I enjoy running, biking,
baking, cleaning, hunting and being
outside in the summer.
Community Involvement: Currently,
I am a member of the board of
directors for the Bismarck-Mandan
Home Builders Association. In
addition to being a board member,
I volunteer on the HBAs Events
Committee and the Home Show
Committee. For the past 14 years, I
have also participated in Relay for
Life, Big Brother Big Sister Bowling and
Rebuilding Together. I have served
as a Girl Scout co-leader and a
volunteer soccer coach. I served
on Capital Credit Unions public
relations team, chaired Capital
Credit Unions United Way campaign
and was Capital Credit Unions
chairwoman for its professional
development program.
Career Path: I have been with
Capital Credit Union for more than
16 years. My career started here
in 1998 as a part-time teller. I am
now a mortgage loan servicer and
underwriter. Capital Credit Union
offers educational tools to help
employees learn and grow within
their job profession, and throughout
the years, I have had the opportunity
to become skilled at various job
positions within the organization. I
have a strong passion for my work
and for learning new things that
have helped advance me to where
I am today. I enjoy the challenge of
learning new things and expanding
my knowledge.
Mentors: My friends, family and
co-workers
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew
up in the small town of Butte, N.D.,
with an older sister and younger
brother. I was very active in sports.
Education was very important to me
at a young age. It was important
to me to get good grades. I
moved to Minot right out of high
school and attended Minot State
University. I then moved to Bismarck
in 1995, where I graduated from
Interstate Business College. In 2010,
I decided that I wanted to expand
my knowledge and educational
background, so I went back to
college online through Dickinson
State University. I graduated in May
2012 with an office administration
degree with a concentration in
management.
I married my husband in 1998, and
we have two great children, Zachary
and Alyssa. I am a hard-working, fun
and energetic person who likes to
learn new things and volunteer and
be involved. Volunteering has helped
me successfully network and build
long-standing relationships with many
people. It is heart warming helping
others out and being involved.
What motivates you? My profession
and children motivate me.
My profession motivates
me because I have a huge
passion for my work. I enjoy
what I do, and each day
brings different challenges
and experiences. Home
ownership is one of peoples
biggest dreams and
investments. There is that
sense of satisfaction knowing
I help make their dream
come true.
My children motivate me Submitted photo
because I want to be a
good role model for them.
I want to show them that and come out on the other side that
hard work can pay off and to always truly shows how strong of a person
chase your dreams. Plus, my kids are you are. I am proud of the life lessons
active in many things and keep me I have taught my kids along the way.
hopping. I love it! The strong drive I have to take on
challenges, expand my knowledge
Challenges in your career path: and volunteer has showed my kids
Keeping up with the ever changing to always work hard to get to where
rules and regulations in the you want to be. I am proud of the
mortgage industry hard work and dedication I have put
into my career to get to where I am
Whats the biggest risk youve ever at today.
taken? I took a risk applying to
work in our mortgage department What advice would you offer other
because I had no experience. I young professionals? I would tell
worked so hard reading on the other young professionals to never
Internet and doing research to give up on your dreams. If you have
prepare myself. This was a dream a passion for something, work hard to
of mine, and I knew I would have make your dream come true. Dont
to work hard to get there with no be afraid to try new things.
experience.
For what are you thankful? I am
Anything of which youre particularly thankful for my family and friends
proud? I am proud of where I am that have been by side and my faith.
today in my career and life. Life has
brought me many ups and downs What do you see yourself doing in
along the way, but I am proud of the 10 years? I see myself working in
person I have become through it all. I Capital Credit Unions mortgage
feel there are always challenges, big department with a goal of
or small, but it is how you rise above underwriting mortgage loans full
time.

Congratulations Susie
on being selected for
The Bismarck Tribunes 2015 Top 40 Under 40!
Thank you for providing 16 years of superior service to
Capital Credit Union members, and our community. www.capcu.org

40 Under 40 2015 Page 15

RueAnn
Gallagher
RueAnn Gallagher was diagnosed
with breast cancer in January
2012. Cancer is no stranger to her,
with a sister, mother, four cousins,
three aunts and a grandmother
diagnosed ahead of her. She knew
she wanted to find a way to give
back; in this desire, Pink It Forward
was born.
Age: 37
Position and company: Training/
Safety Specialist at Montana-Dakota
Utilities
Family: Husband Dennis, daughters
Adyson (8) and Rees (5)
Hobbies: Spending time with my
family at our cabin, keep busy with
our girls and their love of dance
Community involvement: Along with
my sister and two cousins, formed
the non-profit Pink It Forward. Three
of the four founding members are
cancer survivors. We formed our
non-profit with more of a personal
level in mind. We have several
different packages that we send
out to those going through surgeries
and treatments due to a cancer
diagnosis. The packages contain
items we felt helped us through our
diagnosis and treatment.
Career path: I thoroughly enjoy my
position with MDU and hope to
move forward in the Training/Safety
department
Family first, always. Do
what you enjoy and it will
never feel like work as
clich as that sounds.
Page 16 40 Under 40 2015
Mentors: First and foremost, my
mom and dad, Arleen and Del
Svalen. My mentor within MDU
is Doug Dixon.
Briefly, tell us about yourself:
I was raised in Braddock,
ND, graduated from Linton
High School. I received
my cosmetology license
after Josefs School of Hair
Design and worked in the
cosmetology industry for five
years. After that, I spent 12
years (last two years as station
manager) working for Air
Wisconsin Airlines Corporation
DBA United Express at the
Bismarck Airport. I have been
at MDU since September of
2012.
What motivates you? Building
and watching the growth of
the non-profit I helped to start.
Being a good role model for
my girls
Submitted photo
Challenges in your career
path: I have been lucky proud? The growth of Pink It Forward; daughters and my wonderful,
enough to have managers and what started out as giving back has supportive husband. My family and
supervisors that have given their grown bigger than we could have friends who have always been so
time to help me grow and succeed. imagined. supportive.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever What advice would you offer other What do you see yourself doing in 10
taken? Being a full-time employee, young professionals? Family first, years? Thats hard to answer; I love
mother and wife and then taking a always. Do what you enjoy and it will my job but hope that Pink It Forward
big step to form a non-profit, which never feel like work as clich as continues on its current growth path.
requires a lot of time and effort that sounds. It would be wonderful to see it turn
into something I could do full time
Anything of which youre particularly For what are you thankful? I while being actively involved in my
am thankful for my two healthy daughters lives.
Who we are! How you can help!
Pink It Forward is 501(c)3 non-profit
organization made up of 4 cousins, 3 of
which have been diagnosed and have
Do you know someone going through
cancer treatment or surgery?
Contact us at: pinkitforward@yahoo.com.
beaten cancer. We each have a passion
for raising awareness and are dedicated to
We would love to Pink It Forward!
helping those in need.
Pink It Forwards mission is to provide hope
and empowerment by enriching the lives of
those affected by breast cancer.
Join us!
Donations accepted at: Pink It Forward
~RueAnn, Tammy, Kayla, & Deanne PO Box 3221, Bismarck, ND 58502
Tim Gienger
As a supervisor and a therapist
with West Central Human Service
Center in Bismarck, Tim Gienger
provides services to some of the
most vulnerable people in the eight-
county region.
Age: 35
Position and Company: Director of
Outpatient Therapy at West Central
Human Service Center
Family: Wife, Mandy; children, Hayley
(10) and Brady (6)
Hobbies: Golf, hunting, fishing,
running, gardening
Community Involvement: Adjunct
instructor for Minot State University
in the social work program at
Bismarck State College; co-
facilitator of the domestic violence
treatment program at Lutheran
Social Services; Chairperson for
PULSE (People United for Living in
Safe Environments), a community
task force addressing domestic and
sexual assaults; president of the
Riverwood Mens Golf Association;
conference committee member
and past president of the North
Dakota Family Based Services
Association; member of the Burleigh
County Child Protection Team;
RSVP+ volunteer; and Bismarck youth
baseball coach
Career Path: I graduated with my
bachelors in social work in 2002
and masters in social work in 2004,
both from the University of North
Dakota. After graduation, I started
working as a therapist at Dakota
Boys and Girls Ranch in Bismarck. In
2006, I began transitioning to Dakota
Family Services, an outpatient clinic
attached to DBGR. After that clinic
closed in 2009, I began working at
West Central Human Service Center
in the Outpatient Therapy Unit. I was
promoted to Director of the Unit in
2013.
Mentors: My mom, Mary, taught
me the importance of helping
others. My dad, Jim, taught me
the importance of hard work.
Karen Mueller taught me how to
treat people in this profession and
the importance of self-care. Dr.
Wayne Martinsen taught me about
assertiveness
and confident
communication.
Mary Lee Steele
taught me about
compassion and
humility. Sandy
Thompson has
been instrumental
in helping me see
the big picture.
Briefly, tell us about
yourself: I grew up
in Bismarck where
my parents and
sister continue to
live. For as long as
I can remember, I
knew I wanted to
be in the helping
profession. I often
tell people that this
profession chose
me rather than me
choosing it.
What motivates
you? Personally,
my wife and my
children motivate
me to be a
better husband
and father than
I was yesterday.
Professionally,
its seeing
improvement in
peoples lives.
Fostering hope in
people motivates
me each day.
Challenges in your
career path: Being Submitted photo
briefly unemployed
in 2009 changed
my outlook on as the youngest in the state of North For what are you thankful? I am
life and work. Also, working with Dakota at the time. Also, serving as thankful for my supportive wife
clients on a daily basis who are the president of the North Dakota and family. They make everything
experiencing difficulties in their lives Family Based Services Association, worthwhile. I am also thankful for the
is an ongoing challenge. my current position at West Central, people I get the privilege of working
and getting to be a husband and with every day. Their skill level makes
Whats the biggest risk youve ever dad every day. me feel good about the care we
taken? My passion and commitment are providing.
for the work I do has probably What advice would you offer
impaired my perception of risk. I am other young professionals? I cant What do you see yourself doing in
sure I will look back at some point emphasize this enough: Do the little 10 years? Hopefully, the same thing
and realize lots of risks I have taken. things. Call people back, return that I am doing now. There are many
e-mails, be on time, be humble changes and challenges coming to
Anything of which youre particularly and err on the side of human behavioral health that makes this an
proud? Achieving my Independent connections. Be gracious, optimistic exciting time to be in my profession.
Clinical Social Work License in 2005 and upbeat. It beats the alternative.
40 Under 40 2015 Page 17
Jeff Hammes
Jeff Hammes was instrumental in the
purchase of Stanton High School
and its renovation into the Coal
Country Inn, providing needed
lodging in the power plants area.
Age: 36
Position and company: President/
CEO of Industrial Contractors, Inc.
Family: Wife, Stacy, and daughter,
Jersey (6)
Hobbies: First and foremost, I love
spending time with my family. I also
enjoy traveling, hunting, fishing,
golfing, exercise, sports and boating.
Community involvement: Most of my
community involvement is centered
around our industry. I serve on the
Lignite Energy Council Board of
Directors, am the Chairman of the
Board of Trustees for the Boilermaker
Local 647 Development and
Training Fund, a board member for
the Great Lakes Area Boilermaker
Apprenticeship Program and the
IBEW Local 714 Joint Electrical
Apprenticeship and Training
Committee.
Career path: After finishing my
bachelors and masters degrees in
mechanical engineering, I worked
for a consulting firm primarily in
petrochemical and power. After
a couple years, I moved into a
project management role with
Great River Energy and had the
fortunate opportunity to lead their
DryFining project from engineering
through procurement, construction
and startup. The project was the first
full scale coal drying and refining
project in the world and provided
for an unbelievable experience from
construction challenges to startup
troubleshooting. The technology
has received nine patents and is
being marketed worldwide. While
in the project management role, I
passed the Professional Engineers
exam and still hold licensure. From
there, I was recruited by ICI as a vice
president with the intent to transition
to president/CEO through their
succession planning.
Mentors: I am blessed to have
parents who instilled in me values
of hard work, honesty and integrity.
Professionally, Ive been fortunate to
Page 18 40 Under 40 2015
pick up something from everyone
Ive worked with, whether it be
engineering- or leadership-based
experiences. My most influential
mentor by far was Mark Ness during
an internship with Great River Energy.
Prior to working with him, I was a
do enough to get by student,
but he changed the way I thought
about and approached problems.
He completely changed my drive
for learning and development. My
collegiate grades skyrocketed; I took
as many courses as I could fit into my
schedule and graduated with over
200 credits almost solely based on
the inspiration Mark provided.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I was
raised in Underwood, ND, and have
one younger brother. We spent most
of our summers on Lake Sakakawea
camping and boating, falls hunting
and winters snowmobiling and
downhill skiing. I played football and
basketball in high school and was
recruited to the University of North
Dakota as a quarterback, which was
short-lived because I didnt give it
the time and effort it requires.
What motivates you? I thoroughly
enjoy solving challenging problems,
and fortunately, the industry I serve
provides ample opportunity to
satisfy this urge. I am also driven by a
thirst for knowledge and take every
opportunity available to further my
education.
Challenges in your career path:
The greatest challenge is time and
balancing between family and a
profession I thoroughly enjoy.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? The biggest risks Ive taken
have been career moves. They
werent risky based on where I was
going or what I was doing, but any
career transition seems to introduce
some level of uncertainty.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Im very proud of my
daughter. Shes a tremendously
smart, caring and artistic individual
at her young age with piles of
personality. Shes an absolute blast.
What advice would you offer
other young professionals? Act
with humility and ask questions.
The experience retiring from the
US workforce over
the next 5-10 years
is staggering. In my
experience, most
people are very
open to sharing
their professional
knowledge if they are
asked to do so and
you receive their input
intently.
For what are you
thankful? Im thankful
to have a wife willing
to support me through
my career. Leading
large projects and
now an organization
requires a significant
commitment of hours
at times, and that shifts
Submitted photo
a lot of burden her
direction.
teenage years. I plan to own rental
property by then as well as travel
What do you see yourself doing in
more. Ideally, I hope to still be part
10 years? Supporting my daughter
of this great organization, witnessing
academically and in whatever
our teams growth as leaders in the
extracurricular activities she finds
market of industrial construction.
herself interested in through her
Jeff Hammes
On your selection to the
Bismarck Tribunes
Forty Under 40 class of 2015.
Thank you for your
professionalism, leadership
and commitment to our
community. We are very
proud of you.
Serving the Power and Process
Industry in North Dakota
Industrial Contractors, Inc.
701 Channel Drive Bismarck, ND
Phone: (701) 258-9908
www.apigroupinc.com/construction/ici
Shae Helling
Since his hire in 2012, Shae Helling
has refined Bismarck Aero Centers
marketing approach and brought
the brand into the 21st century.
Age: 25
Position and company: Marketing
Specialist for Bismarck Aero Center
Family: Parents, Peter and Jude
Helling; sisters, Cassandra Helling and
Christine Helling; nephew, Dylan
Hobbies: Outside of working in the
office and in the community, I love to
play or watch all kinds of sports from
basketball and baseball to NASCAR
and Frisbee golf. I also enjoy going
back to my hometown of Alexander,
ND, and helping out on the family
farm during the summer months.
Community involvement: Relay for
Life team captain, three years
- Brought the Survivor Dinner to BAC,
two years
- Junior Achievement volunteer
Mandan EAA #1008 Chapter
member
- Bismarck-Mandan Young
Professionals Network
Aviation Career Day Planner
(an aviation education day for
community fifth graders)
Career path:
- High school at Alexander Public
School, May 2008
- Lehigh University, summer of 2011
Graduate of Global Village for
Future Leaders of Business and
Industry (intensive summer internship
program)
- University of Mary, bachelors
degree in marketing, business
administration with minor in public
relations
- Awarded the 2012 Marv Borgelt
Outstanding Senior in the UMary
School of Business
- University of Mary, masters in
project management, May 2013
- During my college years, I interned
at the N.D. State Capitol in the
Democratic Minority House, KLJ and
Fireside Office Solutions.
- Started with Bismarck Aero Center
Sept 2012 as the marketing specialist
and have been here since. In my
role as the marketing specialist, I
focus on or assist with marketing,
sales, business development, event
planning, advertising, public relations
and employee recruiting
Mentors: Karel Sovak, Jon Simmers,
Peter and Jude Helling, Kris Magstadt
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I live
by simple rules that I was raised on:
treat others how you would like to be
treated, learn as much as you can
while you can, never settle, have
fun with who you are around and
what you do in life and dont forget
to take enjoyment in the little things.
Its not much, but it has helped grow
friendships all over the world, grow as
a person and as a professional and
enjoy every day to the fullest.
What motivates you? I am driven by
making others and myself happy
in the things that I do and striving
towards success each and every
day.
Challenges in your career path: It
was a challenge for me right away
to learn an industry as unique as
aviation, but since being in it, I dont
know if there is a better group
of people in an industry. Other
challenges I have found in my
path are finding the perfect work/
life balance and understanding
personal limits to not over-
commitment, which causes more
problems than it solves. Submitted photo
Whats the biggest risk youve ever for the opportunity ever since, and I matter, but rather what you learned
taken? The biggest risk that I have owe it to everyone at Bismarck Aero from each one that will help you to
ever taken was when I was pursuing Center for their patience, guidance continue to be successful in your
my masters at the University of and friendship. passion.
Mary and I decided to take the
summer to work on the family farm. Anything of which youre particularly For what are you thankful? I am
At the time, there was not much proud? I am very proud to be able thankful for all those who have
for marketing or communication to represent the University of Mary pushed me and supported me
positions in Bismarck/Mandan, and as a former graduate and servant during my career. They never let me
I felt like I wasnt able to further my leader each day in our community, give up, no matter what the situation
career. One day that summer, my the growth and success of Aviation was.
past professor, mentor and friend Career Day that has helped
Karel Sovak talked to me and educate close to 2,000 local fifth What do you see yourself doing
mentioned he knew a guy that was graders about aviation careers over in 10 years? In ten years, I want
looking for someone to basically just the last three years and to be a to see myself continuing to grow
build up a marketing department part of a leadership team that has with Bismarck Aero Center and
in his local family business. The seen multiple company successes the Bismarck/Mandan community.
company never had anyone focus recently including being named It has been great being a part
on marketing, and I had never a top 50 business to work for in our of a company and community
started a marketing department. region. organizations that have provided
To fail would have really damaged me multiple opportunities to learn
the company and killed my What advice would you offer new things and give back. I hope
chances to become a respected other young professionals? Never that in 10 years I am still going full
professional in Bismarck/Mandan. veer away from stepping out of speed ahead towards my goals and
That summer, Bismarck Aero Center your comfort zone and learning still striving for success.
CEO Jon Simmers and I came to an something new or different. In life,
agreement. I have been so grateful its not just your experiences that
40 Under 40 2015 Page 19
Russell
Kadlec
Russell Kadlec, owner of Lucky
Ducks Deli and Catering and
The Pond Restaurant and Bar, is
continually focused on downtown
Bismarcks development.

