40 Under Forty 2015 by Billings Gazette

BEST AND BRIGHTEST

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the editor

T hanks , B illings ,

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for helping us select our

40 Under Forty is produced by the staff of Billings Business, a specialty publication of Billings Gazette Publications

mike gulledge tom howard COPY EDITOR chris jorgensen GENERAL MANAGER allyn hulteng PUBLISHER

editor

40 U nder F orty winners

SALES

dave worstell ryan brosseau RETAIL Sales manager shelli scott ADVERTISING Sales gail ball advertising Coordinator linsay duty

Sales & Marketing Director Classified Manager/online manager

Thank you, Billings, for your assistance in identifying some of the community’s best and brightest. This year, more than 300 people were nominated for the annual 40 Under Forty awards. That’s by far the largest pool of nominees we have seen in the publication’s 13-year history. In case you were wondering why so many people were nominated this year, technology played an important role. Our technology gurus at The Billings Gazette used email blasts and social media as part of a successful strategy to boost nominations. Such widespread interest clearly illustrates a loyal following for a special section that profiles some of the Billings area’s top young professionals. With such a big pool from which to select, it also presented a significant challenge to those tasked with selecting the winners. It’s always sad to think that scores of bright, capable people weren’t selected. But what if you or a friend of yours wasn’t selected? By all means, think about entering again next year, unless, of course, your 40th birthday arrives before Feb. 1, 2016.

I hope you enjoy reading about our winners. It’s always fun getting to know these smart, talented, passionate and hardworking individuals who come from many walks of life and have followed different paths to success. Through the years, numerous siblings and husband-and-wife teams have been featured in 40 Under Forty. But this year marks the first time in which the child of a previous winner has been selected. Chance Robinson, 19, is the son of Stacey Robinson, a winner from 2004. The younger Robinson is a talented artist whose works have been well-received in the arts community. Achievement appears to be a family trait. This year’s winners are especially community minded, which comes as no surprise. Mark Goldy, a physical therapist and athletic trainer, enjoys volunteering at McKinley Elementary and raising money for Special Olympics and several other groups. Not only does Kevin Fichtner coach youth sports, he has donated many hours through his work with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Heights Exchange Club. Then there’s Shannon Peterson of CTA Architects Engineers, who listed 16 organizations for which she has contributed time and money. That’s downright impressive.

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SUBSCRIPTIOnS Billings Business is mailed each month to area business owners, managers and decision makers. To subscribe for $19.95 per year, please send payment, name, business name, mailing address and phone number to: Billings Business 401 North Broadway Billings, MT 59101 Advertising For retail advertising call Gail Ball 657-1284. For classified advertising, call 657-1212. You may send material to ads@billingsbusiness.com or FAX to 657-1538. Advertising deadline for the March 2015 issue is 5 p.m. Feb. 3. News If you would like to submit a news tip, story idea, announcement about your business or press release, please e-mail it to: editor@billingsbusiness.com website: www.billingsbusiness.com Information published herein does not reflect the opinion of Billings Business. Contents are the property of Billings Business.

Some statistics regarding this year’s 40 Under Forty winners

34.8

Average age, with ages ranging from 19 to 39 2

I February 2015

Own part or all of a business

Have at least one tattoo

Have at least one child

Currently married

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And the winners are... Kevin Adkins...................................... 4 Molly Bell......................................... 4 Rachel Christoferson................... 5 Jennell Duey..................................... 6 Jessica Fehr...................................... 7 Tanya Ferber..................................... 8 Kira Fercho....................................... 9 Kevin Fichtner................................ 10 Aaron Flint...................................... 10 Mark Goldy..................................... 11 Danielle Hughes............................ 12 Dena Johnson................................. 12 Jeff Kitchens.................................. 13 Tom Mahlen..................................... 14 Ross McClinden.............................. 14 Barry McKenzie.............................. 15 Kelly Melius.................................... 16 Justin Millet................................... 16 Colt Moedl...................................... 17 Ty Nelson......................................... 18

Kari Parker..................................... 18 Shannon Peterson........................ 19 Darren Rich..................................... 20 Matt Robertson............................. 20 Chance Robinson........................... 21 Dawn Rollinger.............................. 22 Darrick Rose................................... 22 Jeff Rosenberry............................ 23 Heather Sather.............................. 24 Joshuwa Sayer................................ 24 Kelsie Schreiner............................ 25 Ryan Schwanke............................... 26 Dax Simek......................................... 26 Laurie Smith.................................... 27 Robbie Smith.................................... 28 Jessica Sprattler......................... 28 Martha Stahl.................................. 29 Tina Stinson..................................... 30 Carrie Wright................................. 30 John Wright.................................... 31

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Past winners

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Where they are now Here’s what some previous 40 Under Forty winners have been doing: Carrie La Seur’s first novel, “The Home Place,” was published in 2014 by William Morrow. Billings is the setting for this mystery thriller by La Seur, a Billings attorney and a 2010 winner. She is working on her second novel, with plans to publish it by the end of 2015. La Seur worked on “The Home Place” for 10 years before finally starting to market it to agents in 2012. Time management remains her biggest challenge when balancing a career, family and writing. Even setting aside a few minutes a day to write can pay dividends down the road, La Seur said. Nash Emrich, a 2013 winner, left Billings last spring and is now a senior sustainability analyst at Paladino and Co. in the Washington, D.C., area. Paladino is a green-building and sustainability

consulting firm that includes architects and engineers, and has been instrumental in the development of the LEED Green Building Rating System. In Billings, Emrich was an architect at High Plains Architects. As BikeNet president, he was active in the development of the local trail system. Jonathan McNiven, a 2014 winner, was elected to a second term in the Montana House of Representatives last fall, but resigned just two weeks later to focus on running Yellowstone County News, which he and his wife, Tana, purchased in 2014. Tom Richmond was named to replace McNiven in the Legislature. Both are Republicans. McNiven is no stranger to publishing. Prior to purchasing Yellowstone County News, he developed the website www.huntleyproject.net, to create a forum to promote community events

and local businesses. Keith Lauver, a 2009 winner, relaunched his Red Lodge-based healthy food business a couple years ago. His previous company was known as The Healthy Pantry. He was in the process of shutting that company down when he received interest from buyers at Safeway. With help from new financing, Lauver launched Cooksimple, whose products are being distributed in about 5,700 stores in all 50 states, as well as Canada and Australia. Last year he did a 32-state tour promoting his healthy meal-in-a-box products. Bryan Layton, owner of Great Harvest Bread Co. and a 2014 winner, announced recently that he’s opening a second location at 32nd Street West and Central Avenue. Previously, Great Harvest, a made-from-scratch bakery at 907 Poly Drive, expanded and took over the space formerly occupied by Poet Street Market.

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February 2015

Kevin Adkins senior vice president, American Welding and Gas Inc. Perhaps you need some welding done. Maybe you’re undergoing a medical or dental procedure. Or maybe you’re simply ordering a fountain drink at your local convenience store. In all these cases there’s a pretty good chance that American Welding and Gas Inc. was involved in the transaction. “Our customers include metal fabrication shops, hospitals, veterinary clinics and anybody who is pouring a beer or a pop,” said Kevin Adkins, who is a senior vice president for the company. “The refineries and even people who use helium for balloons are our customers.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I was afforded great opportunities by the people I have worked for in this company. That started with joining Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK our internal management training Kevin Adkins, senior vice president at American Welding and Gas Inc., program right out of MSU Billings. It says the company’s diverse client base is part of its strength. was a college job up to that point. The

Age: 38 Family: Married, three children First paid job: Dishwasher at Castle Rock Middle School What I’m reading: “Stone Cold” by C.J. Box Liked this movie: “Silver Linings Playbook” Biggest passion outside of work: Family

company has continued to give me new and challenging positions and responsibilities. They have always given the right amount of autonomy and support to allow for success in the positions. A huge amount of thanks and credit goes to those who took a chance on me. In turn, I’ve worked hard, entrenched myself in the business, and taken its success very seriously. If you take a company’s success seriously, it returns the favor. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? It’s really two. 1. Keeping up and evolving with the changing needs of our customers. It is fundamentally important

and I believe it’s the key to survival of any business. 2. Maintaining an environment that recruits and retains the right employees. An environment that breeds employee success is the biggest factor in our contribution to customer success. What’s the best business advice you have received? Work smarter, not harder. Who gave you that advice? Dad. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I’m not yet sure how to do it, but I need to find a way to contribute to keeping our youth (beyond my own children) on a path that steers them clear of

the trappings of substance abuse. For their health and success, and our community’s, we have to improve this situation. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? The safety and success of the people who work with and for me is very important. If they are healthy, safe, successful, happy, and fulfilled in their jobs, I feel the same way. Most of the time, that solves the profit and loss. Which living person do you most admire? My wife. I always think of my job as challenging but it doesn’t compare to the job she does raising our three children and running our household. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Helping my wife raise three healthy, happy children. I’m happiest when I’m… Camping.

Molly Bell principal, Hilltop Public Solutions Many recent college graduates catch the travel bug. But instead of grabbing a backpack and buying a Eurail pass, Molly Bell decided to take advantage of a college program that allowed her to spend a year in China teaching English. At China’s Suzhou University, which is a little less than 100 miles west of Shanghai, Bell taught English to Chinese undergraduates, Chinese graduate students and Koreans who were studying abroad. “The Chinese students were very good, and so were the Koreans. The graduate students were pretty sophisticated,” Bell said. One of her favorite parts of the experience was teaching English to Chinese kindergartners. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: Ever since I can remember, I’ve always been interested in politics. It is wonderful that we live in a country I February 2015 4

where we can have a say in our government and participate in the political process, and my parents taught me to never take that for granted. In 2008, I moved back to Billings after teaching in China for a year and got my first paid job in politics as a grassroots organizer for the Healthy Montana Kids ballot initiative campaign to expand children’s health care in Montana. Being a part of a campaign that resulted in a measurable and tangible effect on the lives of thousands of kids in Montana and realizing that you can make a difference through the process really got me hooked on politics. After that, I attended graduate school where I studied public policy as well as political philosophy. I then worked for a nonprofit called Change that Works that organized around social justice issues in Montana. My boss, Barrett Kaiser,

Age: 30 Family: Single First paid job: Cashier, Scheels What I’m reading: “The Home Place” by Carrie Le Seur Liked this movie: “Lost in Translation” Biggest passion outside of work: Increasing voter turnout

brought me on as an associate when he opened our Montana office in 2010. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Helping people understand that there is science in political science. What’s the best business advice you have received? “If you’re explaining, you’re losing.” Who gave you that advice? I’ve heard it from a lot of people but I think it is actually a quote from Ronald Reagan. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I think it is important that more people

become engaged in politics on the local level. Many of the decisions made on the local and state level have an extraordinary effect on our day to day lives but because local politics isn’t as “flashy,” I don’t think people really pay much attention to what is going on sometimes. I would love to see more city planning policies in Billings that encourage walking, biking, and public transportation. I really admire the work that BikeNet does. I also appreciate the work that the Billings Library Foundation and the Billings Symphony do to promote

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Molly Bell taught English in China after graduating from college.

the arts. Also, I wish we had a Korean BBQ (if there is one I don’t know about, let me know). Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Some of our work is electorally based, so oftentimes we are working toward winning an election. Each client has different goals though, which can also include achieving a policy objective or just raising awareness around an issue. I think working with clients to identify their objectives and make progress toward those

goals in a tangible way is success for me. Which living person do you most admire? My parents. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Hard to say, but I really did enjoy running the campaign to build a new library in Billings with our campaign co-chairs, Suzanne McKiernan and Evelyn Noennig. I’m happiest when I’m… Spending time with people I care about like my boyfriend, Brock, and my family and friends. Billingsbusiness

Rachel Christoferson president, Rachel Christoferson CPA PC In her accounting business, Rachel Christoferson files returns for individuals, small businesses and a variety of nonprofit organizations. “Working with the nonprofits is the most fun by far,” said Christoferson, ower of Rachel Christoferson CPA PC. “You can see exactly how Billings and Yellowstone County benefit from an organization.” Like other CPAs, Christoferson spends quite a bit of time preparing for the inevitable changes in the nation’s vast, complicated tax laws. She regularly participates in continuing professional education training. “If you had all the time in the world you could spend it learning about the laws,” Christoferson said, noting that Congress made big changes to the tax code at the end of 2014. Christoferson showed an interest in numbers at an early age. She remembers being fascinated with the concept of depreciation. “I got exposed to a lot when I was young,” she said. “I watched my parents spend weeks working on their personal tax return.” Most professionals describe the tax preparation season as a marathon. Some accounting firms are known to throw big parties when the last return has been filed. Christoferson said she enjoys taking a little time off. “I’ll just go fishing,” she said. “It’s always a little too soon to go camping.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: My first true career was as a licensed U.S. Customs Broker in Sweetgrass. When it became time to return to college

and finish up my degree, I knew that I needed to choose a career that had opportunities in any town in Montana. My clearest options were either a teacher or an accountant. I had always loved numbers and calculations and I doubt I would make a good teacher. I completed two internships for a small CPA firm while completing my degree and after a short stint with a local CPA firm. I ended up working at Eide Bailly for several years. Eide Bailly was a phenomenal CPA firm to work for, but the need for balance between my family and work was difficult although they did go above and beyond to accommodate working parents. I incorporated my own firm late in 2011 and it has been steadily growing ever since. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Finding staff that are qualified and have an interest in working. What’s the best business advice you have received? If you do what you love, you will succeed. Who gave you that advice? Nick Cladis Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Currently there is not a public playground nor a community center in Shepherd. The Shepherd Senior Citizens, Shepherd Lions Club, and Shepherd Community Center are all working very hard to make one a reality. I would like to continue to help as much as I am able to as needed to have this available to the Shepherd community as a whole. In the last few years, the land set aside by the Shepherd Community Center has gotten grass, trees, sprinklers, a vol-

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Rachel Christoferson was a licensed customs broker before she became a CPA.

Age: 39 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Summer hay crew What I’m reading: Smut novels are fabulous reading as they require very little brain activity and the break from reality is both amusing and restful. Liked this movie: “Armageddon” Biggest passion outside of work: Camping

leyball area, a horseshoe pit, and a picnic pavilion. Amazing progress has been made, but much more community involvement and volunteer time is needed to make the complete plan a reality. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? When I know that I have helped someone, be it as simple as calculating the tax savings available for setting up a Health Savings Account that has been available to someone for years but they have never taken advantage of it, or a more in-depth discussion of best practices and policies for a board of directors for a small nonprofit. Which living person do you most admire? My parents. They

managed to raise six children in a healthy, happy home while starting and operating a cattle ranch and eventually starting and operating an agricultural supply store as well. They still operate the ranch and the store. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising two happy, healthy little boys to be active participants in their community. It is of course still a work in progress. I’m happiest when I’m… camping. Anything outside is fabulous, but camping, fishing, hunting, and gardening are my favorites. Fishing would be my very favorite activity if I had better luck catching the little buggers.

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February 2015

Jennell Duey MD, family physician, Billings Clinic Jennell Duey, a family physician at Billings Clinic, says it’s inevitable that her patients start to feel a little bit like family. “What I love about this specialty is you get to take care of the whole family. I love the variety. I love being part of people’s families,” Duey said. “I enjoy seeing my patients in the community,” she said. “I’ve been there so many times when I have seen babies taking their first breath, and when people have taken their last. I enjoy seeing life from beginning to end. It’s a privilege and it’s an honor to be part of people’s lives like that.” Duey never felt at a disadvantage growing up in rural Montana with a father who is a rancher and a mother who is a schoolteacher. Like many other farm and ranch kids, she raised 4-H steers to help pay for college. “My parents taught us how to work hard early on,” she said. “School was a means to an end, and we never shied away from the hard-work aspect of it.” Growing up, she became interested in careers that involve helping people. “I thought a little bit about nursing. But then I thought, no, I want to be a

Age: 39 Family: Married, three children First paid job: Raising 4-H steers to help pay for college What I’m reading: “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Condo. Liked this movie: “Hoosiers” Biggest passion outside of work: My family, running and outdoor activities

doctor instead.” Initially, she envisioned becoming a small-town doctor, and throughout her training she never veered from that goal. Practicing in Billings suits her, she said. Some who have aspirations of medical careers are discouraged by the considerable academic rigors. That wasn’t an issue for Duey. “For some people, having to be in school until you’re almost 30 before you have a real job can be kind of daunting,” she said. “I just took it step by step. I enjoyed the education.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I knew from the time I was in high school that I wanted to be a doctor. I attended Luther College for four years, then four years of medical school at the University of

Iowa and three years of residency here in Billings. I started with Billings Clinic in 2006 and have worked hard to build a practice doing what I love — taking care of families. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? There is a constant challenge in medicine to keep up, to keep learning, to improve your skills and to be a better physician. Your patients’ lives depend on it. I also take my patients very much to heart and sometimes it’s hard not to bring that stress home. What is the best business advice you have received? Work hard and do your work with a happy heart. Who gave you this advice? My mom — it’s served me well in life. Working hard with a smile on your face makes every day better.

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Jennell Duey, a family physician at Billings Clinic, says her specialty provides plenty of variety, and her patients become like part of the family.

Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I want to support the future of our community by promoting healthy lifestyles and healthy families. I do this by continuing my involvement with the Family Tree Center for child abuse prevention and parenting support and working with patients to live healthier lives. I also support and am involved with organizations that promote physical activity, making Billings a great place to raise healthy families. How do you measure success in your job? We are held to many standards and measures to determine how well we are taking care of patients (the numbers), but when patients are

healthy, I’m happy. Which living person do you most admire? My great-aunt GeneAnn. She is almost 90 and lives each day to the fullest — still improving herself through education, physical activity and community involvement. She’s amazing. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Taking my dream as a high-school kid of becoming a family practitioner and making it a reality. I truly love my job and love taking care of people and feel honored to be able to do what I do. I’m happiest when I’m... hanging out on a bike ride, hiking or camping with my husband and kids.

Congratulations Danielle Hughes,

on your recognition as one of the top 40 under forty! The Phillips 66 Billings Refinery is proud to have you on our team.

I February 2015

Billingsbusiness

Jessica Fehr attorney, Moulton Bellingham PC At an age when most kids are learning to ride a bike, Jessica Fehr was telling people that she wanted to become a lawyer. Fehr, an attorney at Moulton Bellingham PC, learned about the legal system at an early age because her parents were the plaintiffs in a lengthy medical malpractice case in which her younger brother was injured. “It developed into a 13-year legal battle and went to the Wyoming Supreme Court twice,” Fehr said. Fehr’s interest in the legal system grew stronger throughout that lengthy ordeal. While attending the University of Montana, Fehr served as a lobbyist, student political action director and was elected student body president. Former Gov. Marc Racicot also appointed her as student regent on the Montana Board of Regents. After graduating from the University of Montana Law School, Fehr went to work at the Moulton Bellingham firm. In 2006, she went to work for U.S. Attorney’s office, as the Affirmative Civil Enforcement attorney. From 2010 until 2014 Fehr prosecuted criminal cases for the federal government. She values her courtroom experience. “Very few civil cases go to trial

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anymore,” she said. “I didn’t want to call myself a litigation attorney and not know the inside of a courtroom.” Fehr returned to the Moulton Bellingham firm in 2014. She specializes in medical malpractice defense. “We all make mistakes in our jobs,” Fehr said. “If we make mistakes, let’s own up to it. But our society has become very litigious. At times good medical providers are put through the ringer.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I have amazing parents who never said “if” — it was always “when.” From achieving in high school, college and law school, I never doubted I could accomplish what I wanted if I worked hard enough because that was how I was raised. My parents continue to achieve daily and they are amazing role models for me. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Finding a balance between my love of the job and my family. I have two busy boys, 3½ and 15 months old, and I try to make every moment with them as special as possible but also try to find peace with the fact that I work outside of the home by choice. What’s the best business advice

Age: 35 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Filing for my mom What I’m reading: Anything to do with construction vehicles or dinosaurs Liked this movie: “To Kill a Mockingbird” Biggest passion outside of work: My family

Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Sometimes in this line of work you have to remind yourself to look Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK at the glass half full. What means the Jessica Fehr became interested in the legal profession while she was just a child. most is an appreciative client, whether or cold. There is no reason every house we won or lost, if they see the efforts you have received? Never let them put into their case and are satisfied can’t contribute regularly, in some know you are hungry or let them see and appreciative, I view it as a sucway, to the Billings Food Bank. A small you cry. There is something about cess. keeping emotions in check, especially gesture like a grocery bag of food or a Which living person do you most as a female lawyer, that helps to keep small contribution each month goes a admire? My mother. long way in this community. Also, how you on a level playing field with the What do you consider your many coats do you have sitting in bins greatest achievement? My children. rest of the bar. in the basement or in the hall closet Who gave you that advice? My They are truly amazing little human that never get worn? Donate, donate, mom. beings. donate. And bring your kids with you, Here’s what I’d like to do to I’m happiest when I’m … on improve my community: It breaks my it is amazing what they will take away Flathead Lake, with my family and out from such a simple gesture. heart that any child should be hungry of cell range.

February 2015

Tanya Ferber director, regional field operations, United Blood Services Most blood donors take comfort knowing that their lifegiving contribution will improve the health of a person they’ll never meet. But every once in a while a recipient of blood donations gets a chance to meet those who have helped keep them alive. About a year ago, United Blood Services contacted donors who had provided blood for a young girl who requires regular transfusions because she has a rare blood disorder. At the Bleeding Hearts luncheon, Bria Koch and her parents expressed their thanks to all of those have donated. As heartwarming as it is when recipients meet donors, there’s a never-ending need for blood and blood products, says Tanya Ferber, director of regional field operations for United Blood Services. Offering small rewards sometimes helps spur interest in donations. “We do have a hero rewards store where donors earn points for things like movie tickets or T-shirts,” Ferber said. “But the majority of our donors say they just want to give back.” United Blood Services reaches out to potential donors by staging blood drives at businesses and even some schools. Although kids younger than age 16 aren’t allowed to donate blood, high schools can be fertile ground for recruiting future donors. “A lot of kids want to give and to

Age: 36 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Busser, banquet server What I’m reading: “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” Liked this movie: “Hunger Games” trilogy Biggest passion outside of work: Helping those less fortunate

help out. But it’s a little harder during the summer months when they’re not in school,” Ferber said. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I began working at a young age and understood the importance of hard work to provide for myself and later my family. I had amazing parents as role models. By working, I was able to buy those things that I wanted and later put myself through college. I have always been very driven, leadership minded and strive for excellence in whatever I commit to. I began my career at United Blood Services while putting myself through nursing school. This is where I met my husband, so it has been like a family to me for all of these years. I left for a little over a year for a nursing internship in the Family Birth Center at Meritcare Health System in Fargo, N.D., followed by a full time position in their ICU after graduation. I came back to United Blood Services when they needed a nurse to supervise their apheresis department. I have held progressive leadership posi-

tions since my return in 2001, including moving to Billings in 2008 for a promotion to a regional director-level position. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Donor recruitment and retention. There are many reasons that donors chose not to donate blood; fear of needles, lack of time, previous bad experience, lack of education on what makes them ineligible to donate, financial, etc. We need a continuous supply of donors throughout the year to draw to the needs of our area hospitals. Although an estimated 38 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to donate, less than 10 percent actually do each year. What’s the best business advice you have received? We can swallow an elephant but can choke on a gnat — Look at the global picture and do not waste time on little things. Who gave you that advice? My boss, William Henry Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Partner with parents and schools to provide character education for area youth. Building strong,

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Tanya Ferber, shown here with mascot Ubie, says recruiting and retaining donors is her biggest challenge as director of regional field operations at United Blood Services.

responsible, independent children can promote future leadership as well as provide a healthy environment where bullying is not tolerated by youth. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? In the lives I am able to touch. I want to leave a legacy of passion, integrity, empathy, leadership, and performance excellence. I want to help others achieve their personal and professional goals by being a role model and making sure they have the tools and resources to be successful in whatever they are passionate about. Which living person do you most admire? My mother; she is a strong, amazing woman. I hope that my daughter and I both travel through life demonstrating the strength and resilience that she has.

What do you consider your greatest achievement? I am very proud of my children. They are wonderful little human beings. It warms my heart to hear what helpful, caring, kind, compassionate children they are. Their strong character is as important to me, if not more than their academic performance in school. I am also proud of earning my MBA while working as the regional donor care director, interim regional center director, raising two young children, co-authoring a chapter on donor apheresis for the “Principles of Apheresis Technology” and being a support to my terminally ill father. I feel this demonstrates organization, strength, resilience, and determination. I’m happiest when I’m… traveling and exploring new places with my family.

We are all so proud of you! You always set the bar high, lifting others along the way.

Congratulations Tanya Ferber! From Everyone at UBS!