Age: 30

Position and company: Owner of

Lucky Ducks Deli and Catering/The
Pond Restaurant and Bar

Family: Jeff Kadlec (father), Heather

Kadlec (mom and business partner),
Avery Lee Kadlec (daughter), Lilli Jo
Kadlec (daughter)

Hobbies: Traveling, hunting and

fishing, golfing, working in my yard
and spending time with my family

Community involvement: Bismarck

Parking Authority

Career path: Started working in

restaurants while in high school and
through college. After college, I
continued working and managing
bars and restaurants in Denver, C.O.
Got offered a great opportunity to
work for a franchising partner, Todd
Hoekstra, with Ruby Tuesday. He
taught me how to build, open, train
staff and operate stores from the
ground up.
Mentors: Todd Hoekstra
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I am
highly motivated in all aspects of
my life. I love creating new, fun and
exciting atmospheres all around me.
Submitted photo
What motivates you? The motivation
I get is from every guest that walks to
the doors. I get to entertain people
for a living.
Challenges in your career path: In
the service industry, every day brings
new challenges.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? Leaving a job that I loved
and becoming my own boss.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? My two beautiful daughters,
Avery and Lilli
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Find a person
that has the job or career that you
want and learn from them. Dont
pass up a chance to learn.
Establish your personal brand.
Decide what you want your
reputation in the work place to be,
and let your actions define you.
Keep promises, and make deadlines.
For what are you thankful? I am
thankful for all the support given to
me from my friends, family and the
great city of Bismarck.
What do you see yourself doing in 10
years? I see myself in 10 years living
in Bismarck and being a part of the
growth, success and culture that we
are all working so hard to create.

Find a person that has the job or career that you want
and learn from them. Dont pass up a chance to learn.
Establish your personal brand. Decide what you want
your reputation in the work place to be, and let your
actions define you. Keep promises, and make deadlines.

Page 20 40 Under 40 2015

Drew Knutson
Drew Knutson is involved in the
building community as well as the
city commission to advocate for the
best build codes and practices.
Age: 32
Position and company: Vice
President, Knutson Homes
Family: Daughter Aurelia (5 years
old)
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with
my daughter, playing golf, softball,
soccer, going to the river and
hunting and fishing
Community involvement: President
of the Bismarck-Mandan Home
Builders Association, serve as a
director on the North Dakota
Association of Builders, member
of House of Prayer Church
Career path: Graduated Arizona
State University, and I have been
working with Knutson Homes for the
past eight years
Mentors: My parents. I learned
great work ethic and family values
from them. My dad built Knutson
Homes from the ground up, and I
really learned what it takes to run a
business from him.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I enjoy
spending time with my daughter,
family and friends. I consider myself
pretty outgoing, and I enjoy life. I
take pride in what I do and consider
myself a hard worker.
What motivates you? Always
improving! I feel that you can always
improve in many aspects of ones life.
Especially in business.
Have passion for what you do. Take pride in what you
do. One thing I have noticed in people who do work for
me, the ones who care and take pride are the ones who
do the best work. Dont just work to get the job done.
Challenges in your career path: Both
a challenge and a benefit of my
career path is working with my family.
It can be great at times and also
challenging at others.
Whats the biggest risk youve
ever taken? Well there could be
two. First, leaving North Dakota
to go to college at Arizona State.
Second, leaving Arizona to come
back to North Dakota to work
with family. We were not sure how
well we would all work together,
so that was a big risk. However,
it has been a great blessing.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? My daughter
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Have passion
for what you do. Take pride in what
you do. One thing I have noticed
in people who do work for me, the
ones who care and take pride are
the ones who do the best work.
Dont just work to get the job done.
For what are you thankful? Im very
thankful for my daughter. There truly
isnt anything that comes close. My
parents and brothers, they have
been a great support system and
have taught me great values. Im
also thankful for everyone who has
helped Knutson Homes become
what it has. That starts with my dad;
I wouldnt be here without him. Also,
our office manager Bonnie Gerhart,
and all of our sub-contractors have
been key to our success.
What do you see yourself doing in
10 years? In 10 years, I see myself
continuing to build homes and
always trying to improve along the Submitted photo
way.
40 Under 40 2015 Page 21
Carly
Kolbo
Carly Kolbo is a driven, focused
entrepreneur and a compassionate,
selfless leader at the same time.
Age: 30
Position and company: Owner of
Carly Loves Amos Photography and
Co-Studio
Family: Amos, husband of 9 years;
Martin Thompson, father; Nancy
Thompson, mother; Seth Thompson,
brother; Nikita, dog-child
Hobbies: Traveling, adventures,
being with people, dreaming up
businesses, snowboarding, anything
fun
Community involvement: Local:
Young Life leader, Lady Bosses (a
small group I started for female
entrepreneurs), OTA. Abroad: Arms of
Love Philippines, Jemo Ethiopia
Career path: Like many high
school students, photography
was a hobby for me. When I was
20, I was able to travel to Peru,
China and Russia as a non-profits
photographer. I havent the slightest
idea why they trusted me with their
camera, but thats where I fell in
love with photographing people.
After graduating with a degree in
graphic design and photography
from Bismarck State College, I
started taking portraits on the
side and was eventually asked to
photograph a wedding, which led
to my true passion. My husband
and I are now 8 years into shooting
modern, fun weddings for couples
who are insanely in love. Our other
business, Co-Studio was born from
our excitement and passion for
entrepreneurs in Bismarck. We think
we all have a lot to gain by joining
forces and sharing our resources as
a community.
Mentors: My parents have modeled
integrity and work ethic for me.
Duey Heid, my youth pastor in high
school, showed me what it means
to serve like Jesus, and that success
has nothing to do with dollar signs.
I spend every day with my biggest
Page 22 40 Under 40 2015
Submitted photo
mentor and the best leader I know,
my husband Amos. He has an
unadulterated passion for truth, life
and people.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew
up in Bismarck. I love it here, and
Im passionate about making
the Midwest awesome. I enjoy
connecting over ideas and hearing
about other peoples passions. Fun
is high on my priority list. Traveling
is my favorite hobby; there are so
many people to meet and cultures
to embrace. My experiences in
third world countries have burned
a desire in me for seeing poverty
eradicated and dignity restored.
What motivates you? Love for
people, whether here in Bismarck
or abroad. Ideas with big impact
motivate me. People with passion
inspire me. In my work, Im motivated
by what I promise my clients: That
Ill create unique photos and a fun
experience for them.
Challenges in your career
path: Being an entrepreneur
brings freedom and also a lot of
responsibility. When our business
really gained steam, I was working
60-70 hours per week. I knew I was in
the right profession, but figuring out a
way for work to not be my entire life
has been a task. Im still finding that
balance!
Whats the biggest risk youve
ever taken? Going full-time with
photography was a risk, but we had
Amos income to fall back on if it
failed. After a few years, we realized
the only way we were going to
create something sustainable in the
wedding industry was if we both
put our all into it. That led to Amos
quitting his job, which meant being
fully self-employed as a couple.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Im proud of the way my
husband and I have decided to
live our lives. Success, to us, equals
contribution. People are No. 1 and
we try to invest in as many lives as
we can. Everything we do boils
down to loving God and loving
people. We renovated our loft in
downtown Bismarck, where we both
live and work, and its become a
great place for community, whether
it be for our Young Life kids or the
creative class of Bismarck. We
feel the space fosters not only our
dreams but the dreams of others.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Forget about
the American Dream and dont
make your No. 1 goal financial
security. Take the leap into the
career and life you want. Youll
have to work insanely hard, but Im
convinced its better (and way more
fun) than the normal path weve
been conditioned to follow. Use your
profession as a stepping stone to
bigger, more important goals, and as
a way to love people.
For what are you thankful? The
relationships I have and the
opportunities and experiences Ive
had. Im grateful for clients who trust
us to document a huge day in their
life.
What do you see yourself doing in 10
years? Im a wedding photographer
for the long haul! Weve been able
to do non-profit photography work,
and Id like to dive more into that
world. I would love to be equal
parts wedding and humanitarian
photographer. Our goal is to do
pro bono work for non-profits and
go on adventures January through
April, then work hard May through
December.
Abby Krebs
Abby Krebs has made an impact
on about every hospital/clinic in
North Dakota by placing ER doctors
in facilities, making sure small
communities have a doctor on staff
in case of an emergency.
Age: 27
Position and company: Vice
President/Owner, Business
Development at National Medical
Resources, Inc.
Family: Mike Krebs (husband) and
baby in November
Hobbies: Snowboarding, going to
our lake, traveling
Community involvement: 1 Million
Cups. Our company participates
in volunteer projects around the
community. Last year we went
to Sibley Park and to help clean
up and also volunteered at The
Banquet (at Trinity Lutheran Church).
Career path: I plan to be with
National Medical Resources a long
time. When I first started at NMR,
there were only myself and one
other employee. Now we have three
locations and 12 employees.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I am
a native of Bismarck; I went to
University of North Dakota to receive
my B.S. in marketing and recently
(May 2015) graduated with my MBA
from the University of Mary. I work at
NMR for the past six years (2009). A
Not everything comes easy; there are struggles but also
triumphs. Dont let the struggles get you down. Learn from
them and celebrate the triumphs, even if they are little.
little background on NMR NMR
is a medical staffing management
company based in Bismarck that
was started 11 years ago. We assist
health care facilities by finding high
quality physician, nurse practitioner
and/or a physician assistant to fill
their vacancies in their facility. Some
of the vacancies are short term, a
few hours in a day, and some are
long term, for months or years at a
time.
What motivates you? Helping
hospitals and communities when
they are in need of medical staffing
help
Challenges in your career path:
Growing NMR and the challenges
with rapid growth in a company.
There are always challenges and
learning curves with every step of
the way.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Finishing my masters recently
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Not everything
comes easy; there are struggles but
also triumphs. Dont let the struggles
get you down. Learn from them and
celebrate the triumphs, even if they
are little.
For what are you thankful? I am
thankful to work for an awesome
company with great employees. I
enjoy coming to work to see what
each day brings.
Submitted photo
40 Under 40 2015 Page 23
Garrett
Kunz
Garret Kunz oversees six AT&T-
owned retail stores in western North
Dakota. He manages a team of
over 60 employees in all aspects of
the business with a main focus on
driving an extraordinary customer
experience, developing his sales
team into future leaders and driving
sales results.
Age: 34
Position and company: Area Retail
Sales Manager at AT&T
Family: I am married to my beautiful
wife, Jill. We have three children: two
girls, Avery (10), Finley (6) and our
little man, Kai (2).
Hobbies: I enjoy playing softball,
basketball, volleyball, hunting and
spending time with friends and
family.
Community involvement: I love
volunteering for any activity my
kids participate in, which includes
coaching basketball, soccer and
occasionally attempting to teach
Sunday school. Once a month
I volunteer to bus tables at the
Amvets and am a new member at
the Elks. I also support many local
charities every year.
Career path: As I was attending
Minnesota State University in
Moorhead, I originally wanted to
be a gym teacher. I loved working
with kids, enjoyed being involved
with sports, teaching and coaching.
At the time, I was working part
time selling wireless phones, and I
Page 24 40 Under 40 2015
fell in love with it. I changed
my major and earned my
bachelors degree in business
administration.
In the past 12 years, I have
been fortunate enough to
rapidly move up within AT&T. I
have ran five different locations
in North Dakota, also was
responsible for all of western
South Dakota before getting
the opportunity to move back
to my home town right here
in Bismarck four years ago.
During those years, my family
and I have moved six times; my
oldest daughter celebrated
her first six birthdays in different
homes.
I knew many years ago that
my passion for developing
people and being a successful
leader was when I always had
trouble sleeping on Sunday
nights. My wife still gives me a
hard time on how she cant
believe I cant sleep because
Im excited to go back to
work on Mondays. Im a true
believer in loving what you do;
it makes your career so easy
and rewarding.
Mentors: My parents are
without question my biggest
mentors. My dad has taught
me that hard work is the only
way you can achieve anything.
I have taken that to heart and
implement that every day in
everything I do. My mom has
taught me that you have to
Submitted photo
love what you do and be passionate
about it. I get my energy, enthusiasm
and inspirations just from listening to
her talk about her own career.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew
up in Bismarck and graduated
from Century High school. I then
attended Minnesota State University
where I received my B.S. in business
administration. I met my wife and
best friend, Jill, in college. She is from
Michigan, N.D. She now runs her
natural light photography business
Jill Kunz Photography right here in
Bismarck.
What motivates you? My family,
success, opportunity, knowing I
made a difference not only in
someones career but in their lives.
Challenges in your career path: Ive
had so many. One in particular was Anything of which youre particularly For what are you thankful? I am
putting a business plan together to proud? Having a wife who supports thankful for my family. We have
get the entire western North Dakota me in my career has been so been blessed with three beautiful
starting wage for AT&T employees beneficial; on top of that, she is young children and parents who are
raised, as we were going through a wonderful mother to our three supportive and are willing to help
high attrition rates at the peak of children. Being able to understand out at any time. Im thankful to AT&T
the oil boom, it was challenging that none of this could have for giving me the opportunity to
to keep attrition down. After happened without her support and showcase my talents and lead and
getting our starting wages up, we hard work with balancing a family develop so many people towards
have seen loyalty and employees and two careers. She has been their career and life goals!
understanding that AT&T is one of instrumental in both of our success
the best careers out there. at home and in our professional What do you see yourself doing
crafts. in 10 years? Im very passionate
Whats the biggest risk youve ever about my craft and career. I want to
taken? Checking the box that Im What advice would you offer other continue to develop young servant
re-locatable was a huge risk for me. young professionals? Get your leaders and make them better
With a wife and three kids, its never degree; it will set you apart from within AT&T and life. This has been
easy to pack up and move as often the competition. Be the best you something I have been doing for
as we did. Looking back, I wouldnt can be in every position you are in; years, and I am loving every minute
change a thing. I love my career opportunity will arise from it. Follow of it.
path, and my family has enjoyed all directions from leaders and those
the change and different towns we that you have seen be successful.
could call home!