I February 2015

Billingsbusiness

Kira Fercho artist, licensed therapist As her painting career has taken off, Kira Fercho has found it necessary to cut back on her other job as a licensed therapist. “The last (counseling) client I saw was about a month ago,” Fercho said in December. In her practice, Fercho has specialized in working with families and troubled youth. But she’s not ruling out taking on clients again at some point. “It’s something I can always go back and do if I need to,” she said. Moving forward, she continues to assist nonprofits that benefit families and children. “I do about 20 different fundraisers a year for organizations I was associated with as a counselor,” she said. Fercho acknowledges that it’s not easy to give up a passion like counseling. “But there’s only so much time in the day to do things.” Fercho’s art is shown in seven national galleries and two museums and at the Frame Hut in Billings. Meanwhile, her work is also on display at a new location: Fercho Gallery & Elliott Design in Big Sky. Fercho can’t remember a time when she didn’t have a paintbrush or a pencil in her hand. “I was always painting, and I was very concerned with what things looked like, even in my room,” she said. “When my mom was buying a shower curtain, I’d tell her, ‘Don’t get that color. Get this other color instead.’” Fercho studied art and psychology in college, and went into art education. After

Age: 35 Family: Single, one child First paid job: Selling paintings What I’m reading: “Act Like a Success Think Like a Success” by Steve Harvey and a book on painting technique. Liked this movie: Don’t watch many movies or TV Biggest passion outside of work: I love to create and paint. I enjoy time with my daughter and her friends.

deciding that teaching wasn’t her cup of tea, she went to work at the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch. Later, she returned to Montana State University Billings where she received a master’s degree in counseling. One of Fercho’s better known works is an expansive display of 12 tepees on display at the Billings Clinic. Nicholai Fechin and other Russian impressionists influence her art. But Billings artist Loren Entz has long been an inspiration. “I’ve painted with him on and off for 17 years. We mostly do figure studies,” Fercho said. “I will take workshops and classes from other people until I turn 90.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I pray and listen to others who are more intelligent or have more experience than I do. I also read a ton of books on finance. Mostly, I feel that I was given a few talents in this world and I need to strive to perfect them. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? I think fear is most

Congratulations to our very own Dena Johnson!

people’s biggest challenge. However, the things that I was afraid of never became problems. The problems are things that occur out of the sidelines. I like to say, “We will iron that wrinkle when we get there.” What’s the best business advice you have received? Put your beliefs first, family second, and everything else will follow. Who gave you that advice? I have read it in many books. I am not sure where I first read it. Also, my mom likes to remind me that I work well with “a wing and a prayer.” Somehow, I always land on my own two feet. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I donate resources and time to many nonprofits in our community. That is helpful. However, I would like to work on a direct link between MSU Billings grad students and our social services. For example, I would like to create a program that brings women from the women’s shelter to MSU Billings. Each woman would receive a counselor through the rehab and counseling program. Each

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Even as a child, Kira Fercho showed an interest in art.

woman would receive a mentor/case manager that would assist them with their educational/training goals. I would like for these women to receive free weekly mental health counseling (supervised by a licensed therapist) while receiving vocational counseling as well. My short-term goal would be that the individual would receive help to get into a program at MSU Billings. While they are at MSU Billings, they would receive free child care and also gain assistance through scholarships. This is only the tip of the iceberg. I have been thinking about this for years. Which living person do you most admire? Wow. This is the toughest question. I have about 20 people that I

could name. The one that makes the top of the chart (I think) is the man that has purchased many works of mine. Here is why: He is originally from a small town in Wyoming, came from a humble family (dad was a mechanic and mom was a stay-at-home wife with five kids). He gained an education as an engineer and then started a company that grew into a very large energy company. What do you consider your greatest achievement: Overcoming challenges that should have slowed me down, but instead making my weaknesses my strengths. I’m happiest when I’m… with my daughter/family, painting, hanging out with my boyfriend and friends.

We’re so proud you’re a part of our team!

W W W. B I G S K Y E C O N O M I C D E V E LO P M E N T. O R G Billingsbusiness

February 2015

Kevin Fichtner software development manager, Computers Unlimited Kevin Fichtner credits the late Lorrie Steerey, his academic adviser at Montana State University Billings, for getting him excited about how computer systems can make businesses more productive. While attending MSU Billings, Fichtner landed an internship at Computers Unlimited, a longtime Billings company that has carved out a unique niche in the technology world. The internship lasted about six months. But Fichtner was hired as a full-time employee in 1998 after completing his degree. He’s been there ever since. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I started my career at Computers Unlimited as a distribution technician intern. After graduation I worked in the support department supporting the accounting side of our software. In 2002 I was promoted to an upgrade specialist

Age: 38 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Fichtner Lawn Service, with my twin brother What I’m reading: “Pistol – The life of Pete Maravich” by Mark Kriegel Liked this movie: “Heaven is for Real” Biggest passion outside of work: Coaching youth sports

upgrading our entire customer base from our legacy version to our new Windows version or our TIMS Software. In 2004 I accepted a management position in our development group on the Industrial Gas and Welding side of the business. Since becoming a development manager I have absorbed a satellite office in Bozeman and another small quality assurance group. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? The

biggest challenge is finding developers/programmers who want to relocate to Billings. Billings is not known as a technology city, so finding developers/programmers with experience to relocate is a huge challenge. What’s the best business advice you have received? No matter what goes on in your day, you have to always remember the human element. You are only as good as your employees so it is important to make time for them

and help them grow into leaders. Who gave you that advice? David Schaer, the president of Computers Unlimited. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Continue to volunteer and help children in need. As part of the Heights Exchange Club we work closely with the low-income schools (Bench and Bitterroot Elementary) to give school supplies, winter coats, gloves, boots, Christmas presents, etc… There are so many children that are not able to even go outside and play during recess due to the fact that they do not have a coat or appropriate clothing. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? By the quality of our product and by our employees’ engagement in the business. Our mission statement at Computers Unlimited has four aspects: Our

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK Kevin Fichtner coaches youth sports as part of his volunteer efforts in Billings.

innovative products and services are No. 1; We exist to serve our customers; Quality is a given; Our people make it happen. Which living person do you most admire? Duke men’s basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K). He has been a very successful coach, yet is also a great volunteer, businessman, father and husband. The one trait that I admire most is how genuine he is. Coach K is the first to congratulate the other team on winning when

his team loses and he cares about his players and fans. There is book about Coach K called “Leading with the Heart,” which is something I try to use in the workplace. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being a father. I’m happiest when I’m… spending time with my wife and son. It does not matter what we are doing as long as we are together.

Aaron Flint host, Voices of Montana radio program As a youngster, Aaron Flint and his brother often rode Amtrak’s Empire Builder between Glasgow and Whitefish to visit family. Inevitably, they would end up in the dining car where they would visit with travelers from all over the world. “I always enjoyed talking to people, just having conversations,” said Flint, who grew up to be a broadcast journalist. His radio program, Voices of Montana, is broadcast statewide on the Northern News Network and is Montana’s only statewide radio broadcast. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I have always enjoyed talk radio — even since I was a kid. When I set out to attend Howard University for college, I ended up doing an internship for then-Sen. Conrad Burns, R-Mont., on Capitol Hill. I figured it would be great experience since 10

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can link people who have needs with the people who have the resources. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Anecdotally, it is the people who happen to hear my voice at another table in a restaurant in Miles City and thank me for what I did that day on the air. During one show, we were able of what makes it so entertaining. to connect a woman’s 53-year-old What’s the best business advice you have received? “Do it husband with his birth mother for the first time, all because of one big, do it right, give it class.” phone call. Who gave you that advice? Which living person do you The general manager of KHQ-TV spoke to our broadcast journalism most admire? My grandma Joan class at The University of Montana. in Glasgow. What do you consider your … not sure if it’s the best advice I’ve ever received, but it’s a line I’ve greatest achievement? Being a dad. never forgotten. I’m happiest when I’m… Here’s what I’d like to do to Making breakfast for my kids on improve my community: I’d like a Saturday morning when I finally to come up with a smartphone/ web-based app and a network that get to be home.

Age: 34 Family: Married, three children First paid job: Stuffing newspapers, Glasgow Courier What I’m reading now: “Wiki at War, Conflict in a Socially Networked World” by James Jay Carafano Liked this movie: “Forrest Gump” Biggest passion outside of work: Serving in the Army National Guard

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Aaron Flint, host of Voices of Montana, a statewide radio program, was exposed to journalism at a young age. statewide radio talk show Voices of

I was mainly waiting tables and going to school. Plus, Tim Russert worked on Capitol Hill before working in broadcasting as the host of Meet the Press. I ended up getting promoted to Sen. Burns’ full-time staff at the age of 21, eventually covering energy policy. The events of 9/11 led me back to Montana and to join the Montana Army National Guard and Army ROTC at The University of Montana. I then transitioned into the broadcast journalism program

at UM. Upon graduation, I completed my military officer training before deploying to Iraq. When I returned from Iraq, I landed my first full-time job at KTVQ-TV in Billings as reporter and executive producer. Two years later, I was deployed to Afghanistan. During that tour, I emailed Taylor Brown with some questions about agriculture and what we may be able to do to help the Afghan villagers in our area. It was then that Taylor asked if I would be interested in hosting their

Montana. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? The work never ends, and you never know what to expect. Since the news is changing on a constant basis I can never be fully prepared to go on air. Additionally, we open up our phone lines to take calls from anyone across Montana. No matter how much reading you do, or watching and listening to the news, you can never be fully prepared for what a caller might say, but that’s also part

Billingsbusiness

Mark Goldy physical therapist, lead athletic trainer, Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Athletes have different reasons for going to see Mark Goldy. Some are working to recover from a sports injury that has sidetracked their dreams. Some are looking for ways to avoid future injuries. Others are seeking a little more burst on the football field or a little more spring in their vertical leap when they take to the basketball court. Goldy, a physical therapist and lead athletic trainer for Billings Clinic Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, knows what it’s like to see an athletic career end prematurely. “I went through my own injuries and worked with physical therapists and athletic trainers,” said Goldy, who played American Legion baseball for the Billings Scarlets growing up. With his own athletic career cut short, Goldy became interested in helping other athletes perform to the best of their abilities. Goldy enjoys helping young people improve their performance. But he often reminds athletes he works with that performing in the classroom is the best way to succeed. “When we work with athletes, they often get this vision that they want to play in college or even the pros,” Goldy said. “Thankfully there are coaches who have the same idea and say your best chance of playing beyond high school is because you have academic success.

Age: 38 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Janitorial service What I’m reading: “Thanksgiving for the Tappletons” Liked this movie: “Ghostbusters” Biggest passion outside of work: Helping others

It makes a huge difference, plus it suits you better, especially if your athletic career ends before you want it to.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: As a former athlete, I became interested in the professions of athletic training and physical therapy as I struggled through my own injuries. I earned my master’s degree in physical therapy, became a certified strength and conditioning specialist and was hired at Billings Clinic Orthopedics & Sports Medicine as a physical therapist and to work with the Billings Bulls as the athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach. As our program has continued to expand, we have been able to offer a variety of camps and instruction to athletes of all ages and began providing athletic training services to School District 2, in addition to other area schools. We focus on doing what is right for our community, and in our line of work, that’s preventing injuries with these student-athletes before they even

happen. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Educating athletes, parents, and coaches about the “big picture” following injuries or training for a specific sport. Often, the emphasis by some athletes is the desire to return from injury too soon or to specialize in a single sport at too early of an age, which can lead to injury and athletes burning out at a young age. What’s the best business advice you have received? Choose a profession you love and do it well. Who gave you that advice? There have been many successful influences who have been able to demonstrate to me what it looks like when passion intersects with talent. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Currently my focus on community has been to support students and athletes of all kinds, which has presented opportunities in a few ways. Personally, I’ve become a big supporter of Special

MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK Mark Goldy helps athletes overcome injuries and perform better on the field.

Olympics, but I also work to support our partner school, McKinley Elementary, too. Continuing to be a resource for college students to provide quality clinical experiences and internship opportunities is also very important. We need to train those folks well and show them what opportunities are available locally so we can keep the talent here. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? By preventing injuries. If an injury happens, the next big success is safely returning athletes to competition after

injury. It’s always encouraging when former athletes reach out to thank me for helping them achieve their goals and to share their successes. That said, if I get to be on the sidelines of a game and nobody is injured, it has been a success. Which living person do you most admire? My dad, for teaching me to work hard and to help others. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Becoming a father. I’m happiest when I’m… on vacation with family

Bravo Darren! The Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale

www.coneer.com

Board of Directors congratulates Darren Rich on being named one of Billings’ 40 Under 40 honorees.

Congratulations Dawn Rollinger

Darren Rich BSO&C Executive Director

On Being a 40 Under Forty Finalist! Billingsbusiness

February 2015

Danielle Hughes Growing up, Danielle Hughes first learned about computers by playing games on her family’s Commodore 64. “You plugged it into the TV, and you typed in the commands,” Hughes said of the machine that has been described as the Model T of personal computers because it was affordable and technologically advanced for its era. Some 17 million units were sold, according to the website oldcomputers.net. “When I went to college, computers were a big thing coming up,” Hughes said, adding that she was most interested in programming, but less so in hardware. “I’m not a techie, computer nerd kind of person. I probably couldn’t take a computer apart,” she said. “But programming was something that was easy for me. I like the logic, thinking things through and learning how to make

Billlings refinery IT site lead, Phillips 66

how do you measure success in your job? If I can look back at the Age: 36 end of the day and feel a sense of Family: Married, two children accomplishment as I walk out the First paid job: Working at KFC door then it has been a successWhat I’m reading: Steve Jobs’ biography and every ful day. kid’s book my kids will let me read. Which living person do you Liked this movie: “Pitch Perfect” most admire? My Aunt Cece — I Biggest passion outside of work: My family and friends. have never met a more thoughtful person. She has never forgotten a world of IT, it seems like you finish I can handle this”… I had no idea birthday, anniversary, or any other up with one major project and you how valuable that advice would be. special event in my life. She makes Who gave you that advice? move right onto the next big thing. everyone she knows feel special Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK It’s always something different and One of my past supervisors. by letting them know she is thinkDanielle Hughes keeps the computer systems at the Phillips 66 refinery up and runHere’s what I’d like to do to it’s always something new. You ing about them. ning. improve my community: I hate have to be willing to change and What do you consider your to see anyone, especially children, greatest achievement? Being grow right alongside the technolnot converting documents, thank things work.” without warm winter clothes. ogy you support. able to balance my career and my goodness. With a little bit of luck, Describe how you got Every year at work we donate What’s the best business family and being able to do it with a lot of guidance, a lot of growing where you are in your work a positive attitude and a smile on today: I started as an intern while as a person and a lot of hard work advice you have received? When hats, jackets, scarves and gloves I became Site Lead I was told that to a local school. I would love to my face. I ended up with the role of IT Site I was still in college converting see every school in our community I needed to have broad shoulders I’m happiest when I’m… documents from WordPerfect and Lead for the Billings Refinery. receive a similar donation to help Anywhere the temperature is over What’s the biggest challenge and thick skin. At the time I reLotus to Word and Excel. When I member thinking “I’ve been in the keep the children warm. 80 degrees and I’m with family graduated I was offered a full-time you face in your job? Working and friends. Aside from profit and loss, job as an application analyst — in the ever-changing and growing refining industry for quite a while,

Dena Johnson regional director, Small Business Development Center, Big Sky Economic Development Dena Johnson travels through nine counties assisting people who are thinking about starting or expanding a business. As much as she loves her job, she sometimes has to caution prospective entrepreneurs that succeeding in business requires more than a dream. “We deal with everything from people who want to start a business to somebody who owns a business and is looking to start something else. We also have seen people who will be out of business if they don’t do something different,” said Johnson, who is regional director for the Small Business Development Center at Big Sky Economic Development. “If you come in and say you want to start a VCR repair business, you’d better change your plan. The market has changed,” Johnson said. Describe how you got where I February 2015 12

you are in your work today: My journey, like most, has brought me here organically. I began as an art/ writing major in college (this is still a passion) and then I stumbled into business management (right place at the right time) and moved next into the world of finance as a banker, and now I am a consultant. My dad taught me how to dance with people — how to lead and how to follow and how important it is to know how to do both. He told me before he died that he knew that my dance was far from over and that he was proud of me. Life is short and we get one story to write … we might as well write the story we would want to one day look back and read. I left the banking world (and I was good at it) to serve the community in a different capacity. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? I serve nine counties in Montana

Age: 32 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Babysitting What I’m reading: YVW magazine, SEO 2014 & Beyond, and John C. Maxwell’s “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” Liked this movie: “Goonies” Biggest passion outside of work: My family first – they are everything! Next, skiing, painting, or creating what I like to call “food art” making up recipes

with Billings taking most of my time. I work with local lenders, small-business owners, community leaders, educators, the SBA, a women’s business group and with a team of volunteer consultants. We are busy. This is remarkable, but it is also a challenge. As our team grows, we continue to look for ways to make sure we are reaching businesses at all stages and prioritizing our time. What’s the best business advice you have received?

“None of us is as smart as all of us,” Ken Blanchard Who gave you that advice? It’s not something I was told, but something I read. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Grow small business; mentor other leaders; strengthen community partnerships (work together) to be better; develop my team’s ability to serve clients at a deeper level; provide a professional environment with expert advice and

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK Dena Johnson, regional director for the Small Business Development Center, enjoys helping prospective business owners get started.

counsel at no charge; contribute to local philanthropic effort and make a difference. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Loans approved, clients consulted, trainings conducted. But for me, it’s watching a new business open or an existing one become more profitable and getting to be a part of something bigger than myself. Which living person do you most admire? My husband – he brings out my best self and is the most giving, caring, hardworking

person I have ever met. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My daughter, Brynley, she is only 4 months old but already the best contribution I will ever have to offer life. I never knew I could feel that much love at one time until the moment I saw her tiny face looking back at mine. I’m happiest when I’m… With my family… on an adventure… building a new memory… and making each day count. We love to get in the car and see where we end up.

Billingsbusiness

Jeff Kitchens monument manager, Pompeys Pillar National Monument Jeff Kitchens says his job as manager of Pompeys Pillar National Monument isn’t much different than if somebody had handed him the keys to the Smithsonian. “You feel like you’re the steward of a national treasure. That’s what it comes down to,” Kitchens said. Growing up in Arlington County, Va., just outside Washington, D.C., the sense of history was never lost to Kitchens when he visited the nation’s capital. “Going to places like the Smithsonian, you know you were walking in places so fundamental to the nation’s history,” he said. “Here, at Pompeys Pillar, you’re literally standing in the place where Capt. (William) Clark carved his signature.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I started out as a college graduate with a double major in psychology and environmental science. Unsure of what I wanted to do, I went to work for a summer camp and ended up as their assistant director of environmental education. I was not making much money and decided to go back to school. However, I took some time off and traveled around the country, living out of my car, visiting friends, traveling. I got a master’s degree from Colorado State University in forest

Billingsbusiness

sciences with a focus on wildland fire/ecology. From 1999-2010 I worked for various local, state, and federal agencies in fire (including as a firefighter) and forestry. In 2010, I got the opportunity to take a temporary promotion/detail as the lead for the BLM’s conservation programs in Colorado. I loved it. In 2011 I applied and got the position of monument manager. Along the way I have taken a number of leadership courses/programs. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? On any summer day we may have a number of facility issues, various visiting groups, scheduled tours for general visitors, an active fee collection program, any number of ongoing maintenance projects, bad weather, wildlife issues (e.g. rattlesnakes on the boardwalk), problems with the computers, etc. When numerous issues hit us at once, I need to have a great team and the resources available for that team to spring into action and make sure everything is accomplished, folks are safe, etc. It is a great challenge ensuring everything keeps moving, the team has all they need, and we are prepared to deal with emergencies that often come with a high-use site. I could not do it without my wonderful staff and the support of

Age: 38 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Stock clerk, Wild Birds Unlimited What I’m reading: “How Successful People Lead,” by John C. Maxwell Liked this movie: “Big Hero 6” Biggest passion outside of work: Family time, and staying active

the Friends Group. What’s the best business advice you have received? When stepping into a new leadership/ management position, make no significant changes in the first six months except those required to ensure continuity, safety, employee security, and/or prevent any critical issues. Take that time to learn about the site/office, your staff, the culture of the organization, and what the highest priorities are. Think, write, record, and plan. Who gave you that advice? Dave Hunsaker, former associate state director of BLM Colorado and a historian for the BLM. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I would like to build a partnership between all organizations in Billings that focus on youth (homelessness, abuse, education and discovery, etc.) and come up with a broadreaching, inclusive, inspiring plan

of action that creates more support and opportunities for children/ teens in Yellowstone County and surrounding areas. I would like to see this plan realized in the form of coordinated support between these organizations, local businesses, and community leaders. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Based upon the input I receive from my team. If folks had fun, got good customer feedback, feel good about the job they did, and look forward to working as a team on other projects, then we were successful. Which living person do you most admire? I admire anyone and everyone who works daily to ensure the children of our country are cared for, not abused, have a roof over their heads, and are in safe and loving homes. What do you consider your greatest achievement? I have

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Jeff Kitchens, manager of Pompeys Pillar National Monument, relishes the opportunity to share history with visitors.

established numerous partnerships around the country, which have benefited landscape-level ecosystems and the communities within them. My greatest achievement was bringing all American Indian tribes in Michigan and various Canadian First Nations to the table to discuss forest health issues and find common ground. In Montana, my greatest achievement has been to work with a number of amazing partners

in the Billings/Yellowstone Country Region to support Pompeys Pillar and increase awareness locally as well as nationally. This work has increased the number of visiting school groups, general tourists, economic support, and overall development of the site. I’m happiest when I’m… outside with children (mine or anyone’s) sharing my love and passion for the outdoors and our country’s heritage.

February 2015

Tom Mahlen

Ross McLinden

partner, Halverson & Mahlen P.C.

general counsel, Avitus Group Although he practices law in Montana, Ross McLinden has become quite familiar with employment laws in many other states. McLinden is general counsel for Avitus Group, a Billings-based firm providing a variety of businessrelated services for clients throughout the country. Before McLinden arrived, Avitus Group relied on outside attorneys. The fact that he has gone to work full time for the company is one measure of how the company has grown since its founding in 1996. “I obviously can’t represent any companies in a state unless I’m licensed there, and I’m licensed in more than one state,” McLinden said. “For instance, we do quite a lot of business in California, which is a very litigious state. So, I work with a lot of outside counsel, and I need to know the law there in order to know how I want to proceed when they advise.” The company’s clients range from mom-andpop shops to businesses that employ hundreds of people. Avitus Group is a group of companies, including a professional employment organization. For its PEO clients, the company is listed as the employer of record, meaning that it handles services such as payroll, benefits administration and human resources. In such an arrangement, “Your employees now become our employees for certain aspects so that we can provide them with benefits. They’ll fall under our workers’ compensation, for instance so you don’t have to worry about that,” McLinden said. Avitus Group provides professional services for companies that might not be able to afford them on their own, McLinden said. “A lot of small businesses don’t need a full-time human resources department, and it’s expensive to bring one on. You can save money by coming with us, and when you need HR, we’re there for you,” he said. McLinden had a lot of experience in employment law when he worked at Moulton Bellingham PC, prior to moving to Avitus Group. “Now, as general counsel, you have to have your fingers in a variety of matters, whether its commercial, transactional, human resources or marketing,” he said. “We also have an accounting firm. I’m involved in that, although I’m not a tax attorney.” After a little more than a year at Avitus Group, McLinden is happy with the move. “Avitus Group is a great company,” he said. “They do a lot of good for small businesses all over the country. It’s been great for Billings. They treat their employees well and they’re very ethical.” 14

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Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Ross McLinden is general counsel for Avitus Group,a Billings firm that provide employment-related services for businesses.

Age: 32 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Family lawn mowing business What I’m reading: “Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.” Liked this movie: “The Shawshank Redemption” Biggest passion outside of work: Making lasting memories.

Describe how you got where you are in your work today: An inherent drive to work hard (whatever the task may be). What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Time management. There are only so many hours in a day. What’s the best business advice you have received? Own your mistakes and then learn from them. Who gave you that advice? I don’t recall, but it is often-repeated advice that is much easier said than done. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Get more people actively involved on nonprofit boards that they feel strongly about. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? How consistently the desired result is obtained, regardless of the task. Which living person do you most admire? My father What do you consider your greatest achievement? I am hopeful that it is yet to come. I’m happiest when I … see my baby daughter smile.

Tom Mahlen became interested in law at an early age. But that doesn’t mean his family tree is populated by former circuit judges or defense attorneys. “I did pretty well in school and was initially interested in medicine. But after I shadowed a surgeon, I knew right away that wasn’t for me,” said Mahlen, who is a partner in the Billings firm Halverson & Mahlen P.C. “I didn’t really know any attorneys, so it was a brand-new thing in my family,” Mahlen said. While he was still in high school, he and his mother began researching the legal profession to find out what it would take to pursue it as a career. “I love writing and I liked public speaking, so that turned out to be extremely important for my career as an attorney,” Mahlen said. He studied journalism at the University of Wisconsin Superior. The late Mike Simonson, a longtime reporter and news director for Wisconsin Public Radio, was a big influence. “Working in radio helped me learn how to write more concisely,” he said. During his time at the University of North Dakota School of Law, Mahlen did an internship with the Billings law firm Herndon Sweeney & Halverson. He returned after graduation and is now a partner in the firm. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I grew up in Danbury, Wis., a rural town in northern Wisconsin. When I was old enough to walk, I started sweeping floors and doing odd jobs for mom and dad at their business, M&M Auto Service and Towing. I worked there during summers and after school (and on semester breaks from college) until I moved to North Dakota to attend law school in 2004. In any family business (much like a farm or ranch), you celebrate the good and bear the bad together as a family. When times are good, everyone benefits. When

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Tom Mahlen, pictured with his son Tom Mahlen III, said his journalism studies during college helped prepare him for a career in law.

Age: 32 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Sweeping floors at my parents’ shop What I’m reading: Besides law books, the Bible. Liked this movie: “Despicable Me” and “Despicable Me 2” Biggest passion outside of work: Watching my son grow up

times are tough, you work without pay. I learned to work hard (whether someone was watching or not), and I performed any job that was given to me — no matter how menial or unimportant it may have seemed at the time. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? It is critically important to take time to enjoy life. My wife has been a wonderful resource for me, reminding me to take time once in a while away from the office. What’s the best business advice you have received? “You can do anything you want in life, as long as you’re willing to work for it.” Who gave you that advice? My parents. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I have a passion for helping children. While I am currently involved in programs that offer assistance in these areas, I would like to look at additional opportunities to advocate for children, whether within

or outside of the legal system. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? My favorite part of my job is advocacy. There is nothing that makes me happier in the practice of law than helping a client navigate what can be an intimidating legal system; providing assurance to them along the way; and standing up for their rights. Which living person do you most admire? My parents. They started with very little, built a business that will celebrate its 30th year in business next year, and somehow managed to send five kids to college. What do you consider your greatest achievement? I am proud of, but extremely grateful for, the business opportunities I have encountered. However, the single greatest moment of my life was seeing my son born. I’m happiest when I’m… Either outdoors with my wife and son, working on an old car, or covered in sawdust working on a construction project. Billingsbusiness

Barry McKenzie MD, general and trauma surgeon, Surgical Associates PC Barry McKenzie got a taste of America’s pastime as an outfielder and pitcher for the Billings Royals. But athletics took a back seat to academics after he became interested in a medical career. “I was invited to a youth medical conference between my junior and senior years, and that sparked my interest in doing something in medicine, so the interest in playing baseball in college wasn’t there,” said McKennzie, who is a general surgeon at Surgical Associates P.C. When it came to choosing a college, McKenzie said Rocky Mountain College’s premedicine curriculum was well regarded, and it also offered the best scholarships. While working as an emergency room technician at St. Vincent Healthcare, McKenzie got a chance to work with one of his future partners, Dr. Eric Dringman. “He let me follow along and shadow him, and I knew from that moment that I wanted to be a surgeon,” he said. McKenzie says the operating room staff must work as a team. “I’m the captain of the ship if you will, but if everybody in the room isn’t doing what they need to be doing, the

Age: 38 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Emergency Department technician at St. Vincent Healthcare What I’m reading: “Notes of a Baseball Dreamer” by Robert Mayer Liked this movie: Band of Brothers Biggest passion outside of work: Teaching

team kind of fails. I like the team sport perspective that we’re all working together with the common goal of providing excellent care.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I always joke I gave up my 20s to do what I love — practice medicine. Four years of undergraduate work followed by four years of medical school and five years of residency equates to 13 years of schooling/training post high school. After spending many years away from family, my wife and I knew we wanted to move closer to one of our families as we started thinking about raising our now six-year-old twins. I grew up in Billings and was happy with the practice opportunity with Surgical Associates, PC. It was an excellent fit for my professional goals while balancing life with my family. Over the last six years I have gained knowledge, experience, and the confidence to become

a member of various teams at St. V’s including the breast committee and now the hospital’s trauma director. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your career? The constantly changing health care market challenges me every day. Federal government regulations have required significant changes for medical practices including mandatory investment in an electronic health record and outcome reporting. What’s the best business advice you have received? Medicine and caring for patients cannot be treated as a business. I have adapted this advice into my surgical career. Although I am a small business owner, too, the majority of my time is spent caring for patients and I always keep the two very separate. My personal goal is to treat everyone like they’re your family. Who gave you that advice? An attending surgeon during residency.