Get your degree; it will set you apart from the

competition. Be the best you can be in every position you
are in; opportunity will arise from it. Follow directions from
leaders and those that you have seen be successful.

The power of possible.

AT&T congratulates Garrett Kunz on being
named a Bismarck Tribune 40 Under 40 honoree.
With mobility at heart, AT&T commends Garretts can-do attitude, strong exibility,
and remarkable mobility. As an employee, Garrett represents AT&Ts commitment
to mobilizing local communities. Three cheers for Garrett as he continues to help
mobilize business landscapes for the future of our world.

Screen images simulated. 2015 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the Globe logo and Mobilizing Your World, and other marks are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

40 Under 40 2015 Page 25

Doug Larsen
Doug Larsens business sense
has contributed to the growth of
Bismarck-Mandans real estate
industry.
Age: 39
Position and company: Managing
Member of Wingate Hotel and
President/Owner of Apex Builders,
LLC
Family: Amy (wife for 12 years), Dylan
Stevens (17, step-son), Christian (3,
son), Everett (3 months, son), two cats
and a dog
Hobbies: Traveling, reading and
learning
Community involvement: I have
been a member of the National
Guard for the past 21 years, and I
am a member of Trinity Lutheran
Church.
Career path: I joined the National
Guard as a senior from Granville
High School in 1994 and attended
Minot State University from 1995
until 1999. Upon graduating, I
purchased my piece of real estate.
The property had two homes on
the lot; one of them became my
first rental, and the other was my
residence in Minot. In 2013, the NG
sent me to Fort Rucker to learn to fly
helicopters, turning my home into
my second piece of rental property.
Upon graduating, I was given a full-
time position in Bismarck within the
National Guard. In the next seven
years (including a year deployed to
Iraq), we increased our rental units
from two to 49. This was done on
weekends and after-hours. Most of
our purchases were less desirable
property that required a good
amount of time, sweat and financial
investment. In 2012, we sold 40 of our
units and rolled the profits into the
majority share of the Wingate Hotel
and started Apex Builders, our house
building company.
Mentors: I have had several along
the way. My first was my grandfather,
Alf Larsen. From a young age, he
made sure I knew the value of
earning your keep. I will never forgot
him telling me to think with your
own head. I remember being 6
years old and listening to him tell
a story of being convinced to not
Page 26 40 Under 40 2015
buy some land he
told me that it was
one of his greatest
life-long regrets. In
the military, I was
blessed with working
with both Brigadier
General Giselle Wilz
and Lieutenant Colonel
(Retired) Brent Naslund
for most of my career.
On the private sector,
I have learned many
lessons from fellow
home builder Joe
Hillerson (Trademark
Realty and Boulder
Homes) and from my
broker Chad Wachter
(CEO of Investcore).
Briefly, tell us about
yourself: Simple kid
Submitted photo
from small town North
Dakota who isnt too
to add additional staff members than those around have. Owning
afraid of taking a chance. May not
and other items of overhead. your business is hard work. If you are
be the brightest tool in the shed, but
Overhead wasnt necessary when not truly a hard worker (willing to do
hasnt been outworked by too many
we could do it all ourselves, but to whatever it takes to win or simply
folks. Constantly striving to improve
grow we needed to start making survive) or if your workday ends at
as a husband, father, business
various additions. What is the right 5 p.m., I would suggest keeping a
owner, home builder and person.
time to take working capital out of job that offers a risk/reward you are
Fairly ordinary, unassuming and
the companys blood (building new willing to accept. For those who take
appreciates the small and big things
homes and acquiring more land in the chance, never stop thinking. Your
that make up this life.
our case) and put it into advertising, initial plan might be a great one, but
office space, company vehicles and it will need to be tweaked constantly
What motivates you? Desire to be
new employment positions? for it to become a successful one.
able to provide for my family and
Jimmy Buffett wrote in a song titled
the hope to someday make the
Whats the biggest risk youve ever Dear Matt Hoggatt that Luck and
world a better place for others. Also,
taken? Leaving the comforts of a hard work and a little bit of talent
obstacles and naysayers.
job as a federal technician in 2012 were the keys [to his success]. I
to venture full time into the world of would say that might be a universal
Challenges in your career path:
entrepreneurship. truth. Be ready for your lucky break,
Not a simple answer. Initially it
work hard when you get it and have
was balancing the time between
Anything of which youre particularly (or develop) a little talent in the
a full-time job with the National
proud? My time in Iraq with the related field.
Guard, my family and our part-time
Mustache company of aviators,
property management company.
crew chiefs, mechanics, refuelers For what are you thankful? My
Then it became finding the balance
and operations specialists familys support. Though many may
between and within various
(Company C 2-285th and the North see this as an individual award, in
businesses, balance between the
Dakotans that filled positions within my case it isnt. Specifically without
business side of my life and the
the other companies of the 2-285th my wife, I would not have been
increasing responsibilities within the
Battalion). The construction and nominated or selected for this
National Guard and balancing that
operation of the Wingate Hotel in award. More importantly, I would
with my personal life. A constant
Bismarck, and the steady growth of not have been as good of an
challenge is trying to make the
Apex Builders. officer in the National Guard (yes, I
right decisions about when to add
could have been worse), father to
assets to a growing business. How
What advice would you offer other my children, son to my parents or
much debt is too much? What is too
young professionals? Think with successful in the private sector.
much good debt (if there truly is
your own head. Many will tell you
good debt)? Our biggest current
that you cant your life may What do you see yourself doing in 10
challenge is with Apex Builders. We
have a surprisingly few number of years? Working and thinking with my
have expanded production from
people that will be truly happy for own head.
four houses a year to projecting
you especially when you attempt
20 homes in 2015. We have had
to accomplish something greater
Renae Moch
Renae Mochs organizational, health
management and health care
compliance knowledge has been vital to
Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health.
Age: 38
Position and company: Director of
Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health
Family: Im married to my husband
Duane, and we have two sons, Adam
and Alex.
Hobbies: Spending time with family,
interior decorating/design, entertaining
family and friends, shopping, movies,
reading and writing
Community involvement: President
of the North Dakota Medical Group
Management Association, vice president
for the North Dakota Public Health
Association, secretary/treasurer for North
Dakota Public Health Administrators/
Directors of Nursing Group, member
of the National Medical Group
Management Association, member
of the National Association of County
and City Health Officials, former board
member for Bridging the Dental Gap and
served on the University of Marys Alumni
Council
Career path: My work in health care
began at Bismarck-Burleigh Public
Health. I worked with the Tobacco
Prevention and Control Program in
an administrative support role. From
there, I was promoted into an office
management role, coordinating the
agencies grants, contracts and budgets.
Following this, I served as the clinic
manager for Medcenter Ones Bismarck
Family Medicine Clinics. I developed a
passion for health administration. This
led me to an opportunity to work for the
American Academy of Family Physicians
(AAFP) in Leawood, Kan. As a practice
management strategist for the AAFP, I
served in an advisory role for physicians
and their teams looking for help with
medical practice management issues
such as regulatory compliance, business
operations and quality improvement
efforts. I also developed tools and
resources for members to implement in
their medical practices.
In 2013, an opportunity presented itself
for me to move back to North Dakota
to be closer to family. This brings me to
where I am today. For the past two years,
I have worked for the City of Bismarck
as the director of Bismarck-Burleigh
Public Health. I am responsible for the
administrative oversight of the local
public health department including the
delivery of comprehensive and effective
community public health programs.
Mentors: My mom has been a mentor
for me when it comes to education and
continuous learning. She emphasized
the importance of obtaining a
quality education and encouraged
participation in all types of learning and
leadership opportunities. This is one of
the biggest reasons why I worked hard
to earn both a bachelors and masters
degree.
Professionally, I had a former supervisor
who believed in me and encouraged me
to get involved with the Medical Group
Management Association (MGMA),
which was a way for me to enhance
my knowledge and skills in healthcare
management and provided me with
numerous networking opportunities. My
involvement with the MGMA led me
to become board certified in medical
practice management and then attain
fellowship, which is the highest distinction
in the medical practice management
profession.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I am
originally from a small town with a
population of about 800 people. I
grew up on our family farm south of
Napoleon, ND. I am the second oldest
of five children. I grew up with a strong
work ethic, and I have always been
very driven to succeed and try new
things. After graduating from Napoleon
High School, I moved to Bismarck to
attend college at the University of Mary.
I earned a bachelor of science degree
in business administration with a minor in
business communications and a master
of business administration in health care
from the University of Mary. I love to learn!
That is why health administration is such
a great fit for me. Health care is always
changing, and it can be challenging to
keep up with new rules and regulations,
but that is what I enjoy doing. I see myself
as a change agent, and I am always
looking for ways to improve and do things
more efficiently. I love keeping up with
the latest technologies. I am progressive
and forward thinking and enjoy planning
and strategizing when I work.
What motivates you? Knowing that I have
made a difference is a great motivator
for me. Whether it is making a difference
in someones life, making a difference at
work through process improvements or
making a difference in our community, I
find it very motivating to know that the
efforts I put forth have an impact on
outcomes.
Challenges in your career path: Health
care is a very challenging industry to be
in right now. With the implementation
of the Affordable Care Act, health care
facilities have had to make drastic
changes in the past few years to be
compliant with new regulations. Going
through these changes can take a toll on
physicians, nurses and staff and that can
be very difficult for a
leader in health care
to manage. The ability
to maintain good
morale, effectively
manage change
and ensure you are
compliant with health
care regulations can
seem daunting, but
working as a team and
knowing that everyone
in this industry is going
through the same
transitions can make it
seem more bearable.
Whats the biggest risk
youve ever taken?
The biggest risk I have
ever taken was moving
out of state. After living
in North Dakota my
entire life and having
family here, making
that move was a
drastic change for
me and my family.
However, taking this risk
allowed me to further
develop my skills as a Submitted photo
leader and I was able
to experience and do doors and bring new opportunities while
things I never thought I would be able you learn from their experiences.
to do.
Lastly, remember the golden rule:
Anything of which youre particularly Treat others as you would like to be
proud? I am most proud of becoming a treated. You never know when you may
fellow in medical practice management.. encounter someone again along your
Certification in medical practice professional path. Being respectful and
management requires successful kind is always a good choice.
completion of an objective exam
and an essay exam in addition to For what are you thankful? Personally,
giving two documented presentations I am most thankful for my family. My
and maintaining 50 continuing husband, kids, parents and siblings have
education credits every three years. I always been supportive of me, and
achieved fellowship by first becoming without them, I would not be where I am
board certified in medical practice today. I have a very supportive husband,
management and then writing a and we work together to balance our
professional paper on a health care work and family lives, and I am very
management topic. I was formally thankful for that support. Professionally,
recognized at the 2013 MGMA National I am very thankful for the learning and
Conference for achieving this status, and professional development opportunities
it was a very memorable moment for me that I have had over the years, and I am
to be acknowledged in this way. grateful to have a career that allows me
to continue learning on a daily basis. The
What advice would you offer other health care industry is always changing
young professionals? Dedicate yourself and evolving, and a day working in
to lifelong learning. Make the effort and public health is never the same, but
time to learn new things, meet new this allows me to challenge myself and
people and expand your knowledge. No continue to learn and grow, and for that I
matter how much you think you know, am very thankful.
there is always something that you dont.
Treat each new day as an opportunity What do you see yourself doing in 10
to learn and grow and be open to new years? There are many challenges to
people and new ideas. overcome when it comes to the health
of our community. In 10 years, I hope to
Build networks and stay connected have made a difference in the health
to people in your line of work. People and wellness status of our residents and
working in the same industry are narrowed the gaps in health care for the
experiencing similar challenges. local area.
Networking with them can open new
40 Under 40 2015 Page 27
Shanda Morgan
Shanda Morgan moved to Bismarck
from Texas and saw the need for a
rustic furniture and western boutique
in the area.
Age: 37
Position and company: Owner
Branded Envy Rustic Home
Furnishings & Boutique
Family: Husband, Don; children
Jayden (11), Kyler (9), Shayda (1 1/2)
and by the time this is published we
will most likely have added a new
baby boy!
Hobbies: Barrel racing, breakaway
roping, sand volleyball, taking my
kids to rodeos and all their other
sporting events
Community involvement: North
Dakota Rodeo Association finals
committee, NDRA marketing and
sponsorship manager, I was an
inaugural member of the Bismarck/
Mandan Young Professionals
Network, Downtowners Association
member
Career path: After graduating from
the University of Wyoming, I started
working in the marketing field for a
rodeo company and then took a
position with West Dakota Fox TV in
Bismarck as the traffic manager. I
worked my way into programming
and promotions manager for ABC
West and West Dakota Fox. During
my time there, I was able to start
various programs including West
Dakota Idol, which was the local
spin-off of American Idol. Deciding
that wasnt quite what I was looking
for, I spent about five years in the
financial services industry. After
moving to Texas, I pursued my
passion of event planning for a large
ranch venue, planning everything
from small retreats to large
corporate parties and weddings. I
loved it but was commuting over an
hour and a half each way to work
every day. So I took a position as
the marketing and special events
coordinator for Westmoor Mfg. Co.,
a national clothing company that
manufacturers clothing lines such
as Rock and Roll Cowgirl, Rock and
Roll Cowboy, Panhandle Slim and
Powder River. I traveled across the
US and Canada setting up events
and expanding the company.
Page 28 40 Under 40 2015
I expanded and managed the
professional rodeo and music
endorsement teams for the brand as
well as implemented the high school
and college rodeo endorsement
teams. I was gone from my family a
lot in this position, and it really took
a toll, especially on my children. It
was the best decision to stop the
madness, move back to North
Dakota and start Branded Envy,
a unique rustic home furnishings
store. I try to bring new and exciting
items to the area that you cant Submitted photo
find anywhere else. It is a lot of fun
searching the country for these
What motivates you? I am motivated working men I have ever known and
items, and I figured that since I
by quite a few things. Being told is constantly doing things for others.
dont like to have the same things
something cant be done is I am so very proud of my children.
as everyone else, other people may
probably primary. I like the challenge Each have their own unique
have the same thoughts!
and proving that with dedication personalities and are kind, loving
and effort, yes it can! Also, my and very entertaining. It is so fun to
Mentors: My biggest mentors have
children are huge motivators. I want watch them excel at their passions
been my parents. My dad taught
to be someone they are proud of, as they grow.
me the value of a handshake and to
and I want to build something that
stand behind your word. That is very
they can be a part of and carry on if What advice would you offer other
hard to find in todays world, but
they so desire. young professionals? Follow your
to me, a persons word should be
dreams and dont let anyone else
stronger than a contract. My moms
Challenges in your career path: make you feel that you are unable
work ethic is second to none. She
Being a mother and trying to to succeed. Travel and see different
gets the job done, no complaining
balance quality time with my places and how they work. You
or making excuses. If she says she
husband and children all while never will truly understand how
is going to do it, you dont have to
growing a new business as well as great a place is until you have
worry about it. She is also selfless and
having time for other activities has been elsewhere. It is easy to get
constantly doing for others rather
proven to be quite challenging but complacent where you are at and
than herself. She does not want or
also very rewarding. get into a routine. I have always lived
need recognition, helping others
by the saying Do not follow where
(even if they dont know it was her)
Whats the biggest risk youve ever the path may lead, go instead
is enough.
taken? Deciding one day that we where there is no path and leave
were going to pick up and move a trail. And that is so true as you
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew
our family to Texas. We left our family, always hear, If you keep doing what
up as part of the fifth generation
friends and jobs for a place we youve always done, youre going
on a black Angus cattle ranch
didnt know to try something new. to keep getting what youve always
that my great-great grandfather
We had the only grandkids at the gotten. Find something that makes
homesteaded in 1882 south of
time, and it wasnt the most popular you happy and go after it!
McKenzie. After graduating in a
decision with our families. It turned
class of three from eighth grade in
out to be one of the best decisions For what are you thankful? God has
McKenzie, I went onto Simle Middle
we made. As a family unit, we grew blessed us in so many ways and
School and Century High School in
much closer as we had to rely on continues to do so every day. First
Bismarck. In 1999, I was crowned Miss
each other. We also realized how and foremost is the fact that my
Rodeo N.D. and was lucky enough
much we missed North Dakota. It is family is healthy and happy.
to end up third runner up in the Miss
hard to explain the draw of North
Rodeo America pageant. During
Dakota to people who havent What do you see yourself doing
that year, I traveled across the United
grown up here, but there definitely in 10 years? I dont see myself
States and Canada promoting
is one. North Dakota is a very clean slowing down anytime soon. For sure
rodeo, ranching and the western
state and one of the best places, in following my kids in all their activities
way of life. It was a wonderful
my opinion, to raise a family. as we will have them in grade school
experience. I then graduated from
to college at that point. From a
the University of Wyoming with an
Anything of which youre particularly business standpoint, I will continue to
agricultural business and applied
proud? I am very proud of my work hard to build a legacy for my
economics degree with emphasis
husband who is the support family. I am always striving to expand
in communications. I was on the UW
backbone of our family. Without and make things better. As long
Rodeo Team, and it was there that I
him, I wouldnt be able to have as my family is happy and we are