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK Barry McKenzie, a general and trauma surgeon, says providing excellent health care is a team sport.

Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: As a trauma surgeon, I see the horrific results of poor choices. These choices include such things as driving under the influence, not wearing a helmet and seat belts and the associated violent crimes surrounding the use and distribution of illegal drugs. I hope to continue with high school programs that provide education to students regarding the risks of driving while under the influence and distracted driving. I plan to participate in state legislative bills supporting a helmet and primary seat belt law for the state. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Success in medicine and helping patients is obviously much more

than profit and loss. Unfortunately, medicine is not black and white, with many patients not fitting into textbook scenarios. I measure my success by how well patients understand their care plan and associated issues that may arise along the way. From their initial office visit, to their procedure and follow-up care, I strive to ensure my patients understand that we are a team working together to get through the difficult situation at hand. Which living person do you most admire? My most senior partner in our surgical practice. He’s a person that makes medicine look easy. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being a dad. I’m happiest when I’m… enjoying baseball with my family.

congratulations CTA is proud to congratulate Shannon for being recognized in the 2015 40 Under Forty.

SHANNON PETERSON

AIA, LEED AP Associate

Billingsbusiness

13 North 23rd Street | Billings, MT 59101 | 406.248.7455 | www.CTAGROUP.com

February 2015

Kelly Melius autism specialist, Easter Seals Goodwill Kelly Melius doesn’t get angry very easily. Growing up, however, one thing never failed to get under her skin: Seeing schoolmates pick on kids with disabilities. “To see people with disabilities get teased, it didn’t really make sense to me,” she said. “I always just liked these people. They’re human beings like everybody else.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I have a soft spot in my heart for people with special needs. I spent my college years as a support aid to children and adults with autism residing in group homes and went on to become a certified family support specialist providing early intervention services to families and their children age 0-3. I provide PLAY Project developmental intervention for children age 14 months to 6 years. I organize and

facilitate all of the Easter Seals Goodwill social skills classes held quarterly, plan and assist in summer camps and run our Sibling Support Group (a workshop for children who have brothers and sisters with special needs) for children age 8-12. What is the biggest challenge in your job? The rate at which the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is being given is astounding. What keeps me up at night is knowing that not all of these children are receiving intervention that is tailored to their individual needs and characteristics. I believe it takes a “whole community” to ensure that the children and families affected by autism get the support they need; we have to work together to raise awareness so these individuals can live in a community that supports them to feel safe, accepted, and competent.

Age: 37 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Portland Malt Shop, Duluth, Minn. What I’m reading: “The Autism Discussion Page” by Bill Nason Liked this movie: “Shrek the Musical” Biggest passion outside of work: Snowboarding with my daughter

What’s the best business advice you have received? When I got my current position with ESGW I got a call from a former colleague congratulating me. I remember thanking her but also telling her how scared and nervous I was to fill the shoes of my predecessor/mentor. I was terrified and worried knowing that the need for support in our community was great. My colleague’s response to me was perfect. She said, “Kelly, you will

Justin Millet regional bank private banker, Wells Fargo Not long ago, the Billings Chamber of Commerce launched its NextGen group as a way to give young business professionals an opportunity to rub elbows, have fun and make a difference in the community. NextGen’s membership ranges from people age 21 to 39. Justin Millet, a private banker at Wells Fargo, welcomed NextGen as a way to interact with others in his age group. “It’s something that we’ve lacked in the past, and it’s nice to have an organization of young professionals in town that we can bounce ideas off, collaborate with and network with,” Millet said. “It’s fun because you’re getting fresh new ideas that you’re able to take back to your job and take that next step. It’s something that I didn’t have earlier in my career, but it’s nice to have that now.” Millet has held a number of 16

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positions during his 11 years at Wells Fargo. He sometimes says that he has a degree in Wells Fargo because the corporate culture is such an integral part of his life. “I find myself in appreciation of the customer service aspect, and I take that to heart,” he said. “It doesn’t’ matter how good the product is, if you aren’t being treated well, you’re going to start taking your business elsewhere.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I went the traditional route and worked my way up with the company. I began at an inbound internal customer service call center, and then transitioned into retail banking space initially as a personal banker. I was promoted to assistant store manager position that led to acquiring my securities 7 and 66 licenses, followed by my current role, a

newly created position within Wells Fargo, which I piloted along with two others in the state. I have been in this role for the last three years. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Earning the trust of my customers is the biggest challenge, but provides the biggest reward. To know the time and work that goes into building their individual financial picture and having them turn to me for guidance, takes one on one time to develop a personal connection to include me in their trusted circle. What’s the best business advice you have received? Exceed the level of service you would expect for yourself when servicing your customers. Who gave you that advice? My mom. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Do

wear your own shoes.” Best. Advice. Ever! Who gave you that advice? Susan Betz from STEP Inc. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: My dream would be to live in a community where all individuals with special needs, especially those with autism characteristics are accepted for who they are. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? I believe individuals

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Kelly Melius, an autism specialist with Easter Seals Goodwill, takes great pleasure seeing the kids she works with show progress.

on the spectrum have a different neurological makeup than ours. It’s not better, it’s not worse, it’s not less, it’s just different. Because of that difference, their brain makes it difficult for them to do certain things that come naturally to others. Nothing brings me more satisfaction and joy than to watch the magic of a relationship unfold between a parent and their child. This is success beyond measure. Which living person do you

most admire? There are three people: Audrey Pierce-Seeley. My sister has overcome such adversity in her life, and my mother. I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for her. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My work… supporting families … impacting lives; and my small but amazing family. I’m happiest when I’m… snowboarding with my 8-year-old daughter.

how do you measure success in your job? I believe success is measured by the loyalty and financial success of my clients. Which living person do you most admire? Sharon Desjarlais. She’s the most selfless person I’ve ever met. She’s been a foster parent for mentally disabled children and adults for more than 30 years. She gives tirelessly to people around her and puts other people ahead of herself no matter the situation. What do you consider your Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK greatest achievement? In my role, I receive referrals from my The game of life offers many challenges. Justin Millet, a private banker with Wells partners within multiple areas of Fargo, said helping people meet their financial challenges is quite rewarding. Wells Fargo. To earn the trust of my co-workers to work with their Age: 34 best customers and knowing I Family: Single will take care of them, put their First paid job: Telemarketer interests first, and that I’ll add What I’m reading: “The Hunger Games” value to the relationship and team Liked this movie: “Back to the Future” they’ve built around them is a Biggest passion outside of work: Friends and family great complement and my greatest achievement. what I can to keep and appreciate so the more that occurs right here I’m happiest when I’m… the talented people already in our at home, the better our commulaughing and arguing with my community and serve them how- nity will continue to be. friends about something comever I can. Success is contagious, Aside from profit and loss, pletely insignificant. Billingsbusiness

Colt Moedl vice president, power delivery EPC leader, HDR Inc. Colt Moedl graduated from Montana State University with no student debt, largely because of his skills in the rodeo arena. As a scholarship athlete, he traveled with the MSU rodeo team, but still managed to handle a challenging major: mechanical engineering. Moedl grew up on a family ranch near Henry’s Lake, Idaho, just west of West Yellowstone. The rodeo scholarship opened doors for him, but he also appreciates the work ethic that his ranch background provided. “We were land rich but money poor,” he said of his childhood. “As a college kid, I didn’t think much about using my degree,” Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Moedl said. “I thought I would A rodeo scholarship helped Colt Moedl complete an engineering degree at Montana rodeo and then run the ranch State University. after college.” Moedl’s perspective changed after he suffered an ankle injury Family: Married, four children while riding a saddle bronc. First paid job: Working on the family ranch “After that, I was thankful I What I’m reading: “Essentialism: The Disciplined received my degree,” Moedl said. Pursuit of Less” by Greg McKeown Liked this movie: “Star Wars” “It’s been exciting switching Biggest passion outside of work: Anything familyfrom ranching and rodeo to life in oriented corporate America.” Soon after graduating, Moedl

went to work for HDR Inc., a multinational firm with expertise in architecture, engineering consultation and construction projects. HDR has 8,500 employees working in 140 offices around the world. Moedl, a vice president, is involved in a division that’s working to improve the nation’s electrical infrastructure. The department in which he is involved has grown from 50 employees to 400. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: By focusing on results. In rodeo you only get paid if you win, and ranching only works if you can handle the blood, sweat, and tears. The work ethic I developed from my family and rodeo transitioned well into what I do now. I was also very lucky to be surrounded by a great group of people at HDR who are willing to do whatever it takes to meet the demands of our clients. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? A little thing called work/life balance.

What’s the best business advice you have received? Growing up, my dad had a small appraisal business, and inside his office he had a sign with a gigantic battleship that said, “Ships don’t just come in, they are built.” I made my own sign that hangs in my office with the same wording. You can’t expect results without a well thought plan, passion, sacrifice, and dedication. Who gave you that advice? My dad. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I would love to see every kid in Billings have access to a horse. It’s amazing to me how one horse can completely change the heart and mind of a child. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? External success is when our clients trust us and hire us for a second job. There is nothing cooler than having a client that is a friend for life. Internal success is watching some of our youngest leaders step up and manage some of the largest and most difficult projects and clients

in the country. Which living person do you most admire? My wife’s mother, Stella (yep my mother-in-law). She was a single mom with four kids. When my wife was 10 years old she was diagnosed with life-threatening cancer and had to spend several months in Denver. Stella had to quit nursing school to focus on my wife and her other kids. She did an amazing job and raised four great kids. Her willingness to dedicate her entire life to their well being and care is something I deeply admire and appreciate. What do you consider your greatest achievement? First, my family: Wife (Sarah), daughter (Ella), son (Carsten), the twins, horses (Diamond, Gus, Bronco, Patch, Diego), dogs (Zeus, Xerxes, Xenia), four white ducks, and three chickens. Second: becoming one of the youngest vice presidents of a $1 billion company set on changing the world for the better. I’m happiest when I’m…on a horse with my family.

It’s bigger

than banking.

firstinterstate.com Billingsbusiness

Congratulations to the 40 Under Forty. We applaud your accomplishments. It’s you and together.

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

February 2015

Ty Nelson

owner, Ty Nelson Construction Ty Nelson, a son of two artistic parents, might have been written off as a fish out of water when he started working in construction right after he graduated high school. “We didn’t have a drill in our house, no power tools,” Nelson said. Today, he jokes that he didn’t know the difference between a two-by-four and a sheet of wallboard when he signed on as a delivery driver for Grand Lumber. Nelson enjoyed the industry. Before long he went to work on a house-framing crew. “I didn’t know how to read a tape measure before I started,” he said. “I just knew I never wanted to be sitting behind a desk.” Fifteen years ago he founded Ty Nelson Construction Co., which specializes in renovations and remodeling projects. The venture provided many valuable lessons in how to run a business. In fact,

Age: 38 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Paper boy What I’m reading: “The Internet” and various kids books Liked this movie: “Man on Fire” Biggest passion outside of work: Increasing my heart rate through various activities

Nelson still remembers his first job as a new contractor: installing a window that gave the homeowners a better view of their deck in the backyard. The business has grown so much that Nelson settled on a storefront. The new home of Ty Nelson Construction has a long history. Located at 1041 Broadwater Ave., the building was once known as the Big Boy Drive-in. It also served as a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant and a pizza restaurant. One subsequent owner painted

the building in vibrant colors and christened it the Tiki Hut, a payday loan business that closed a few years ago. Nelson said the building was in rough shape when he bought it. But he saw potential in it because of its favorable location. “We gutted the back shop area, and it created some great office space,” he said. The Billings construction business has been booming lately. “It’s the busiest we have ever been,” Nelson said. Although Nelson still has a

Collaborating multiple projects in a business with many unforeseen variables. What’s the best business advice you have received? “Pay it forward” Who gave you that advice: Life. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I would like everyone to live in a home they love. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK in your job? Creating trustworthy Ty Nelson caught the travel bug from his parents, Tom and Tina Nelson. “I saw relationships and utilizing all of New York City as a young child, and was able to see Amsterdam,” he said. “I the homes possibilities resulting hope I can travel to the extent that they do.” in a quality project with happy and satisfied customers. commitment to craftsmanship and you are in your work today: Which living person do you service, his life has changed as he Integrity, attention to detail and juggles the demands of a growing honesty have been core influences most admire? I have amazing business. in building great projects and even people in my life, I admire many. What do you consider your “My life is in the office these better relationships. greatest achievement? My days,” he said. What’s the biggest chal4-year-old-daughter, Stella Describe how you got where lenge you face in your job?

Kari Parker vice president and chief financial officer, Wendy’s of Montana Even as a youngster, Kari Parker had a knack for crunching numbers. “I took five years of math in high school, and I knew during my junior year in high school that I wanted to be an accountant,” said Parker, who is vice president and chief financial officer for Wendy’s of Montana Inc. “My parents were president and secretary of a rodeo club in Glasgow, and I used to do their checkbook. I don’t even remember how old I was when I started doing it. I was probably a high school freshman or even an eighth-grader.” Rodeo and other sports kept Parker busy while growing up in Glasgow. She attended North Dakota’s Dickinson State University, where she played volleyball. But she gave up college sports after transferring to Montana State University Billings, where she completed her accounting 18

I February 2015

degree. “It’s such a homeworkintensive program,” she said. “You have to turn in a lot of assignments, and it would have been too tough to travel and go to school as well.” Parker worked for several accounting firms after graduation, but then an opportunity at Wendy’s came along. “It has been a great opportunity,” she said. “The quick-serve restaurant industry is so different from anything I had been doing. It was fun getting to know the employees.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: A lot of hard work, a lot of miles traveled, and being in the right place at the right time. I spent just over six years in public accounting with KPMG LLP and Eide Bailly LLP as an auditor. I

Age: 36 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Salesperson for a sports and western store in Glasgow What I’m reading: Any book my daughters ask me to read to them Liked this movie: “The Blind Side” Biggest passion outside of work: Traveling with my family.

knew I wanted to work in the private sector and heard of this opportunity directly from a partner in the accounting firm I was working for at the time. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Trying to make working for Wendy’s a positive experience as well as dealing with such a diverse group of individuals with different concerns and needs is challenging at times. What’s the best business advice you have received? The

only thing constant in life and work is change. Who gave you that advice? My dad. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Since my daughter has started school, it has become very apparent to me that there are too many underprivileged children in our community. One of Dave Thomas’ (Founder of Wendy’s) legacies is “Give Something Back – the more you give the more you get in return.”

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Kari Parker stayed busy growing up with rodeo and other sports.

Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Success in a quick-serve restaurant situation is based on customer feedback and an increase in transactions. We look very closely at both of those indicators. Personally, if I feel that I have made a difference and helped someone out — that is success to me. Which living person do you most admire? More than one for sure … but my husband is a great provider to our family …

and knowing we will always be taken care of is pretty admirable. What do you consider your greatest achievement? I know its cliche, but my family. Balancing a full-time career in a demanding world, continuing to be involved in the community, and maintaining a strong home life is extremely difficult. I’m happiest when I’m… doing anything with my family. I love to watch my daughters enjoy life. Billingsbusiness

Shannon Peterson associate, project manager, architect, CTA Architects Engineers

Shannon Peterson supervises 27 employees for CTA Architects Engineers, a 77-year-old Billings firm that employs nearly 400 people in 18 offices. Peterson, an associate project manager and architect for CTA, said she has always welcomed taking on new challenges and responsibilities. She’s thankful to have excellent mentors who have helped her advance. Peterson and other CTA employees also volunteer frequently at Newman Elementary in Billings. “I started out being a reading tutor,” she said. “You just build a relationship through the year. It’s fun to see the kids get better and get excited about reading.” During the holiday season, she has been known to don an elf costume and hand out Christmas gifts to Newman students. “It’s really fun seeing those kids’ faces light up when it might be the only Christmas present they get. Even the sixth-graders get excited about it even if they don’t believe in Santa,” she said. Peterson appreciates working for a company that encourages giving back to the community. “CTA is the kind of company where if you take the initiative, they’ll let you do it,” she said. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I got where I am today by setting and pursuing goals, support from great mentors, and having a bias for action. Setting goals has forced me to be engaged and actively think about where I want my career to go and focus on how to get there. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Since taking on the leadership of our architectural services, it’s finding talented, qualified designers and architects who want to move to Billings. With the recession, many people in the architectural profession were forced to pursue different career opportunities. That has left us with fewer people looking for jobs and an extremely competitive hiring market as the Billingsbusiness

economy has turned around. What’s the best business advice you have received? “Learn to say no.” Being able to manage what I take on, pass along opportunities to others, and put more effort into the things I say yes to has been challenging, yet rewarding. Who gave you that advice? Brad Sperry, associate principal at CTA. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Coming from a family of teachers, I feel one of the biggest impacts we can have on our community is in the education system. We have outstanding students, teachers, staff, and administrators here in Billings. I would like give them the resources, facilities, and support they need to continue improving student achievement and positively influencing our future generations. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? I measure success by the experience that clients, contractors, and our staff have. I want every client to enjoy the process of working with us, contractors to value being partners with us on projects, and our staff to be proud of the work we do and the team they are a part of.

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Shannon Peterson has a challenging job at CTA Architects Engineers. Outside of work, she’s also a dedicated volunteer. Age: 31 Family: Engaged First paid job: Babysitting What I’m reading: “Coaching and Mentoring: How to Develop Top Talent and Achieve Stronger Performance” by the Harvard Business Review. Liked this movie: “Argo” Biggest passion outside of work: Volunteering

Which living person do you most admire? My younger sisters, Kalli Murphy and Whitney Peterson. They teach K-8 music and sixth grade, respectively. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Finding a company whose vision and values

align with my values and passions and being able to carry those forward into the next generation. I’m happiest when I’m… watching the Green Bay Packers win on a fall or winter Sunday with my fiance, family and friends, good food, and Montana microbrews.

s n o i t a l Congratu

Jessica Spattler! Your compassion for kids, your service to families & your positive attitude inspire us all!

We are proud you are on our

team!

Congratulations to Rocky Mountain College’s

40 Under Forty!

You demonstrate the leadership qualities that reflect the goals of a Rocky Mountain College education.

Dr. Barry McKenzie Ty Nelson 1511 Poly Drive – Billings, MT 59102 1.800.87.ROCKY/www.rocky.edu

friendshipmt.org 406-259-5569 3123 8th Avenue South Billings, MT February 2015

Darren Rich executive director, Billings Symphony Orchestra and Chorale Many people assume that musicians and engineers are from different planets. While musicians obsess about scales, embouchure and music theory, engineering students toil over quantitative pursuits like physics and fluid mechanics. Darren Rich has walked a little in both worlds. He minored in music while completing an engineering degree at the University of California in Berkeley. His career in civil engineering Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK included a three-year stint with Darren Rich left his career in engineering to pursue a music-oriented career. Bechtel, the multinational engineering firm. He also earned a master’s in business administration from the Age: 36 University of Michigan. Family: Married, one child Rich’s love for music never First paid job: Children’s swim instructor dwindled, but his engineering and What I’m reading: The Economist, and an business background served him autobiography of Frederick Douglass well after he decided to switch gears Liked this movie: “Godfather” Parts I and II and pursue a music-oriented career. Biggest passion outside of work: Family and community “Music stayed with me over the music groups. years, and early in my professional life I came to the conclusion that

music was where my passion was, and that led me into orchestra management,” he said. Rich has been executive director of the Billings Symphony for a year and a half. Despite his busy life with work and family, he still finds time to play his clarinet. Many symphonies have fallen on hard times, but Rich says the Billings Symphony is doing well, thanks largely to generous community support. Director Anne Harrigan, who has been with the symphony for 10 years, is an excellent ambassador for the organization, he said. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Finite resources — money, time and staffing. As a nonprofit we are constantly hustling to raise the funds necessary just to cover our regular expenses, let alone additional funding to invest in new programs. On the other hand, the time saved from

streamlining our current operations doesn’t fully counterbalance the increased demands. As such, any organizational growth often falls to the current staff to increase their workload. That, of course, has limits. What’s the best business advice you have received? To be successful in your work, you’ve got to love what you do. Who gave you that advice? Riley Bechtel, former CEO of Bechtel Corp. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: Billings is known as a regional hub for many reasons: business, health care, retail, etc. I view these as “tent poles” that raise the quality of life in our community. The arts can certainly be one of those tent poles. My goal with the BSO&C is that, when people consider the many reasons why they are happy living here, we are consistently part of that list. Aside from profit and loss,

how do you measure success in your job? Our key focus is serving our mission: to enrich lives through music. How many people did we reach through our education and outreach programs? Are we performing top-quality concerts to the audience? In short, are we viewed as an important community resource? Which living person do you most admire? Sorry, I’m going to give you several names (in no particular order): Angela Merkel, Eric Schmidt, Bruce Bochy, Brent Assink, John McCain What do you consider your greatest achievement? This question makes me think of an interview with Duke Ellington near the end of his life. He was asked to name the favorite piece he ever wrote, and he immediately answered, “The next piece, always the next piece.” I’m happiest when I’m… improving.

Matt Robertson principal, supervising broker, NAI Business Properties Matt Robertson’s love for crunching numbers opened doors after he graduated from Montana State University Billings with a degree in finance. Robertson put his diploma to work as a financial analyst for American Express. But after a friend suggested that he could prosper in real estate, he decided to give it a try. Robertson helped customers buy and sell houses early in his career. But he never looked back after he got a taste of the commercial market. “I really like selling commercial real estate a lot. As a finance major, it fit in with what I liked to do,” said Robertson, who is a principal and supervising broker at NAI Business Properties. In commercial real estate, the focus is on numbers. Buyers and sellers may be looking to maximize 20

I February 2015

their return on investment, generate cash flow or find the best use for a given piece of property. “In commercial real estate, you’re dealing more with assetbased, numbers-based evaluations and decisions rather than feelings or emotions,” Robertson said. Another advantage of commercial real estate is that business is transacted Monday through Friday. Commercial brokers typically don’t attend weekend open houses, and they rarely meet with clients at night. Robertson has worked in commercial real estate for eight years, the past six at NAI. The Billings market has seen a few ups and downs during that time. The low point was 2009, when the nation was still digging out of a recession that resulted from the sub-prime mortgage crisis. Since then, the Billings com-

Age: 32 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Waiting tables, Kit Kat Cafe Liked this movie: “The Great Gatsby” Biggest passion outside of work: My family

mercial market has seen steady improvement. “For 2014, we’re going to be just a little bit off of last year,” Robertson said in early December. “We feel that activity is something that’s sustainable and up to levels that we saw in 2006-07.” NAI works with sellers, buyers, landlords, tenants and property owners. The company also manages a number of commercial properties. In addition, Robertson does more than 100 property valuations per year, mostly for lenders. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I

constantly strive to put my clients and investors first, while also giving them the service that they deserve. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? To maintain the highest level of service across all levels of my business. What’s the best business advice you have received? Even though you feel like you are spinning your wheels, all positive activity will eventually come back to benefit you and your business. Who gave you that advice? My father Here’s what I’d like to do

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK Matt Robertson has a degree in finance from Montana State University Billings. He says commercial real estate helps him put his number-crunching skills to work.

to improve my community: Through my years of participation in the Downtown Billings Association and Partnership I would like to continue to develop a more vibrant downtown that draws business and people from around the state. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? By positioning my clients in real estate investments that allow them to move toward

financial freedom. Which living person do you most admire? My mother. She is the most dedicated, hard-working and brilliant person I know. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Building a platform in business and investing to take care of my family. I’m happiest when I’m… Spending time with my daughter, golfing or working. Billingsbusiness

Chance Robinson artist Legend has it that Vincent van Gogh, one of the greatest painters to ever live, sold just one painting during a brief, unhappy lifetime. The term “struggling artist” seems to have been coined for the Dutch painter who died at age 37. By contrast, Billings artist Chance Robinson has enjoyed surprising success even though he’s just 19 years old. In 2013, while he was a senior at Billings Central High, one of Robinson’s paintings, “The Yearling,” sold for $22,000 at the Mayfair auction. His accomplishment broke new ground because he was the first high school student whose work was sold in the fundraiser for Billings Catholic Schools. Robinson has received training at both Stanford University and the Art Institute of Chicago. While attending the prestigious Chicago institution, the dean of undergraduate students took him aside one day. “He asked me if I had thought about doing this as a full-time, practicing artist,” Robinson said. “I think he saw something. I told him that it’s a dream I’ve always had and that I’d be willing to give anything and everything

Age: 19 Family: Single First paid job: Painting What I’m reading: D.V. Diana Vreeland (biography) Liked this movie: “Pan’s Labyrinth” Biggest passion outside of work: Learning new ways to create art.

to make it happen.” He put his education on hiatus and returned to Billings. Meanwhile he and his father, Stacey Robinson, took a 1,700-mile journey through the Southwest to visit galleries, museums and other locations so that he could formulate his own ideas about the kind of art he wanted to produce. So far it has been an exciting time for Robinson, whose work has proven to be quite popular despite the fact that his career is just starting out. In the past two years, his paintings sold at fundraisers have brought in more than $85,000. “It has gone so fast, it’s terribly exciting. It keeps you focused,” Robinson said. As much as he loves painting, Robinson is also fascinated with biology and astrophysics. Once, in fourth grade, when he was asked to bring a favorite book to school, Robinson chose “A Brief History of Time” by

Stephen Hawking. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I began working in the acrylic paint medium seriously while in my junior year at Billings Central High School. It was in the summer of my junior year that I was given the opportunity to attend Stanford University. During my time at Stanford, I was able to immerse myself in the practice of becoming a professional artist. With my Stanford professor’s encouragement, I attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago on a scholarship. From my time in Chicago, I gained the necessary skills to take my art to the professional level. It has been through the generosity and support of my family and community that I have been able to realize my dream of becoming a full-time artist. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? The biggest challenge in my career is also one of its most exciting elements. It is the

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Chance Robinson has enjoyed significant success in his art career even though he’s just 19 years old.

never-ending fight to stay relative and creative in the conversation that is modern art. What’s the best business advice you have received? “Take risk.” Who gave you that advice? My father. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I would like to become a permanent donor to the organizations that I personally feel connected to. I believe in Billings, and the people/organizations that keep Billings unique and original. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? By my eagerness to wake up and get to work, day after day for as long

as it may last. Success is manifested as happiness, my own happiness lies in the moment when I see an image forming and when that image makes someone else’s mind wander just a little further past consciousness. Which living person do you most admire? My friends and family that love and support me. I cannot choose just one. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My role in the community. I have been fortunate enough to give back to those who have helped me get to where I am today. I’m happiest when I’m…Standing in front of a canvas, looking down at my paint-stained hands.