met my husband, Don.
these crazy ideas and start my own doing what we enjoy, we will have
business! He is one of the hardest been successful!
Brian Moritz
Brian Moritzs work has made
a profound impact on several
businesses that are looking to create
a safer working environment. As our
community and state grows, Moritzs
services have reduced lost work
time, lowered insurance claims and
increased efficiency.
Age: 40
Position and company: Owner/
Operator at Drug and Alcohol
Testing Network
Family: Wife Laci, and pets Kenny
(dog) and Tobey (cat)
Hobbies: I like to participate in many
hobbies, including bowling, golfing,
playing softball and running 5Ks
Community involvement: I am
involved in many community events
and organizations. For example, I am
a director in the Bismarck/Mandan
Bowling Association and league
president for the Wednesday night
bowling league. Last year, I became
a member of Team Red, White
and Blue in the Bismarck-Mandan
community, where the mission is
enriching the lives of veterans. I am
a member of the Fraternal Order
of Eagles in Bismarck AERIE 2237,
Bismarck and Dickinson Chamber
of Commerce and CenDak Safety.
Additionally, I enjoy supporting many
local charities throughout the year.
Career path: Upon return from my
deployment in 2005, I was offered a
position in drug and alcohol testing
at a local business. This opportunity
paved the way for me to open my
own business, the Drug and Alcohol
Testing Network, in November of
2012.
Mentors: Im privileged to have
several mentors in my life. My father,
David (Tuna), and my brothers, Tim
and Eric, who have developed a
successful local business. They have
There is always uncertainty in everything you do. Take
chances, and trust your support system. And whether
you are successful or not, be confident in your choices.
taught me a great deal about
business and life in general. I
have acquired my business
acumen from my mother, Judy,
and father, and often look to
them for advice and counsel.
Im very proud of my wife, Laci,
for having my side and helping
me make business decisions.
Briefly, tell us about yourself:
I have lived in Bismarck since
the age of 5 and graduated in
1994 from Bismarck High School.
I enlisted in the N.D. National
Guard in 1996 and received
my degree in elementary
education at the University of
Mary in 2002. I was deployed
to Iraq in 2004 and returned in
2005.
What motivates you? The sense
of accomplishment associated
with starting and growing a
business on my own, despite
the fear of the uncertainty of
the future and where it will take
me.
Challenges in your career
path: While there are many
challenges associated with
starting a business, I have found
that the toughest obstacle
for me is trusting in myself and Submitted photo
having confidence in my
talents.
or my military involvement. I am For what are you thankful? I
Whats the biggest risk youve ever particularly proud to have my wife am thankful for the professional
taken? Besides relying solely upon standing by side, knowing win or lose, relationships I have developed
myself to make educated business we are in it together. over the years. Not only are these
decisions, finding balance amongst individuals my clients and peers, but
operating a business, military What advice would you offer other they are also my friends.
involvement and nurturing my family young professionals? There is always
and home life. uncertainty in everything you What do you see yourself doing in 10
do. Take chances, and trust your years? Expanding my business and
Anything of which youre particularly support system. And whether you having more locations throughout
proud? I am extremely proud of my are successful or not, be confident in North Dakota. Adding staff and
military career, which is going on 15 your choices. Lastly, be appreciative growing in the realm of safety and
years, and successfully completing of others, send thank-you cards and making the Drug and Alcohol Testing
a deployment to Iraq. I am also show gratitude, in particular with Network a one-stop shop for all of
very proud of the friends that I have those you do business. our clients needs.
made, whether through my business
40 Under 40 2015 Page 29
Joey Nelson
Through her work at Unisys and
HealthSource, Joey Nelson has
helped lay the groundwork for great
jobs in Bismarck.
Age: 35
Position and company: Project
Control Finance Lead at Unisys.
Partial Owner of HealthSource of
Bismarck clinics.
Family: Husband, Dr. Bill Nelson,
daughter, Andi (10) and son, Liam
(2).
Hobbies: Traveling, swimming,
spending time with my family and
volunteer work
Community involvement: Treasurer
of Welcome House, volunteer
basketball coach, United Way Hero
donor, historically organized various
workplace drives for charities
Career path: I was fortunate to
start in the professional world at a
young age while working toward
my degree. I started at Seagate
in Bloomington, Minn., 15 years
ago and worked with a wonderful
research and development
department. The cultural diversity
in that office was a true blessing for
this small town girl and completely
changed my outlook on the world.
The philanthropic focus of the
people I worked with ingrained
a true sense of community
commitment. I graduated from
University of Mary with a bachelor
of science in business administration
and accounting. I worked for a
couple small companies as an
accountant before being promoted
to corporate controller. I joined
Unisys in 2010 and became a small
business owner later that same year.
My husband and I, along with our
business partner, opened our second
HealthSource in August 2013.
Mentors: My father, Ron Johnson,
Page 30 40 Under 40 2015
is a brilliant man with an
incredible work ethic. He
has been a major influence
on my life path. Success
was never easily handed
to him, but he never gave
up. I have also had the
fortunate opportunity to
work with a local individual,
Dan Spilovoy, who has
demonstrated how to
use humor in the office
and how to build rapport.
Additionally, I have a team
of strong working mothers
that I work with at Unisys
that serve as examples for
me every day.
Briefly, tell us about yourself:
I grew up in Mohall with
three sisters and my parents,
Ron and Jerrie Johnson.
From a young age, I had
my heart set on serving in
the Air Force. I started at
University of St. Thomas, in
St. Paul, Minn., on an ROTC
scholarship. My health had
other plans for me and
led me away from the
Air Force and ultimately
into accounting. Funny
that I ever questioned this
career path when I look
through the inventories
and spreadsheets I used
to keep on my personal
belongings as a child. I
was convinced that once
I left North Dakota, I would
never return. Luckily, a little
maturity changed my
outlook on life and brought
me back. I met my husband
just before my senior year
of high school. He was an
adorable college guy with
plans to go to chiropractic
school. That was 18 years
ago, and we are still
together today, celebrating
our 12th wedding
anniversary in August. Submitted photo
What motivates you? My children
are my biggest motivators, especially
my daughter. It is so important to
me that she witnesses a strong
mother and understands that her
world need not have limits. I work
every day to be a fine example
for them. Its not always a success,
and Ill never be perfect, but they
see me giving each task my very
best effort. Its also important to me
that they see me giving back to the
community. I take the time to help
those in need, and I want them to
do the same.
Challenges in your career path:
Balancing work, business ownership,
home and community involvement
has proved to be a challenge.
When I look at it from a high level,
it actually warms my heart. Having
so much on my plate is a pretty
good problem to have, and many
would be thrilled with even half the
responsibilities I hold. At the end
of each day, I look back at what
I accomplished, and Im usually
proud of my ability to manage
stressors with ease. Its a skill set I
dont think people are born with, but
it is one I have worked hard to grow.
As a business owner, one of the
biggest challenges has been in
HealthSource has a motto
that what you think about,
you bring about. It sounds
over-simplified, but its
served me very well. Look at
challenges as opportunities
to grow rather than seeing
them as dreadful problems.
partnering with my husband. We
learned early on, we needed to
separate business and our marriage
with defined barriers. Its much easier
to maintain professional decorum
with a colleague than with a
spouse. My husband is an incredible
chiropractor and offers wonderful
care to patients but is not gifted
with the greatest business acumen.
Today, I see that characteristic
makes him a better doctor as he is
patient focused, but when we first
started our endeavor, it was very
hard for my business mind to see his
key values.
Whats the biggest risk youve
ever taken? In 2010, I joined a pilot
team at Unisys. Our mission was
to successfully bring the project
control role, in part, to the Bismarck
office. We had an initial team of
five people, a solid training plan
and a lot of uncertainty as to
what the future would hold. With
the help of some great leaders,
we were successful and quickly
grew the department to 14 people
within the first year. That same
year, my husband and I made the
decision to purchase a clinic and
join HealthSource Chiropractic, a
nation-wide chiropractic franchise.
Both decisions ended up changing
our lives for the better, bringing us
to a place we could never have
imagined.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? I am incredibly proud of my
teams at Unisys and HealthSource.
Being a part of the Welcome House
board of directors has also brought
me so much joy. I am fortunate to
work with some wonderfully gifted
individuals, each with their own
unique personality and assets. Goes
without saying, but above all else,
my family is my main source of pride.
My husbands innate ability to heal
is awe inspiring. My daughter has an
incredible heart and is so loving. My
son is just a handsome ball of energy
with a smile that fits his tall stature.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? HealthSource
has a motto that what you think
about, you bring about. It sounds
over-simplified, but its served me
very well. Look at challenges as
opportunities to grow rather than
seeing them as dreadful problems.
Everyone has obstacles, some
greater than others, the key is to find
the solution and move on. Look at
the world through a broader lense
We congratulate you on your
selection to
The Bismarck Tribunes
Forty Under 40 Class of 2015.
We are so proud of your
leadership, professionalism
and commitment to the
Bismarck community.
1133 College Dr, Bismarck, ND
701.221.7000
and truly appreciate your position
in life. Lastly, find a way to help the
community and the reward will
come back to you.
For what are you thankful? I am
most thankful for the opportunity to
have a family. My husband and my
children are my biggest blessings.
I am also grateful for an employer
that allows flexibility to tend to
family needs while still holding our
team responsible for deadlines and
actions. I am also truly grateful for
my soul sisters. These women bring
to me so much love, laughter and
happiness on a daily basis.
What do you see yourself doing in 10
years? Hopefully I will be the mother
to a college student and my son will
be in middle school, as opposed to
a very busy elementary student and
toddler I have today. That alone will
change life more than I can fathom.
My hope is that as my children grow,
my time is freed up to allow myself
to give back even more to our
community and maybe, just maybe,
in 10 years, Ill have time to enjoy
coffee with friends.
40 Under 40 2015 Page 31
Tim Olson
Tim Olson, as operations director at
Missouri Valley Family YMCA, has lead
a team of five program directors to
improve existing programs and has
helped start new programs like the
Parkinsons wellness at the Y and
upcoming summer feeding program.
Age: 38
Position and company: Operations
Director at Missouri Valley Family YMCA
Family: Wife Stacy, son Tate (9), son
Jacoby (6), daughter Kinsley (4),
daughter Callie (3 months)
Hobbies: Spending time with family,
outdoors, yard work, running, biking, sports
Community involvement: Rotary, Fort
Lincoln Elementary PTO/playground
fundraiser chair, volunteer youth baseball
coach, Citizens for Mandan Sports
Complex
Career path: My journey in the Y began
in 1997 during college. I worked part
time at the Missouri Valley Family YMCA
and also the Minot Family YMCA. It was
during this time at the Missouri Valley
Family YMCA that I realized that the Y
could be a career option for me. After
graduating college, I moved to Phoenix,
AZ, and worked for five years for the
Valley of the Sun YMCA at the Chris-
Town YMCA. I started my professional
career as a health and fitness director
there and quickly worked my way up to
senior program director where I oversaw
all the program departments within Y.
In the fall of 2005, my family moved to
Colorado Springs, Colo., as I accepted a
position with the YMCA of the Pikes Peak
Region at the Garden Ranch Family
Center YMCA. I worked three years there
as the associate executive director
and oversaw all the membership and
program departments within the Y. In the
fall of 2008, I took the largest step in my
career and accepted the role of CEO/
executive director of the Marshall Area
YMCA in Marshall, Minn., where I served
for 3 1/2 years. In the spring of 2012, I
made the decision to move closer to our
family and accepted the role of CEO/
executive director of the Fergus Falls Area
Family YMCA in Fergus Falls, Minn., where I
served in this role for just under two years.
In the spring of 2014, I had an opportunity
to bring my career full circle and come
back to where my Y journey first began.
In March 2014, I accepted the role of
operations director for the Missouri Valley
Family YMCA. I currently oversee the
membership, all program departments
and help with the day-to-day operations
of our facility.
Mentors: There have been many
influential leaders in the Y over the
years that I would consider my mentors.
Page 32 40 Under 40 2015
Numerous individuals that I
worked with at the Valley of the
Sun YMCA, YMCA of the Pikes
Peak Region and Missouri Valley
Family YMCA have had an
integral part helping me start my
Y career and develop my skill set.
My father is also someone that
I would consider a very strong
mentor in my life. I am the man
that I am today because of
him. He has instilled many good
values and qualities in me and
helped me understand the value
of hard work. He has always
been there for me in tough times
and has been a strong sounding
board for me to bounce ideas off
of or get advice.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I am
Submitted photo
originally from Velva, ND, where
we lived on the family farm. I
their top senior leadership to a new in the work that I do and have worked
graduated from Velva High School. I
office in the Twin Cities. This relocation very hard to expand my expertise
attended Bismarck State College for two
of the staff created a large strain on and knowledge base. Working hard
years and the University of Mary for one
our membership budget. This short fall in and becoming knowledgeable in the
year. I played baseball for each of these
anticipated revenue ($100,000) forced operations of a Y gave me the ability
schools. After my junior year of college,
me to step back and really analyze and options to progress quickly within my
I decided to change my major and
our organization and challenged my career in the Y movement.
transferred schools to pursue a different
business skills. This challenge created
degree. I attended Minot State University
new opportunities for our Y to run more What advice would you offer other
and graduated in December of 1999
efficiently. I put new operational plans young professionals? There is one piece
with a bachelors of science degree in
into place, which allowed us to bring this of advice that one of my mentors early
corporate fitness.
budget back into line by the end of the on told me that has stuck with me
year and finish with a balance budget. throughout my career: Dont be great
What motivates you? There are two areas
in one thing, but good in many things. In
that really motivate me.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever the non-profit world, you have to learn to
Taking extreme pride in my work: I dont
taken? One of the biggest risks that I wear many different hats on a day-to-
just do things do to do things. I am very
have ever taken was when I accepted day basis. Really try to add more tools
methodical in my thinking everything
the role of Y CEO/executive director to your toolbox so that you are a well-
is well planned and thought out. I give
in Fergus Fall, Minn. I was going from a rounded professional in your area and
100 percent to everything I do. I strive for
Y that was very well supported in that are good in many things.
excellence, and ensure that all details
community, debt free with money in
have been followed up on and the task is
reserves and a strong membership base For what are you thankful? I am
completed.
to a Y that had struggled financially over extremely thankful for my family. My
Working with people: I enjoy interacting
the past few years, had significant debt, family has been very supportive of my Y
with new people and continuing to
HR issues and a declining membership career. Every decision that I make must
develop relationships each day. On a
base. I knew there were challenges and benefit my family. Regardless of what
daily basis, whether big or small, the
that the risk was high, but I could see the I accomplish in my career, I must find
YMCA is impacting peoples lives, and
potential of this Y. Knowing that I could be time, energy and passion to devote to
knowing that I am a part of that really
part of building a new strong foundation my family, as they will have the longest
motivates me.
in this Y and create a focal point for the influence on my career and my well-
community really fired me up. In my time being.
Challenges in your career path: There
there, I was successful in getting this Y
has been many hard program decisions
turned around and on the right path I am also very thankful and blessed for
that were made that were not always
for success. I helped create a stronger the opportunities that I have had to work
favored by our members. But in the end,
revenue base through our memberships, for different Ys around the country. This
these decisions were the best business
programs and charitable contributions. has created many beneficial learning
decisions for our organization. One large
The communities support for the Y experiences for me and has helped me
challenge that really sticks in my mind
increased, and I know that I left this Y in a progress in my career.
is when I became a new CEO just as
better position than when I arrived.
the economic downturn happened at
What do you see yourself doing in 10
the end of 2008. One of the Ys large
Anything of which youre particularly years? I see myself continuing to be an
corporate partners/donors was affected
proud? I am extremely proud of what I important part of senior management
hard by these times and started a major
was able to accomplish during my time team at the Missouri Valley Family YMCA. I
downsizing and restructuring of their top
in Fergus Falls, but probably one of my will be a part of visionary process to help
leadership and organization. Our 2009
proudest Y moments would be when create new growth opportunities and
fiscal year budget had been set based
I became a CEO at the age of 31. I expand our reach out into the Bismarck/
on past trends and performance. This
was the youngest Y CEO in Minnesota Mandan communities to serve more of
corporation had to cut back significantly
and maybe one of the younger ones our population.
on their annual support campaign
around the country. I take extreme pride
contribution and relocated many of
Jessica Petrick
Jessica Petrick is making an impact
on peoples everyday lives. Shes
poured her heart and soul into
working with individuals at American
Heart Association events.
Age: 34
Position and company: Corporate
Events Director for The American
Heart Association
Family: Curtis Petrick, husband;
Reed Petrick, son; and Lola Petrick,
daughter
Hobbies: I love traveling, reading
and spending time outdoors
including hunting, fishing, camping
and boating
Community involvement: I served
in the N.D. National Guard for six
years and continue to be part of
Team Red, White and Blue Bismarck.
I have also served as a mentor at
T.A.P.S Good Grief Camp and am
a volunteer coach for many of our
childrens activities.
Career path: I finished my
undergraduate degree at the
University of Mary and graduated
with my MBA also from the University
of Mary. After serving in Iraq in
support of Operation Iraqi Freedom,
I opened a salon/spa and sold
it two years later. We moved to
Minot where I was the director of
human resources at Kalix, and after
relocating back to Mandan, work for
the American Heart Association.
Mentors: My mom and Heidi
Heitkamp
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew
up in Scranton and graduated from
high school in Bowman. My maiden
name is Perkins, which has become
well known because of my cousin
Kat Perkins who was recently on NBC
The Voice. What an amazing ride it
Always improve yourself, whether that is furthering your education
or finding what makes you want to get up each morning. Your life
is only as good as you make it. Keep chasing your dream.
has been!
After graduation, I
moved to Bismarck
and attended the
University of Mary on an
academic scholarship.
My last semester of
college, I was deployed
to Iraq where I spent 14
months serving with the
101st Airborne Division.
I met my now husband
while deployed.
When I returned from
Iraq, I finished school
and opened LaBelle
Day Spa. Two years and
two babies later, I sold
the business and started
working for Solamar
Agency as the senior
account manager. I
served clients throughout
the Unites States
including The Party
Goddess in Los Angeles.
I then returned to school
and finished my masters
in business administration
and moved to Minot and
worked as the director
Submitted photo
of human resources for
a large nonprofit that
nonprofits has filled my desire furthering your education or finding
serves people with developmental
to make a difference in our what makes you want to get up
disabilities.
communities. each morning. Your life is only as
good as you make it. Keep chasing
We moved back to Mandan in 2014,
Whats the biggest risk youve ever your dream.
and now I work as the corporate
taken? Opening my own bricks and
events director for the American
mortar business when I was only 26 For what are you thankful? My
Heart Association, which includes
years old. amazing husband who always lets
the planning, fundraising and
me be who I am.
organization of two annual events:
Anything of which youre particularly
The Bismarck Heart Walk and Go
proud? I am proud to have served What do you see yourself doing in
Red for Women.
as a staff sergeant in the North 10 years? I see myself perhaps in a
Dakota National Guard. political position so I can continue
What motivates you? My kids.
to help others and improve this
What advice would you offer amazing state that has provided so
Challenges in your career path:
other young professionals? Always much for my family.
Finding the right fit has been the
improve yourself, whether that is
most challenging. Working for
40 Under 40 2015 Page 33
Shaun Quissell
At the North Dakota Department of
Agriculture, Shaun Quissell has had
an impact on food handling and
safety. His department is working
vigorously to revive a struggling dairy
industry in the state.
Age: 30
Position and company: Livestock
Development Division Director of
the North Dakota Department of
Agriculture
Family: Wife Elizabeth and children
Cheyanne (7), Bentley (5)
Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, attending
children 4-H and sporting events
Community involvement: Member
of North Dakota Stockmens
Association, Almont United Lutheran
Church.
Career path: After graduation, I
started working as a meat inspector
for the North Dakota Department of
Agriculture. In 2010, I was promoted
to a senior meat inspector, and in
April of 2014, I took over the role
of livestock development division
director of the North Dakota
Department of Agriculture. The
livestock development division
consists of meat inspection,
dairy inspection, feed inspection,
livestock development, livestock
pollution prevention, age and
source verification program and
auction market and livestock dealer
licensing.
Mentors: I had two mentors growing
up, a neighbor Gene Williams and
my grandpa Don Hacker.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I was
born and raised in the Sioux Falls
area of South Dakota. I spent
my summers working on my
grandparents dairy farm and
visiting ranches and feedlots with my
father all of my childhood, where I
gained my passion for agriculture. I
graduated from South Dakota State
University in 2007 with a degree in
animal science. After graduation, I
Page 34 40 Under 40 2015
followed my wife back to her home
in North Dakota and started working
as a meat inspector for the North
Dakota Department of Agriculture,
and Ive been employed by them
ever since. My wife and I also own
and operate Carons AI Service,
which we artificially inseminate
cattle during breeding season.
We run a few cows with my wifes
grandparents and enjoying working
on the ranch with them.
What motivates you? Being able
to provide for my family and my
passion for agriculture
Challenges in your career path:
Biggest challenge I have had
is learning how to work with a
number of different types of groups.
I think another challenge has
been learning how to be a good
supervisor, balancing the needs of
those that I work with and the needs
of the department.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? My wife and I purchased Submitted photo
40 head of cattle on our own. We
learned a lot of lessons from that
adventure. I think it has helped every
day in my new position.
Anything of which youre particularly
Congrats to
proud? Im really proud of the
business my wife has built with
Carons AI service. Im also proud to
Shaun Quissell!
be the youngest division director at
the Department of Agriculture.
We are proud of all the work you do for
What advice would you offer other North Dakota agriculture.
young professionals? Nothing can
every replace hard work; nothing
will be given to you. Learn how to Thank you!
leave work at work, and be present
at home.
For what are you thankful? Having
my family and the chance to be
involved in animal agriculture
What do you see yourself doing
in 10 years? Still working for the
Department of Agriculture and
hopefully helping to develop the
livestock industry in the state
Agriculture Commissioner
Doug Goehring
www.nd.gov/ndda 701-328-2231 ndda@nd.gov
Brad Schaffer
As Information Technology Manager
in charge of Drivers License, Motor
Vehicles and Safety Sytems, Brad
Schaffer is in charge of mission
critical systems, which affect
the safety of the public. As such,
responsibilities of keeping these
systems up and running 24/7 are
enormous.
Age: 35
Position and company: Information
Technology Manager at N.D.
Department of Transportation
Family: Jolene my wife, twins Chloe
and Bryson (19 months), parents Ken
and Jeanie and brother Scott
Hobbies: Golf, softball and running
Community involvement: I am
an adjunct faculty member at
Rasmussen College and the
University of Mary and have taught
computer classes for the past ten
years. I enjoy working with the
students to help them achieve
their career goals. I am also able
to provide examples from my
experience and the importance
of hard work. It is a great feeling
seeing former students succeed and
accomplish what they set out to do.
Career path: I received my
bachelors degree in computer
information systems from University
of Mary and two days later started
working for the State IT department.
After receiving some valuable work
experience and my masters degree
in management, I moved to DOT
where I became the IT Business
Analyst for the Drivers License
System. In October of 2014, I was
given the opportunity to become
the IT Manager responsible for the
Drivers License, Motor Vehicle and
Safety Systems.
Mentors: My parents have always
played an important role in our
lives. They have encouraged my
brother and me to do our best and
accomplish our goals with hard
work and determination. My dad
taught us early on that if we want
something we have to work for it. My
mom taught us always to believe in
ourselves. My brother taught me not
to take everything so seriously and
to see and appreciate the lighter
side of life. On the professional side,
there have been many people
along the way who have given me
great advice.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I
was born and raised in Bismarck.
I attended Century High School
and then the University of Mary,
where I received my bachelors
and masters degrees. I have been
married for four years, and now most
of my free time is spent chasing
around my 19-month-old daughter
and son and spending time with my
family.
What motivates you? I am motivated
by challenges, at work and in
personal life. I like to tackle issues
head on and try to come up with
creative solutions that will work for
everyone. Helping other people
achieve something in their lives is
also a great motivation factor.
Challenges in your career path: In
technology, the only thing that stays
constant is change. You have to
be willing to constantly learn new
and upcoming technologies and
improve systems to provide better
customer service. As our workload
increases, we have to always look at
ways we can automate transactions
and provide more services online.
The less time people have to wait in Submitted photo
line the better.
career. You also have to be willing to me in all my endeavors.
Whats the biggest risk youve put the time in; dont expect to start
ever taken? When I was a junior in at the top. The harder you work, the What do you see yourself doing in 10
college, only knowing a few words greater the reward. years? I expect to be doing much
in French, I spent a spring in Paris, of the same because I truly enjoy it.
France to attend the French School For what are you thankful? I am DOT is a great place to work, with
of Electronics and Information. I most thankful for a great family. great people. I also want to keep
experienced first hand how other My parents, brother and wife have working in the classroom and help
countries use technology and was always supported and encouraged students achieve their dreams.
also fortunate to have stayed with
a great host family, and I learned
many cultural differences.
Anything of which youre particularly
Congratulations to
Brad Schaffer
proud? I am very proud to be
working with one of the best teams
at DOT. Their creative solutions to
problems and the workload they are
able to handle is impressive. They
are a definite asset to the state. They
also make it fun to go to work. Were very proud of you
and glad that you are part
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Building of the NDDOT team!
networks of people is important. It
can help you at any point in your
40 Under 40 2015 Page 35
Beth Schatz Kaylor
Besides her day job, Beth Schatz
Kaylor has a robust career as a
freelance writer and is active within
the local foods community. Most
impressively, she was the brainchild,
chef and leading force behind
the annual farm-to-table dinner at
Riverbound Farm.
Age: 34
Position and company:
- Client services director at Agency
MABU
- Freelance writer and blogger at
RhubarbandVenison.com
- Future mobile food entrepreneur
(coming soon!)
Family: Husband, Kent, and son,
Benjamin
Hobbies: All things food promoting
local food via social networks,
reading culinary blogs, gardening,
cooking, baking, preserving and
subsequent eating and exercise,
out of necessity (see previous
hobbies)
Community involvement:
Currently vice president of the
Friends of the Bismarck Public Library.
I love our library.
Career path: Bismarck High School
(99), UND (03). Joined Bobcat
Companys export parts division,
supporting dealerships in Latin and
South America, then career shift to
Agency MABU, leading marketing
and communications efforts for
government and nonprofit clients.
As a freelance writer, my writing on
North Dakota food and travel has
been featured in local and national
publications.
Mentors: Too many to list here!
Mike Mabin and Tracy Finneman
have served as key mentors and
examples in community building
and leadership. Also, I wouldnt
be who I am today without
teachers who gently pushed me
to reach higher, especially Marilyn
Johnson (Will-Moore) and Jennifer
Montgomery (BHS).
Briefly, tell us about yourself: Im
a communicator to the core
developing big picture strategic
marketing plans, writing, public
speaking, I enjoy it all but my
Page 36 40 Under 40 2015
co-workers will agree Im happiest with the Friends of the Library.
with a red editing pen in hand. My family and I live pretty
The Kaizen background I gained simply weve consciously
at Bobcat definitely applies to my made choices to allow us
marketing career. Im always looking more time and resources for
for process improvements, constantly creativity, community, and
driving toward measurable results. doing things just for the joy
of it.
What motivates you? I believe
in leading by example. I want to What advice would you offer
squeeze every drop out of my days other young professionals?
and be an instigator for change, Visualize your goals. Be
whether through my career, my blog specific about what you
or my volunteer work. To roughly want to achieve.
paraphrase E.B. White, I wake up in
the morning determined to both For what are you thankful?
change the world and have a heck My husband Kent Kaylor. Hes
of a good time. Sometimes this my foundation, my better
makes it hard to plan my day. half, endlessly patient and
encouraging. I lucked out
Challenges in your career path: The finding that guy.
fear of failure. When I was younger,
I played it safe, stuck to the skills I What do you see yourself
knew, resisted challenge if I was not doing in 10 years? Growing
going to immediately succeed at it. into more community
Its taken me a long time to accept leadership roles, writing,
failure as a good thing, but now traveling to delicious places
its clear that if Im not failing, Im and finally perfecting my Submitted photo
not pushing myself. I want to keep omelette.
growing and learning. I want to take
on bigger challenges and fail hard,
then brush myself off and do it better
next time.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? My adventures in local food,
including hosting farm-to-table
dinners and, most recently, buying
a food truck. How we eat is a direct
reflection on our quality of life, and
supporting our local food culture
has become a strong passion for
me. We need more ways to directly
participate in locally produced food
and connect with our agrarian roots
while enjoying great meals. Bismarck
has come a long way in the past
few years, thanks to key innovators
in our food community, and were
on the cusp of even more exciting
things to come. I love being a part
of it, especially if my voice can help
support area farmers and producers
while making Bismarck-Mandan a
more delicious place to live.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Using my energy for good.
I love knowing my work directly
impacts peoples lives for the better,
whether its developing a marketing
campaign for a worthy non-profit
or getting more Little Free Libraries
in our community through my work
Brandon Solberg
Brandon Solberg has modernized
technology and works to create
a positive culture within the North
Dakota Highway Patrol.
Age: 38
Position and company: Chief of Staff
at North Dakota Highway Patrol
Family: My wife, Heather, my
daughter, Rachel (7), and my two
sons, Blake (5) and Jack (1).
Hobbies: Traveling, reading, playing
poker, spending time with family and
preventing my two oldest children
from permanently injuring each
other
Community involvement: Member
of International Association of
Chiefs of Police, North Dakota
Peace Officers Association, Criminal
Justice Information Sharing Board,
Statewide Interoperability Executive
Committee, Liberty PTO and Good
Shepherd Lutheran Church
Career path: I obtained an associate
of applied science degree in law
enforcement from Alexandria
Technical College in Minnesota. I
worked as a deputy sheriff in Dickey
County, ND, for nearly two years
before being hired as a state trooper
by the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
I served as a traffic enforcement
trooper for four years in Grafton
and two years in Grand Forks. I was
promoted to sergeant and moved
to Fargo where I completed my
bachelor degree in social science
through the University of North
Dakota and attended Northwestern
Universitys School of Police Staff
and Command. After two years as
a district supervisor in Fargo, I was
promoted to lieutenant and moved
to Bismarck as the planning and
property officer. In Bismarck, I was
promoted to captain as the support
services division commander and
then to major as the chief of staff.
Mentors: Jeff Bopp who encouraged
me to stretch beyond my comfort
zone, Arnie Zent who introduced
me to the excitement of leadership,
Joel Scharf who prepared me for
a career in law enforcement and
sparked my passion for taking on
more responsibility, Jim Bohannon
who offered me my first full-time
job in law enforcement and gave
me the freedom to learn from my
mistakes, Jim Prochniak who taught
me to implement change gradually
and prepare others to fill my role
and Mike Gerhart who showed
me the importance of caring for
employees at a deeper level and
maintaining a positive life-work
balance.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I spent
my early years in Belle Fourche,
S.D., which sparked my ongoing
attraction to the Black Hills. During
grade school, my family relocated
to North Dakota, and I graduated
high school in Valley City. I grew up
with two brothers, and I thank my
older brother for boldly showing me
the path to avoid if I ever wanted
to become a police officer. I went
to college in Minnesota, but I had
every intention of returning to North
Dakota because its one of the
safest states in the nation with a
strong, robust economy. Bismarck has
been a great city in which to raise a
family.
What motivates you? Ive always
had a passion and drive to help
people, even those who dont
appreciate the services that law
enforcement provides. I admit Im
biased after being exposed to the
work that our peace officers do,
but I cant imagine society without
some sort of law enforcement
presence. There seems to be a
criminal element no matter where
you go, and violations as simple
as speeding are causing fatalities
on our roadways. A police force
comprised of our own citizens
feels like the appropriate fit, and
law enforcement agencies must
continue to attract those who have
a desire to help anyone in need.
Challenges in your career path:
One of the greatest challenges was
getting promoted and supervising
employees who had several more
years of experience than me. I
always focused on learning from
those employees while trying to
build a foundation of mutual trust
and respect. I will put in the time and
work necessary to prove that I can
handle whatever role I am assigned.
One additional challenge I faced
was turning 34. A co-worker kindly
informed me on my 34th birthday
that I was as far from the age of 18
as I was from 50. After emotionally
dealing with that blow, turning 40 will
be a walk in the park.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? The biggest risk Ive taken
was accepting a promotion and
moving from Fargo to Bismarck. I
was married by then, and my wife
had to give up a great job that she
loved, she had to search for and
start a new job, we had to hunt for
a new house and sell our old house Submitted photo
and we had to pack everything
up and move to a new city away managers who acted as if it did. My
from our family and friends in the advice would be to rely on input
dead of winter. The risk was to my from your employees regardless
personal well-being because during of their position or title and to
all of this my wife was seven months be accepting of honest, critical
pregnant with our first child. The feedback. Everyone has something
second biggest risk was writing this to contribute, and you shouldnt be
paragraph knowing that at some afraid to acknowledge and focus on
point my wife will be reading it. your own weaknesses.
Anything of which youre particularly For what are you thankful? Im
proud? In my personal life, Ive thankful for a supportive, healthy
learned a whole new level of pride family. I cant imagine life without my
after having children, e.g., hearing wife and children. Im also thankful
their first words, seeing them take to be working in a profession that I
their first steps or watching them love. Ive truly enjoyed every position
graduate preschool. The feeling Ive held so far, and I encourage
of pride is unexplainable until you anyone who dislikes their job to
become a parent. In my professional keep searching. I dont think anyone
life, I take great pride working for should have to dread going to work
the Highway Patrol. Its an agency every day.
built on professionalism and integrity,
and Ive met some of the hardest What do you see yourself doing in 10
working and most competent years? I hope to be working for the
employees over the years. Highway Patrol, continuing to grow
as a leader with another decade of
What advice would you offer experience under my belt. I feel that
other young professionals? Ive Ive learned so much while serving
always felt that promotions do not in various leadership roles, and I will
automatically provide a person with continue to absorb as many positive
the knowledge and wisdom to make attributes as I can from those around
the right decisions, but Ive known me as time passes.
Congratulations Major Solberg,
on your selection to Forty Under 40 class of 2015!
The North Dakota Highway Patrol is accept-
ing applications for trooper positions through
August 26, 2015. The positions are located
statewide, with a majority of the positions in
western North Dakota. Salary is
$4,200 per month while in train-
ing and $4,464 per month after
completion of training.
For more information please visit:
www.nd.gov/ndhp/about-us/employment Major Brandon Solberg
40 Under 40 2015 Page 37
Harlan Stewart
The Christian church as a collective
body has really never made people
with special needs a priority for
ministry before, and Harlan Stewart
feels it is his mission to change that.
Age: 27
Position and company: Director of
Sunshine Pals, Ministry for Children
with Special Needs at Evangel
Family: My wife Andrea
Pastor Josh Skjoldal, for his leadership
in countless ways throughout our
many years of friendship
Pastor Aaron and Amy Strawn, for
pioneering and believing in the
mission and importance of Sunshine
Pals, as well as their teaching,
wisdom and friendship
Pastor Joe Stefalo, for being an
encouraging friend and always
believing in me