Halverson & Mahlen, P.C. wishes to congratulate attorneys John Wright and Tom Mahlen for their selection as outstanding business professionals in the Billings “40 Under Forty” Halverson & Mahlen continues its dedication to providing individuals, businesses, and insurers with ethical, efficient and effective legal representation throughout Montana in a wide variety of practice areas, including commercial/agriculture litigation, construction litigation, insurance coverage and bad faith, products liability, personal injury, employer liability, and fire/arson cases.

www.hglaw.net • (406) 652-1011 1001 S. 24th Street West, Creekside Suite 301 Billings, MT Billingsbusiness

February 2015

Dawn M. Rollinger mechanical engineer, Con’eer Engineering Growing up in Butte, Dawn Rollinger always showed a knack for math and science. In one of her early science projects, she tested several different laundry detergents to see if their stain-fighting abilities lived up to the advertising hype. Unfortunately, this clever bit of kid science has been lost. “I can’t remember which one was best,” she said. “I think different ones did better on different kinds of stains, but you’d think I would remember that.” Rolliner parlayed her math and science aptitude into an engineering degree from Montana Tech. Rollinger works as a mechanical engineer at Con’eer Engineering in Billings. Much of her job involves designing heating and cooling systems. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: My first job out of college was work-

ing for a construction management firm on the Clinton Library in Little Rock, Ark. It was a great, challenging experience, but in the end, I didn’t want a job that would move me from state to state with every project, and I had a strong desire to get back to Montana. But, I really enjoyed the construction industry. I then got a job in Bozeman working for an engineering firm. They were not looking for an engineer/designer at the time, so I got my foot in the door as part-time administrative staff and worked up to mechanical designer from there. I eventually moved to Sioux Falls, S.D., and worked from home for three years and became a professional engineer. Then the poor economy hit our industry and I had to begin looking for a new gig. I found a home at Con’eer pretty quickly, and very excitedly packed up and headed back to the Big Sky state.

Age: 34 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Pork Chop John’s What I’m reading now: “Time Management From the Inside Out” Liked this movie: “My Cousin Vinny” Biggest passion outside of work: Running for T-shirts (local road races) in the summer, and snowboarding in the winter

What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Proving myself as a female in a male-dominated industry. I feel that women have to work harder to be taken seriously. You also have to have tough skin in this industry, which can be hard at times. What’s the best business advice you have received? Lead by example. Don’t ask of others what you would not do yourself. Who gave you that advice? It’s something I have learned from

great mentors that I have had in my life. If there is a deadline that means working late or on the weekends, a good leader is right there with you, hammering out a project. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I’d like to volunteer in programs for our youth and encourage others to as well. I don’t think the youth of today have enough positive role models, and I think we should all take responsibility for that, even

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Dawn Rollinger enjoys shredding the slopes when she’s not working at Con’eer Engineering.

if it means starting with our own children. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? I measure success in how much I enjoy going to work every day. I enjoy the work, the relationships, the challenges, so that when the paycheck comes, that’s just a bonus. Which living person do you most admire? This is hard to nar-

row down to one person. I admire people the most that overcome adversity to achieve their dreams or goals. There is way too much entitlement in the world today. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement is yet to come. I’m happiest when I’m … with my husband and kids (and dogs) enjoying the great outdoors.

Darrick Rose president, Industrail Coating Solutions Inc. With the local manufacturing sector humming along at a faster clip than it has for years, the typical end-of-year business slowdown never materialized as 2014 came to a close, said Darrick Rose. “The seasonality of the business usually shows up and we slow down in December, but we haven’t seen that,” said Rose, who is president of Industrial Coating Solutions Inc., a powder-coating business. “If anything, we’re up. It’s because of the economy, with more fabrication and manufacturing going on.” Powder coating is an environmentally friendly finishing process. As the name implies, the finish is sprayed onto metal as a dry powder. Then it transforms into a tough, flexible finish after the object is placed in a special oven and heated to 400 degrees for about 10 minutes. The process doesn’t generate odors or volatile organic com22

I February 2015

Age: 39 Family: Married First paid job: Pumping gas at grandparents’ gas station What I’m reading: “Truth in Translation” by Jason David BeDuhn Liked this movie: “Master and Commander” Biggest passion outside of work: Helping others learn Bible truths

gas and washing cars in high school, to waiting tables and selling jewelry in college, I learned a wide range of service techniques and Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK principles that can be used in any With the manufacturing sector on the upswing, business has been busy at Indutrial industry. After college I entered the Coating Solutions, says Darrick Rose, president garage door industry, starting as an installer, and progressively learning pounds, which can be generated objects as small as bicycle parts the many facets of business until I when spraying wet paint. and as large as dump truck boxes was eventually promoted to manIndustrial Coating Solutions and 100-barrel oil tanks that barely age my own store. After 10 years can powder coat any metal object fit in the oven. of this service I moved to Billings to that fits into the curing oven, which Describe how you got where assist my father-in-law transition is 10 feet wide, 10 feet tall and 30 you are in your work today: into retirement. feet long. From mowing lawns and pumping What’s the biggest challenge gas in junior high school, pumping you face in your job? Finding The company has coated

quality people to be a part of our team. What’s the best business advice you have received? “A rolling stone collects no moss.” This means to me; don’t jump around from job to job and home to home. Build a good reputation and deep roots wherever you are. Then people will know they can rely on you. That you will be there for them, for the ‘long haul,’ to do what you say when you say you will do it. Who gave you that advice? My grandfather, R.J. Rose.

Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I hope to motivate others and give them the opportunities to legitimately help themselves. Sadly we live in a culture that promotes self-entitlement and handouts. People deserve to feel the sense of satisfaction from doing a job well, and earning the rewards that life has to offer. Which living person do you most admire? My father. He is a jack of all trades and I consider him balanced, reasonable and wellrounded in his interests and education. Dad also has a witty sense of humor that will catch you off guard if you’re not paying attention. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Hiking Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. I’m happiest when I’m… In my garage tinkering with various projects. Billingsbusiness

Jeff Rosenberry associate dean of students, Montana State University Billings Jeff Rosenberry, associate dean of students at Montana State University Billings, says getting to know students is the best part of his job. Whenever Roseberry has a spare minute during the day, you’re more than likely to find him conversing with students at lunch or over coffee. “When students graduate, we want them to be successful academically, but we also want them to be successful personally, socially and to be developed leaders as they go out into our community,” Rosenberry said. “The student contact I have every day is the most important piece of my job.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: The work I do today was instilled and inspired in me as an undergraduate student attending Central Washington University. I had my fair share of struggles in college and it was my residence hall staff that helped me realize my potential and the impact I could make. I spent three years as a resident assistant and two years serving on student government. During that time several ad-

ministrators nurtured something in me that allowed me to see my potential for working in higher education. From there I followed a path to make this dream a reality. I attended graduate school at Colorado State University and came to MSUB originally as a hall director. I quickly found my passion for working with residential students and worked diligently to develop as a young leader in my field. With bumps along the way, I began to expand my portfolio of student support and have since become a generalist in the field of student affairs and supporting that same potential in my students that someone saw in me. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? The biggest challenge in my job is also the part that I look forward to most, which is the unknown of what a given day will look like. We know that higher education is facing budget restraints and an ever-changing generation of students impacted by war, technology and much more. These are things what, for the most part, we can project and plan for. When someone says you need to look at reducing your budget, you do it. It is the

Age: 32 Family: Single First paid job: Paper boy What I’m reading: “The Hunger Games” series. Liked this movie: “Apollo 13” Biggest passion outside of work: Being the voice of the Yellowjackets and giving the web stream play by play for all men’s and women’s basketball games. It’s my little slice of ESPN.

unknown of my day that is my biggest challenge. We never know what the next call will be and what the next student will present with. From first-year transition issues and mental health concerns on the rise for students, the unknown is hard to predict and it presents challenges that are sometimes unimaginable when it finally comes to a head. I purposely keep a couple hours open on my calendar each day because I know that I will get an unknown call or a student will walk through the door and need to chat about something, big or small. That is the best I can do in planning for it, which is an exciting challenge to have. What’s the best business advice you have received? My world revolves more around the business of humans,

as opposed to profit and loss margins, but the best piece of advice I have received that has helped me do my job is from my grandfather who told me growing up to “step up, work hard and make a difference.” While this is a simple phrase, it carries much weight and is a pinnacle of my success at this point in my young career. Who gave you that advice? My grandfather, Harold Gene Minkler. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: We have a big problem in this community and that is the increasingly growing number of homeless youth in Yellowstone County. We need to be doing more to support our youth and ensure they have a safe place to live, learn and grow. It sickens me to see youth moving from couch to couch or simply

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Jeff Rosenberry works to improve the college experience for students at Montana State University Billings. On occasion, he has even donned the Yellowjacket mascot costume.

sleeping on the streets. We need our community to believe in our youth and work toward bringing them up to be more successful and have the chance to become educated and give back to their community. There is no silver bullet on how to do it, but it needs to be on the minds of citizens and we need to take a look at the bigger picture. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? There is no rubric to success, especially in a job like mine that changes each day. I feel most successful when I am able to keep a student in school and help them reach their potential. Which living person do you most admire? An employee of mine, Alison Adams. She is an

amazing person who continually transforms as a leader on our campus and in the community. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Obtaining an undergraduate and graduate degree. I had a lot of things working against me and I made some poor decisions early on in my journey through higher education. I was thankful, however, to see the need to make positive change in the world around me and enhanced my success by becoming a great leader who is able to lean on the human side of life in my day to day. I’m happiest when I’m… able to help people realize their potential and support that growth through building intentional relationships and providing sound mentorship.

Ideas transform communities The greatest accomplishments start with the smallest details. This is where great begins. Congratulations, Colt Moedl!

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February 2015

Heather Sather attorney, Heather W. Sather, PLLC Heather Sather loves to see children reunited with their parents. In addition to running a solo law practice, Sather works as a guardian ad litem in Yellowstone County. The role of a guardian ad litem is to represent children in cases involving child abuse and neglect. There is no shortage of work. Sather typically works with more than 100 children. “As attorneys we are able to make motions on behalf of the children,” Sather said. “Generally, we make recommendations that are in the best interest of the child during the course of the case: things like time to go home, therapies the child might need, or recommendations for a parent’s treatment plan in order to be reunited. The goal is always to get kids home with their

just people, doing the best we can. If more people in our community were able to “walk in others’ shoes” I believe that in and of itself would improve our community. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Thank-you notes mean success to me. My relationlaw school I worked as a law clerk buy the work. ships with the people I encounter and then was an associate at a Who gave you that advice? through work. Feeling proud of law firm. Desiring more flexibility Kelly Varnes, of the Hendrickson telling my two daughters that I after my second child, I went out Law Firm — a mentor of mine. “help kids.” on my own as a solo practitioner Here’s what I’d like to do to Which living person do you upon securing a contract to serve improve my community: I would most admire? My mom — Kathy Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK as an attorney guardian ad litem like to continue to emphasize James — and my grandpa — Bill In addition to being an attorney, Heather Sather is also a dancer. for children in abuse and neglect empathy in situations that seem Kapptie (I can’t pick one) unfamiliar to us. When I started torneys, judges and social workers cases in Yellowstone County. parents.” What do you consider your What’s the biggest challenge representing children as a guardian greatest achievement? My two Resolving such cases requires work together. It’s nice to have a you face in your business? The ad litem, I had very little undersingular goal. It’s very rewarding teamwork from many people, kids when kids go home and when you biggest challenge I face is a work/ standing of poverty, drug addiction Sather said. I’m happiest when I’m… life balance. and domestic violence. But, I think watching my kids dance, dancing see that parents are thriving.” “There’s a goal to what we’re What’s the best business the best thing I can do in these Describe how you got where doing, which is child safety and myself or when I’m on a patio with you are in your work today: After advice you have received? Don’t cases is recognize that we are all reuniting families. I love that atmy husband and/or friends. Age: 34 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Sears customer service department What I’m reading: “The Nazi Officer’s Wife” Liked this movie: “Silver Linings Playbook” Biggest passion outside of work: Dance