Hobbies: I enjoy frisbee golf, playing My cousin Matthew Mueller, for

board games with friends and teaching me to enjoy the simple
spending quality time with my wife things in life and believe in myself no
and dog. matter what

Community involvement: I teach Lastly my wife Andrea, whom

preschool full-time at Super Kids has always been my biggest
Junior Academy and volunteer in encouragement, best friend and
the Evangel Kids Ministry. biggest fan

Career path: Ive worked and Briefly, tell us about yourself: I am

volunteered with people with
special needs in many different
venues including Camp ReCreation
in Richardton and Elks Camp
Grassick in Dawson. I graduated
from the Evangel Leadership
Academy and am currently studying
to become a certified minister in the
Assembly of God church.
Mentors: My parents Merle and Kelly
Stewart have always been great
encouragers and supportive of all of
my endeavors. They taught me right
from wrong and have sacrificed
much in order for me to be able to
pursue my dreams. I cant thank
them enough.
My mother and father-in-law, Martin
and Marjorie Schock, have been
very loving, supportive and have
accepted me into their family, for
which I am grateful.
Dan Mimnaugh, director of Elks
Camp Grassick, has been a hero
to me for many years, and I cannot
thank him enough for his tutelage.
Pastor James Hessler has been an
incredible teacher that Im proud to
have been able to glean from.
a big kid and enjoy the simple
things life has to offer. I strive to be a
positive mentor to the kids I get to
be around on a weekly basis.
What motivates you? Seeing children
of all abilities worship and play
together and giving families the
piece of mind that their children are
accepted no matter their abilities.
Challenges in your career path:
A ministry for children and families
with special needs is a fairly new
thing. Sunshine Pals is one of the first
ministries in our area to welcome
children and families with special
needs. We strive to include the
children of Sunshine Pals in every
service and activity the whole group
is involved in.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? My wife and I are currently
pursuing the adoption of a little boy
with Down syndrome from Eastern
Europe. We have had an almost
yearlong process of paperwork,
fundraising, laughs, tears, tragedy
and triumph, but through it all it has
strengthened our faith in Christ and
love for Him. We hope to travel very
soon.
Submitted photo
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? I am so proud of the
volunteers that I work with in all
areas of Evangels Kids Ministry. Its
an absolute honor and privilege
to be working alongside them and
to be able to share Christs love
with children of all abilities across
Bismarck/Mandan.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Believe in
yourself and stay true to your values.
Dont worry so much about the next
step or get lost in the big picture.
Focus on what youre doing now,
and put all your passion and effort
behind it. Things will come out fine in
the end.
For what are you thankful?
Im thankful for the grace and
unconditional love of God in my
life, the love and dedication of my
wife as well as the rest of my family.
Im also thankful for all of my life
experiences, good or bad, and the
people who helped to shape and
mold me into the man I am today.
I wouldnt be where Im at without
them.
What do you see yourself doing in 10
years? I plan to be actively pursuing
whatever the Lord has put before
me with my wife and children and
continuing to minister to and care
for children and adults with special
needs and their families.

Page 38 40 Under 40 2015

Katie Stewart
Katie Stewart was the 2013 North
Dakota Dental Association New
Dentist of the Year and is now
the vice president of the NDDA.
She works with Donated Dental
Services in North Dakota for those
who cannot afford needed dental
treatment and have no other way of
getting help.
Age: 34
Position and company: Dentist
at Schindler and Stewart Family
Dentistry
Family: Husband and three
daughters
Hobbies: Golfing, boating, playing
games with family
Community involvement: Volunteer
for Junior Achievement, teach
church school, dental presentations
Career path: Graduated from dental
school in June 2007, joined Schindler
Family Dentistry. Partnered in January
2010, been operating as Schindler
and Stewart Family Dentistry since
Treat people fairly.
Always listen to others.
Show people you care.
Mentors: My partner Robert
Schindler and my parents
What motivates you? The ability to
help others
Challenges in your career path:
Keeping up with the technological
advances in dentistry. Balancing
family life and work
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? My husband and my three
daughters
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Treat people
fairly. Always listen to others. Show
people you care.
For what are you thankful? My family,
my business partner, my patients and
my staff
What do you see yourself doing in
10 years? Delivering dentistry in the
Bismarck community and being
involved in the activities my children Submitted photo
decide to participate in.
Congratulations, Dr. Stewart
on your recognition of
The Bismarck Tribunes
Forty Under 40
Class of 2015
Dr. Bob Schindler
Dr. Steve Deisz
and the staff at
Schindler & Stewart
Family Dentistry
210 W. Century Ave.
Bismarck
(701) 223-3694
40 Under 40 2015 Page 39
Theo Stoller
Since becoming CEO, Theo Stoller
has brought a whole new energy
to Jacobson Memorial Hospital
Care Center in Elgin. He is not afraid
to wear multiple hats, whether
its helping the maintenance
department or fixing computers.
Age: 29
Position and company: CEO of
Jacobson Memorial Hospital Care
Center
Family: I am married to Crystal Stoller
and have two children: Brooklyn,
who is 5 years old, and Easton, who is
18 months old.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time
on our family farm ranching and
hunting.
Community involvement: I serve on
the Elgin Lions Club, New Leipzig
City Council, EMT on New Leipzig
Ambulance Service, vice president
of Elgin Economic Betterment Club
and Mule Deer Foundation member.
Career path: I graduated from
Dickinson State with my bachelors of
science, majoring in human resource
management, and I accepted
a position at Jacobson Memorial
Hospital Care Center as the human
resources director in 2008. Around
two years ago, I was asked to
serve as the CEO, and I graciously
accepted.
Mentors: My professional mentors
would include Jim Opdahl, Brandon
Vaughan and Gary Miller. My
personal mentors would include
both sets of my parents: Bruce
and Genia Kasper and Myles and
Wanda Stoller. In addition, my
ambulance squad leader, Carrie
Roth.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I feel
that I am a hard working, dedicated
professional who is always willing to
learn new things. If I have stopped
learning, then I have stopped
Page 40 40 Under 40 2015
growing. In my career thus far, I have
learned many things, but some of
the principles that I have used are
to always do the right thing the right
way and remember why we are all
here. Basic common courtesy and
ethics can get us all a long way. In
my case, being in health care, we
always need to do what is best for
the patient.
What motivates you? Patient
satisfaction
Challenges in your career path:
Everyday is a new challenge; it is
how we grow from those challenges
and make those opportunities into
strengths.
Whats the biggest risk youve
ever taken? Serving as the CEO at
Jacobson Memorial Hospital Care
Center
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? I am sincerely proud to be a
part of Jacobson Memorial Hospital
Care Center. It brings a smile/ Submitted photo
tear to my eye when I know the
organization that I lead saves a life
or does something wonderful for the
communities we serve.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? With change
comes opportunity, and always be
THEO STOLLER
ethical and honest.
For what are you thankful? I am very
thankful for my supportive wife who
has allowed me to take the career
path I have chosen and supported Congratulations on your
me throughout. In addition, the selection to the Bismarck
rest of my family, and I could not
be doing what I do without the Tribunes Forty Under 40 class
leadership team at Jacobson of 2015!
Memorial Hospital Care Center
and the very supportive board of
directors. Your dedication, enthusiasm
and insight are inspiring.
What do you see yourself doing in
10 years? I would hope that I am still
serving my mission in health care to Thank you for all you do for
be serving patients. our hospital and communities.
601 East St. N.
Elgin, ND 58533
(701) 584-2792
Mike
Swenson
Mike Swenson is not only the owner
and operator of local business Juke
Joint Comics & More, he is also one
of the leading musicians in Bismarck/
Mandan.

Age: 35

Position and company: Owner of

Juke Joint Comics & More

Family: Youngest of six

Hobbies: Playing music, driving,

video games and watching bad
horror movies

Community involvement: I have

been involved with several different
organizations over the last six years,
mainly performing music to help
raise awareness for great causes
such as the AARC, Bismarck Cancer
Center, the Belle Project and AFSP. I
am currently on the board for Urban
Harvest, planning entertainment.
Career path: Graduated from
Bismarck High School in 1998, with
focus on art and music. Moved to
Dallas, TX in 1999. Originally worked
in computer repair and tech support
in a few different states, but ended
up working at Dennys as a server/
assistant manager in Bloomington,
Minn., until 2005. I then made the
decision to become self employed
as a full-time touring musician and
traveled as much as possible, until
coming back to Bismarck in 2009. I
had originally wanted to open an
acoustic cafe but ultimately made
the decision to open a comic book
store in 2012 after seeing Bismarcks
Submitted photo
need for a specialty shop. And
having 30 years of my personal
collection piling up in storage, I knew
it was time to start selling it.
Briefly, tell us about yourself:
Wanderer by nature, worker by
trade. Self employed, full-time kid.
What motivates you? The desire to
learn and face challenges every
day. Knowing that Im accomplishing
something that I set out to achieve.
Challenges in your career path: The
number one challenge for comic
book stores is financing, as banks
want nothing to do with volatile
comics or collectibles. We rely strictly
on our weekly sales and customer
base to keep the invoices paid.
Growing and moving forward will be
an uphill climb, but I think we have
some awesome support from our
community and will make it happen.
The other big challenge is exposure.
Kids today are far more interested in
their phones than a physical book in
their hands. The movies are certainly
helping our industry though, and I
believe there will always be a place
for printed comics.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? Going into business for myself
and not regretting it.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Being nominated and
presenting at the North Dakota
Music Awards last year was very
humbling.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Try your best
not to lose focus and pursue what
you love. Work around life and dont
live around work.
For what are you thankful? I am
thankful for my girlfriend for keeping
me on the ground. And for my
Mom helping me, even when she
shouldnt.
What do you see yourself doing in 10
years? If all goes well, retiring.

Try your best not to lose focus and pursue what you
love. Work around life and dont live around work.

40 Under 40 2015 Page 41

Stacey Thomas
As the former Miss North Dakota 2003,
Stacey Thomas spoke to students
across the state about peer pressure.
Today, she provides customer service
to those whom have experienced
water/fire damage.
Age: 32
Position and company: Client
Relations at Specialized Cleaning &
Restoration Inc.
Family: Shirley Thomas (mom),
Jerry and Judy Thomas (dad and
stepmom), Amber and Seth Sandness
(sister and brother-in-law), two
nephews and one niece
Hobbies: Running, softball, fitness
instructor, boating, golf, community
activities
Community involvement: Currently
serving as vice president of the
Young Professional Network and
will transition into president and
chairwoman over the three year
term. Also, I am the vice chair of
the American Red Cross board of
advisors and a member of Corpus
Christi Church.
Career path: Future second-
generation owner of our family
business with my sister and brother-
in-law
Mentors: This is going to sound very
clich, but I have to say my parents.
Now that I am older and watching
my sister and brother-in-law raise
their three kids, I see that being a
good parent and mentoring your
child takes a lot of love, time and
commitment. From a young age, my
parents taught me the importance
of hard work. They made sure they
didnt do the work for me, but rather
they always provided guidance and
inspired me along the way.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I
had my first job at age thirteen,
teaching dance to young students,
and I continued doing that until
I graduated from college. During
college, my studies focused on
going to dental school, but my life
took a turn when I became Miss
North Dakota 2003. From traveling all
across the state, competing at Miss
America and speaking to hundreds
of students and organizations, I had
a change in heart and dental school
Page 42 40 Under 40 2015
no longer interested me. I graduated
with a biology major/chemistry minor
and decided to take some time
off and traveled to Australia and
New Zealand on a work visa. Upon
returning (with little money left) my
dad offered me a job that I thought
would be temporary, but I dove in
and 10 years later I havent looked
back.
What motivates you? With studies
showing that less than 30 percent
of family businesses survive into the
second generation, I am motivated
to continue building our family
legacy.
Challenges in your career path:
Working in a male dominated
industry, I have felt two challenges
throughout my career: one being a
Submitted photo
woman and the other being young.
I have watched my mom attain
more could I ask for. company within our industry. I want to
success in her profession, and without
build upon our internal structure and
her knowing, she has set an example
What do you see yourself doing processes, in the hopes of helping a
of what it takes to be a respected
in 10 years? In 10 years, I see our potential third generation. Also, I like
woman in business. I made it a point
family business expanding its to travel so I would like to have a few
to educate myself and get several
operations across a larger territory more stamps in my passport.
industry certifications turning this
and continuing to grow as a trusted
challenge into an opportunity. I also
worked in the field to have firsthand
experience so I could help answer
questions and give guidance to
our staff and customers. People are
often surprised to hear I spent the first
couple years of my career working as
a technician in the field.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? Definitely the biggest risk was
stepping into the family business. This
journey has been filled with moments
The Guys in the Ugly Red Trucks!
of I cant that turned into we did.
To reap the reward you have to take Congratulations
the risk. We all celebrate in each
others victories as well as learn from
the defeats.
Stacey Thomas
Anything of which youre particularly
on being a 2015
proud? Being able to work in a 40 under 40 recipient!
family business and still being able sit
around the family table together
Joining fellow team members...
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Be honest! Amber & Seth Sandness
Whether you are dealing with a 2009 40 under 40 recipients
customer or an employee, always be
honest. In the long run, it will pay off
and your business will thrive, and at 701-258-3777
the end of the day, you will rest easier www.uglyredtrucks.com
too.
Family Owned & Operated since 1992
For what are you thankful? The health
of my family and loved ones what
Dante
Tomassoni
Dante Tomassoni has represented
clients in the Bakken; Three Forks,
Mont.; and across the Rocky
Mountains. Oil and gas companies
entrust him with the most complex
and high-stakes cases in state
and federal courts and regulatory
agencies.
Age: 33
Position and company: Associate
Attorney at Stinson Leonard Street
LLP
Family: Parents, David and Charlotte
Tomassoni; brother, Danny Tomassoni;
sister, Chauntell Clemmer; dog, Zeus
Hobbies: Hockey, softball, hunting
and golf
Community involvement: Volunteer
youth hockey coach; the local
Make-A-Wish Foundation; and the St.
Alexius annual fundraiser.
Additionally, Im involved in many
professional organizations: Rocky
Mountain Mineral Law Foundation,
North Dakota Petroleum Council,
Landmans Association of North
Dakota, Colorado Oil and Gas
Association, American Association
of Petroleum Landmen, State
Bar Association of North Dakota,
American Bar Association Natural
Resources Section, Big Muddy Bar
Association, Denver Association of
Oil and Gas Attorneys, Federal Bar
Association North Dakota Chapter,
President, Bismarck-Mandan
Chamber of Commerce, Greater
North Dakota Chamber
Mentors: James Bertrand, Rob
Forward, Matt Salzman (attorneys at
Stinson Leonard Street LLP)
Briefly, tell us about yourself: Im an
oil and gas attorney in Bismarck
working for Stinson Leonard Street LLP.
Our firm has over 500 lawyers and
offices in 14 cities. Rob Forward and
I help manage the Bismarck office.
Ive been in North Dakota since
2005, when I started at the UND Law
School, and have enjoyed all my
10 years in the state. In undergrad,
I majored in economics and
played hockey and baseball at St.
Scholastica in
Duluth, Minn.
What motivates
you? You
are only as
good as your
last shift. Its
a hockey
saying my dad
used to use.
Always strive
to improve,
and never get
complacent.
Challenges in
your career
path: Our
office and
practice in
oil and gas
at Stinson
Leonard Street
is fairly new.
It has been
an exciting
challenge
to help start
an office
and grow
the practice
over the last
three years
with the firm.
Watching all
that hard work
start to pay Submitted photo
off has been
a rewarding around you with respect and Corrina Pfaff and Jamie Orstad. They
experience. generosity; it will come back to you. are amazing and do very good work
for our firm. We are lucky to have
Whats the biggest risk youve ever For what are you thankful? Im very them.
taken? In 2014, I ran with the bulls thankful for the opportunities Ive
in Pamplona, Spain. I made it out in been blessed with. The Big Guy What do you see yourself doing in
one piece, and it is a day I will never upstairs has been pretty good to 10 years? In 10 years, I hope to have
forget. me. I just hope I take advantage of grown my legal practice significantly.
opportunity when it comes along. I strive to become an expert in my
Anything of which youre particularly Im also grateful I had a good field and use that experience to
proud? My first big wins came as a upbringing by a Father who always give my clients the representation
series of 26 North Dakota Industrial taught me to work hard. Also, the they deserve.
Commission cases we went 26-0 on. I friends and family I have in my life
was lead attorney on the cases, and that instilled good values in me. I would also like to be able to
it was a good result for the client. Im also thankful to those who find more time to get involved in
What advice would you offer other helped me along the way (they community and charitable events.
young professionals? The old clichs know who they are) and made sure Hopefully, Im still playing hockey
are still repeated for a reason. Work I worked hard and stayed focused in and staying active. I also want to
hard, take advantage of opportunity North Dakota. continue to visit my familys lake
and take every set-back as a lesson, cabin in Minnesota and find time to
not as defeat. And treat everyone And the staff we have in the office, see the world.
40 Under 40 2015 Page 43
Erin Wanner
Erin Wanner is a full-time land
professional in Dickinson, the only
one for the region and the only
female for Whiting Oil and Gas
Corporation.
Age: 36
Position and company: Landman at
Whiting Oil and Gas Corporation
- Owner Operator at Boomers
Boarding, LLC
- Assistant Girls Basketball Coach at
Dickinson High School
Hobbies: Rodeo
Community involvement: As an
avid and active animal lover, I have
a special place in my heart for
homeless animals. Oreos Animal
Rescue is a proactive pet shelter in
Dickinson, where I dedicate time
and financial support to rehoming
abandoned pets. I am also involved
in aiding the organization of the ND
Petroleum Council annual Bakken
Rocks BBQs, where the NDPC
provides outreach and education to
the general community with a large,
WHITING OIL AND GAS
Leading the Way
as a Top Producer in North Dakota
Congratulations Erin Wanner on
your 40 Under 40 Award!
From Your Family at WOG
WHITING OIL AND GAS NORTH DAKOTA
Dickinson | Belfield | New Town | Watford City | Williston
701.456.5410 | 701.627.2750 | 701.842.6795 | 701.774.1912
Page 44 40 Under 40 2015
outdoor picnic feel.
Mentors: My dad. His incredible
work ethic is something that I grew
up admiring. Additionally, he was a
great role model for treating people
with respect and never sacrificing
his values for achievement.
Those characteristics have been
something Ive chosen to emulate,
which has made him an invaluable
mentor throughout my life.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: At work
or play, Im an ambitious person. I
recognize the sacrifices it takes to be
successful, and even in my hobbies, I
strive for success. I spend most of my
free time rodeoing and coaching
basketball, which are great ways to
stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
What motivates you? Competition
and strategy are my motivators. High
personal expectations for myself, my
business and my hobbies create an
environment in which I thrive.
Challenges in your career path: As a
confident and competent woman,
it is hard to admit that the
stereotype of women in the
work place is a challenge.
Young, professional females
need to overcome the
negative perception in order
to succeed.
Whats the biggest risk youve
ever taken? I moved to
Texas right after graduate
school because there were
no job opportunities in N.D.
I learned a lot of life lessons
in that move, but it made
me appreciate all the
opportunities available in N.D.
now.
Anything of which youre
particularly proud? I feel
proud of the fact that I am Submitted photo
able to have a successful
career, business and still balance young professionals? If there is
time for the things I love, like something you want, then ask for it
coaching and rodeo. It takes a and be prepared to work for it.
ton of support from my friends and
family, but it means the world to me. For what are you thankful?
Having the support of my family in
What advice would you offer other everything I do.
Lee Weisbeck
Lee Weisbeck has helped Starion
Financials Mandan branch become one
of the fastest growing locations.
Age: 32
Position and company: Mandan Market
President at Starion Financial
Family: Wife Anne, kids Ambry and Hayva
Hobbies: In my spare time, I enjoy playing
golf, basketball and football, hunting and
doing construction work
Community involvement: Bismarck-Mandan
Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee,
North Dakota Bankers Association Ag
Committee, University of Mary Alumni
Committee and Mandan Economic
Opportunity & Prosperity Committee.
Career path: Wells Fargo
2005-2006 Credit Manager, 2006-2007 Small
Business Lender
Starion Financial
2007-2009 Business Banker, 2009-2011 AVP
Business Banking, 2011-2013 VP Business
Banking, 2013-2014 SVP Business Banking,
2015-present Mandan Market President
Mentors: My parents, Ernie and Debra
Weisbeck, and Jay Feil (who is currently
Bismarck Market President for Starion) have
each in their own way taught me the
importance of working hard and the value
of treating everyone with respect. Every
day, I strive to live out these values and set
an example for my Starion team and my
children.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I grew up on
our family farm north of Herreid, S.D., where
we raised dairy, hog, beef and crops. That is
where I first learned the value of hard work.
I attended college at the University of Mary
in Bismarck where I majored in business
administration with a concentration in
management. I played football and ran
track for the Marauders. I graduated with
a bachelor of science and a minor in
both computer information systems and
theology. While attending college, I earned
my insurance license to sell life, health
and disability insurance for Life Investors
insurance company.
After college I took a job with Wells Fargo
Financial as a credit manager in Bismarck.
A year later, I transferred to Plymouth, Minn.,
as an assistant store manager. My wife and
I both missed North Dakota so we moved
back to Bismarck, and I started working for
Wells Fargo Bank as a small business lender.
In July 2007, I started with Starion Financial
as a business banker in Mandan. Over the
next seven years, I worked in the business
banking department and was fortunate to
be able to participate for three years in the
Graduate School of Banking at Colorado,
graduating with honors. This schooling gave
me the tools to understand the big picture
of how a bank operates on a daily basis.
On January 1, I was promoted to Mandan
market president.
What motivates you? I am competitive by
nature and want to do well in anything I
am involved in. Being competitive and hard
working has given me the motivation to
succeed in banking and make a difference
in my community. Also, being a good role
model for my kids is a major motivator.
Challenges in your career path: I started my
banking career when I was 22 years old. As
a young banker, I had to work hard to gain
the trust of my co-workers and customers,
and it took some time. But proving myself
through hard work, honesty and integrity, I
gained their trust and respect.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever taken?
The biggest risk Ive ever taken was when,
at 23 years of age and newly married, my
wife and I moved to Plymouth, Minn., for my
job promotion. It was a big move for a small
town kid from Herreid, S.D.! Not to mention it
was scary to not know if I would like my new
community or my future with the company.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? Being named the Rookie of the
Year for Wells Fargo Financial, graduating
with honors from the Graduate School of
Banking in Colorado and being named
market president for Starion Financial.
What advice would you offer other young
professionals? Regardless of what you do,
you should demonstrate hard work each
day, treat all people with respect no matter
their position and be an active member of
your community. You dont have to lead the
charge, but dont be afraid to get involved.
Submitted photo
You will feel gratification from your actions.
For what are you thankful? First and
foremost my beautiful wife and two
daughters. Anne holds the house together
so that I can succeed professionally and
provide for our family.
I am also grateful for my wonderful co-
workers at the bank they truly are great
people with good hearts and are the
engine that drives the bank.
Finally, I am thankful for all the customers
and their families I have gotten to know
over the years. They are like family to me.
What do you see yourself doing in 10
years? I believe Bismarck-Mandan has
a bright future, and I look forward to
being part of that. I envision continuing
my banking career, providing customers
with great customer service and helping
them grow their businesses into the future.
I will also be providing leadership in the
Bismarck-Mandan communities by serving
on various boards and committees.
40 Under 40 2015 Page 45
Jessica Weisz
Consistent with her personal goals,
Jessica Weiszs professional goals as
a business leader include being a
community role model that women
of all ages can look up to and
recognize the opportunities and
choices available to them.
Age: 34
Position and Company: Financial
Advisor for Edward Jones
Family: I am married to Shannon
Weisz, a psychologist at Chambers
and Blohm Psychological Services,
PC. Together, we share two fabulous
boys: Peyton, who is 8 years old, and
baby Chase, who is 8 months old.
Hobbies: One of my favorite things
to do is cook. I adore getting
together with friends and family over
a great meal. Other hobbies of mine
are camping, boating, watching
movies, listening to music, reading
and skiing. I like to do pretty much
anything. I find life very exciting.
and objective advice you can trust.
Mentors: My husband would be my
biggest mentor. He taught me if you
want it and you work hard enough,
anything is possible. A couple
colleagues of mine, Matt Odenbach
and Jason Brostrom, are also huge
mentors. Matt encouraged me to
pursue my career as a financial
advisor. He believed in me from day
one, and Jason graciously allowed
me to use his conference room
when I couldnt afford an office.
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I
graduated from Bismarck High
School in 1999 and completed
culinary school in 2001. I would
describe myself as being very
passionate about our community,
our children and our earth. I am very
methodical, and I want to make a
difference in peoples lives. Being
a financial advisor gives me the
ability to do just that by helping my
clients achieve goals that they never
thought possible.

Community involvement: On a daily What motivates you? To be honest,

basis, you will find me helping guide
my clients through the chaos of the
financial markets, volunteering my
time around the city and educating
individuals in the Bismarck-Mandan
area hoping to help strengthen their
financial decisions. Currently I am
an ambassador for the Chamber
of Commerce, a member of the
Downtowners and active participant
in the Womens Health Summit
and the Women Entrepreneurs of
Bismarck-Mandan.
Career path: I started with Edward
Jones in 2006 as an assistant to
a financial advisor. In 2010, my
husband, our son Peyton, dog Penny
Lane and our cat Socks all moved
into my dads house while I studied
for my licensing exams. I became
a licensed financial advisor on Oct.
4, 2010. I established and currently
run the Edward Jones office in
the Civic Square building on Main
Street in Bismarck. I have received
many awards from Edward Jones
in my tenure, including the Zeke
McIntyre Pioneer Award, Ted Jones
Prospecting Award and the Eagle
Award. Currently, I hold Series 7, Series
66, Insurance and Long-Term Care
licenses. My claim to fame when
running my business is great service
Page 46 40 Under 40 2015
my 8-year-old son motivates me the
most. I want to be a role model that
he can look up to. I also like to be a
role model for young women in our
community. I want them to know
that you can do and be whatever
you choose. Knowing that I am
making a difference in peoples lives
is motivating for me.
Challenges in your career path:
My biggest challenge is my young
age and being a female in a
predominately male industry. There
is a typical picture of a financial
advisor, and I am vastly different from
that picture.
Whats the biggest risk youve ever
taken? Starting a business from
the ground up. It takes a lot to get
up every day and push through
the rejection. You have to put
yourself out there, and that can get
challenging at times if you have a
soft heart.
Anything of which youre particularly
proud? My family, my clients, my firm
and how hard I work with all of them
in order to be successful.
What advice would you offer other
young professionals? Be true to
Submitted photo
yourself, start your day with a smile,
have a positive attitude and be
open minded, laugh (even at
yourself) and never give up on what
you believe in. My biggest
For what are you thankful? I am challenge is my
thankful for everything but mostly
so thankful to my parents. When young age and
you have children of your own, you
realize just how much someone
being a female in
cared for you when you couldnt. A a predominately
mother and father are pretty close
to the only people who will get up male industry. There
every hour and feed you your first
days of your life (with a smile), and to
is a typical picture
that, I am eternally grateful. of a financial
What do you see yourself doing in advisor, and I am
10 years? Wow, 10 years forward
thinking, I see my husband and me
vastly different from
sending our first son off to college that picture.
and life. I see the business thriving
and Bismarck still the best place to
raise children.
Shannon Weisz
Dr. Shannon Weisz has dedicated
most of his adult life to helping
individuals with both mental health
and substance use concerns.
Age: 35
Position and company: Psychologist
and Addiction Counselor at
Chambers and Blohm Psychological
Services, PC
Family: I am married to my beautiful
wife, Jessica; we have been
together for the past 16 years. We
have two sons: Peyton (8) and
Chase (8 months). We also have
a dog named Bella, a cat named
Moe and a fish named Dorito.
Hobbies: I love camping, being
around any form of water (e.g., river,
ocean, lakes, etc.), reading, frisbee
golfing, downhill skiing and playing
drums.
Community involvement: One of the
most rewarding parts of my job as a
psychologist is doing outreach work
where often a colleague of mine (Dr.
Bob Johnson) and I go out to various
community programs and present
on a variety of topics such as
enhancing coping skills, educating
about different mental health
conditions, etc. Also, for the past
four years, I have been a consultant
for West River Head Start where I
have the opportunity to spend time
with the children involved in those
programs and help teach them
ways to effectively manage how
they feel. Last year, I also had the
pleasure of helping the University of
Mary develop an alcohol awareness
program to educate students about
the dangers of binge drinking and
how to use alcohol in a responsible
manner. Finally, I have spent the past
five years engaging in outreach
work in Ft. Yates, ND, at the Standing
Rock Treatment Program.
Career path: Believe it or not, I
developed my dream of becoming
a psychologist during high school.
I took my first psychology class at
Century High School and elected
to take an AP psychology class in
my senior year, which prompted
me to double major in psychology
and sociology at North Dakota
State University. I then completed
my masters degree in counseling at
the University of North Dakota and
my doctorate in clinical psychology
from the Minnesota School of
Professional Psychology. I started out
my career solely as an addiction
counselor but soon realized that
I needed more training in mental
health work in order to be more
effective in terms of addressing dual
diagnosis issues (i.e., mental health
conditions and substance use issues
occurring at the same time). I ended
up returning to the Bismarck area to
complete my pre-doctoral internship
on the Standing Rock Reservation.
One of my minor rotations was at
Chambers and Blohm, and this is
how I came to be at my present
position. Since being at Chambers
and Blohm, I have provided multiple
treatment services in a variety
of contexts, and I specialize in
psychological evaluation and a
variety of therapy services. Also, I
have been involved in program
development and am proud of
having developed our substance
abuse program, of which I am the
director.
Mentors: Sean Reardon, PhD, is one
of the most influential individuals
in my life. He was my academic
advisor and the chair of my
dissertation. He taught me how to be
myself within the constraints of being Submitted photo
a professional. Also, I would name my
wife, family and friends. attending to my family, working and Anything of which youre particularly
at the same time trying to enjoy proud? My choice in a life partner,
Briefly, tell us about yourself: I would life as much as possible. I cannot the children we share and
describe myself as a guy who likes to emphasize how many times I felt completing my doctorate.
joke around and laugh. I think that overwhelmed with things and
laughter is a key to being happy. considered giving up, but one thing What advice would you offer other
I care deeply about my family, I knew was, like so many things in life, young professionals? One has to set
and I would say that I am an easy it was time-limited. I think sometimes goals in order to know where one is
person to get along with. I like being it feels like we take on more than we going. I believe success is driven by
around people, but when I am can handle, but if you keep putting the goals we set for ourselves. Do
done working, I like to live a low-key one foot in front of the other, you not be afraid of setting the goals
lifestyle. will eventually get where you are high because it always gives us
heading. something to strive for.
What motivates you? I would say
what motivates me are goals, Whats the biggest risk youve ever For what are you thankful? For life! I
happiness and enjoying life. These taken? The biggest risk that I took believe there are so many things to
things are what have helped me was when I decided to pursue my be thankful for, but I would say my
to get to where I am currently. I doctorate. My wife and I decided family and friends, health and good
still have a ways to go in terms of to move to the Minneapolis/St. Paul fortune!
achieving some of these things, but area with a newborn at home, and
life is always a work in progress. we had no support system in that What do you see yourself doing in 10
area. It was difficult transitioning from years? I plan on continuing to work
Challenges in your career path: I being just a husband to being a in the mental health field. I envision
guess the most challenging part father, student, husband and all the myself remaining at Chambers and
of my career path would have other roles that I needed to play. It Blohm because to be honest I
been attempting to juggle going to was a lot of stress and pressure on have a sweet gig going on here!
college for approximately 11 years, both my wife and me.
40 Under 40 2015 Page 47
 9 10 OUT OF

90.5% of Bismarck-Mandan adults 18 and older rely on The Bismarck

Tribune, in print or online, for news and information every week!*

More people turn to The Bismarck Tribune

than any other media source.

For marketing opportunites,

contact one of our sales
professionals today!
223-2500
The Bismarck Tribune - the regions news and information leader.

*Reach within 7 day period. January 2015 Pulse Research.

Page 48 40 Under 40 2015