Joshuwa Sayer owner, designer, Response Design Joshuwa Sayer frequently showed promise in art classes during middle and high school. But it wasn’t until a few years later that he fully realized that potential. “I had an art teacher in high school who said, ‘You should become an architect,’ ” Sayer said. “But I wasn’t sure I could do it. I wasn’t really great at math, and I wasn’t a great high school student if that’s what it takes.” Sayer started out studying business at Montana State University. But enrolling in an introductory class in architecture helped him rekindle the creativity that first showed up years earlier. The curriculum was challenging, but Sayer stuck it out. Many MSU architecture students end up pulling all-nighters in order to get class projects done on time. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: After graduating from MSU I worked for JGA Architects for 4 1/2 years, working primarily on I February 2015 24

school and hospital projects. I left JGA to partner with my father in his commercial painting business. The idea was twofold: help my father retire and transition out of the paint business and build capital to start Response Designs. My wife and I had dreamed up the business after we had graduated from architecture school. That was in 2008. My intention was to transition out of Sayer Paint in two years. However, after the great recession there was little going on in construction so I ended up running Sayer Paint for four years. The painting business was very difficult because prices had gotten so depressed. Two years ago my wife and I decided that it was time for a change. Building seemed to be making a bit of a comeback so I thought that I would put the dream of owning my own business on hold and go get a job in an architecture firm. After a discussion with Wes

Age: 39 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Paper route What I’m reading: “A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius” Dave Eggers Liked this movie: The Royal Tennenbaums Biggest passion outside of work: Family and fly fishing

Krivonen, a structural engineer and wise friend, he recommended I go and talk to Jeff Robertson of Homesite Designers. I ended up doing contract work for him and Aline Drafting and Design. Jeff gave me the freedom to pursue my own work while also helping with his projects. We continue to run parallel businesses and collaborating on projects. He has become a mentor and a friend. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? From space planning to construction details, design is a constant exercise in problem solving. The real challenge is to listen to the client and begin to understand how

you can wrap a home around their specific lifestyle and needs. What’s the best business advice you have received? Bring your talents and knowledge, leave your own aspirations and ego; make everything about the client. Who gave you that advice? Jeff Robertson. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I would like to use my area of expertise to help revitalize parts of our city that are underserved. I have lived on the South Side for 10 years now and see so much potential between there and the downtown area. I will feel that I have achieved real success when I can buy an

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Joshuwa Sayer showed glimpses of artistic talent while he was in middle school and high school. An introductory class in architecture helped him reach his potential.

old building and fix it up. I love to foster a community between designers, craftsmen and builders, a group whose competitive nature can often breed exclusivity. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Returning clients and referrals. That is how you know that you have met or exceeded a client’s expectations. Which living person do you most admire? I am constantly inspired by people close to me who are creating and doing work

that they are passionate about. Jeff Robertson of Homesite Designers, Nick Pancheau of Pare Furniture and Collaborative Design Architects, Andy Parent of Ironoxe, to name a few. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Remodeling a 100-year-old home and managing to stay married. I’m happiest when I’m… On the construction site watching a design take shape, and of course on the Yellowstone River. Billingsbusiness

Kelsea Schreiner account executive, Kinetic Agency Let’s say you run a business or a nonprofit. You understand that it’s important to communicate with your customers and that you need some way to reach out to find new ones. But you’re still a little in the dark about the best way to do it. A few years ago, you shelled out good money to that college kid who put together your website. But the Internet magic seems to have worn off. “What’s a Twitter?” you say when the discussion turns to social media. Kelsea Schreiner just might be able to help. She’s an account executive for Kinetic Agency, a Billings marketing and advertising firm that also describes itself as a creative communications firm. Schreiner spends much of her time helping clients improve how they communicate with customers, and occasionally with their own employees. “I interface with clients. But I also do strategy. Clients come to me and say, “I need to do something,’ ” Schreiner said. “But just because we are a small shop, I also do a lot of our web development and put together a strategy for them.” Clients must fine tune their

message and their method of communicating in order to be more effective. A company working in the booming Bakken oil field will have a much different way of communicating with its clients than a nonprofit that works with the elderly, she said. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I’m a big believer in balance and setting boundaries. I take risks and ask for what I need. When I feel unbalanced about successfully managing my work and home life, I try to take an objective step back to determine where I’m unbalanced and how I can remedy it by setting boundaries for myself — then actively enforcing those boundaries. Thus far, I feel this strategy has brought me bigger clients, more interesting, challenging projects and opportunities to hone my skills through furthering education. Many times a client or a project simply needs me to take the lead, make decisions and execute manageable, calculated steps to completion and I’m happy to do that. What’s the biggest challenge in your business? Creativity is highly subjective; as such, it’s challenging to take an idea or

Age: 29 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Odd jobs around the house What I’m reading: “Wool” by Hugh Howey Liked this movie: “Motorcycle Diaries” Biggest passion outside of work: Planning trips.

a concept that is seen vividly in a client’s mind’s eye and successfully translate it into reality. What may seem to be a good idea could be anything but when produced on paper. Our challenge is to develop a client’s idea or our idea into a functioning and strategically sound creative concept. My job as an account executive is to find the balance where both unique creativity and solid strategy can coexist. What’s the best business advice you have received? “There are so many people that use ‘following your dreams’ as an excuse not to work. When in reality, following your dreams, successfully, is nothing but work.” Who gave you that advice? I recently watched a videocast of Brandon Stanton of Humans of New York speak to students and that piece of advice really stuck out to me as a sometimes unpopular reality. Here’s what I’d like to do to

improve my community: I would like to continue to love Billings’ downtown and help give it the support it needs to thrive. Our downtown is a historical gem and in the six years I’ve worked here (currently on Broadway) I feel it has strangely ebbed and flowed in terms of forward momentum. Some years it seems to grow exponentially and other years (such as this year) it seems to retract. I feel that companies need to trust and participate in their downtown and continue to improve it. Doing my part means actively participating in events and businesses, talking highly of the area, and ultimately not withdrawing when it seems odds are against us. So many folks in Billings do not do life downtown and they are missing so much by doing so. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? I feel successful when I leave the office feeling like I did the best job I could for my

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Kelsea Schreiner studied Spanish and international commerce while completing her marketing degree at Montana State University.

clients. This could mean anything from a website launch to an accepted strategic plan to just having a good conversation with a client or workmate. I try to doublecheck that I’ve done everything I could to be kind and accountable over the work I manage. Which living person do you most admire? Likely to sound cliché, the person I most admire is my husband, Chad. We’ve been together 13 years and married 6 ½. Together we’ve journeyed through the struggles of an injury taking immense amounts of strength and perseverance as boyfriend and girlfriend. Now, as husband and wife, we know that suffering is as big an aspect of our lives as happiness. I am grateful to say I have someone who believes in me, loves me, instills

in me faith and hope and who I get to dream big with — and also someone who suffers well with me when the time comes. What do you consider your greatest achievement? After nearly losing my leg in a motorcycle accident in 2007, I had the opportunity to relearn how to walk. It was defeating to dream about walking and running but wake up being able to do neither. Doctors said I would likely walk with a limp, never wear heels again and use a cane. I did, but only for a short time before I learned that nothing was holding me back but myself. After many surgeries, years of physical therapy and a lot of hard work, I can say my greatest achievement is waking up each morning, getting up, and walking.

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February 2015

Ryan Schwanke staff physician, Department of Family Medicine, Billings Clinic Ryan Schwanke’s interest in medicine began percolating while he was still in high school. “I really like animals, and I thought that maybe I wanted to be a vet. I even worked in a vet clinic in high school,” Schwanke said. “But I’m allergic to cats.” To make matters worse, Schwanke learned that he’s also allergic to horses. “It would be tough to be a veterinarian in Montana if you’re allergic to cats and horses,” he said. Faced with that reality, Schwanke began to route his career path toward medical school. “I have a brother-in-law who is an orthopedic surgeon, so he was influential in my decision-making process.” Schwanke said attending Carroll College prepared him for medical school at the University of Washington. “When I first went to medical

like to see us become healthier by eating better, staying more active and keeping up on preventative screenings. I would also like to become more involved with the community through opportunities not associated with Billings Clinic. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success you face in your job? Losing a tana Familiy Medicine Residency in your job? By relationships. The program at RiverStone Health. That patient. I tend to develop close rela- more I feel like I know someone tionships with many of my patients, and know what I can do to help led to his career at Billings Clinic, where he is a staff physician in the so when one dies it is difficult. them, the more successful I’ll be in What’s the best business Department of Family Medicine. doing that. Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Describe how you got where advice you have received? A Which living person do you Ryan Schwanke, a family physician at Billings Clinic, focuses on helping patients stay you are in your work today: Four patient’s social history is a longitu- most admire? My father. He has healthy rather than waiting until they get sick. dinal process, not a one-time event. done so much for me and the rest years of college at Carroll College, four years of medical school at the Knowing your patients and what is of my family. He is a remarkable ing them after they’re sick.” school, I shadowed a family University of Washington School of going on in their lives really affects and generous man. Throughout his education, medicine doctor,” he said. “I really Medicine, three years of residency how you care for them. What do you consider your liked seeing every age. I’m the type Schwanke made staying in MonWho gave you that advice? at Montana Family Medicine Resigreatest achievement? My three tana a priority. “I thought I would do dency here in Billings, five years in Dr. Tom James, my associate of guy who didn’t want to hunker children. down into one type of specialty. The a residency outside of Montana and practice with a ton of great support, program director in residency. I’m happiest when I’m… come back to practice.” other thing I like is trying to keep Here’s what I’d like to do to spending quality time with my hard work, and perseverance. What’s the biggest challenge improve my community: I would family. He was accepted to the Monpeople healthy, as opposed to treatAge: 35 Family: Married, three children First paid job: My own lawn mowing business What I’m reading: “Lone Survivor” by Marcus Lutrell Liked this movie: “The Way Way Back” Biggest passion outside of work: Montana Grizzly Football

Dax Simek Billings land development group leader, Morrison Maierle Inc. Fairy tale heroine Goldilocks preferred porridge that was not too hot, not too cold, but just right. These days, building activity in the Billings area seems to follow a similar tone: not crazy busy and not too slow. “Billings has slow and steady growth,” said Dax Simek, Billings land development group leader for Morrison Maierle Inc. Simek’s group is involved in the process of developing raw land into subdivisions. For Simek, no two days are quite the same. “We do everything from commercial site plans to full residential subdivisions, so there’s a pretty wide variety,” Simek said. Growing up, Simek had an interest in math and science and received a degree in civil engineering from Montana State University. In college, Simek also had an interest in environmental science. 26

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Age: 39 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Paper boy, Billings Gazette What I’m reading now: “The Language of God” by Francis Collins Liked this movie: “Unforgiven” Biggest passion outside of work: Family

“My degree was more toward the environmental side. But when I got out, there wasn’t much of an opportunity for that,” Simek said. “I’ve always liked real estate, so land development was a good way to mix both.” Simek described the biggest challenges in his job this way: “Land development projects are pretty fast paced. Just trying to meet the developers’ schedules and expectations can be a challenge. The city of Billings is one of our biggest clients as well, so we’re

trying to balance the needs of the developers and also keep the city happy,” he said. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I’ve worked for both public- and private-sector clients. From that diversity of work, I found myself drawn to land development projects. When I started at Morrison-Maierle, they didn’t have anybody in land development. After working on municipal projects and seeing an opportunity to take on a few smaller commercial projects, I

was given the opportunity to start up a land development group in the Billings office. I took the challenge and have enjoyed that decision ever since. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Getting a foothold in a market that was already well served. What’s the best business advice you have received? Don’t let money guide you. Make sure you enjoy your job and everything else will fall into place. Who gave you that advice? My father. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I’d like to refocus on the downtown area. DBA/DBP and EBURD are doing great things to promote growth and incentivize development in the area. Increasing the residential base and bringing in more community service amenities would

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK Dax Simek of Morrison Maierle Inc. says meeting deadlines is one of the big challenges of his job.

reinvigorate downtown and make it the social and business hub it once was. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? The amount of business I get from return clients. Our group strives to provide outstanding customer service by meeting our clients’ accelerated timelines and tight budgets. The biggest compliment I receive from a client is the opportunity to work with them on

another project. Which living person do you most admire? Tie – My father and mother. Both are wonderful role models and provide astute advice on navigating life’s ups and downs. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Having a great job and being able to live and work in a place that I love. I’m happiest when I’m… heading out on vacation with my family. Billingsbusiness

Laurie Smith Director of Hospital Operations for Medical/Surgical Services, Billings Clinic Laurie Smith’s nursing career has taken her many places. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, she was part of a Billings Clinic contingent that traveled to Houston to treat people who had been displaced by the massive storm. Many of the victims were housed temporarily in the Astrodome. “A lot of people had chronic illnesses like blood pressure, diabetes or cardiac conditions. Most of them had lost their medications or their medical records,” Smith said. “We worked long hours trying to get them back on their feet.” Smith credits her mother, Jane Capser, for providing the inspiration that led to her career in nursing. “She was a combat medic in the Army during the Gulf War and she also worked as an LPN in the Army,” Smith said. Smith took the first step toward her current career when she became a certified nursing assistant at age 16 while living in Harlowton. After high school, she earned a certification as a licensed practical nurse. After realizing

her love for the profession, she went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Later, she earned a master’s degree in nursing. Smith said the CNA certification provides a good entry point for people interested in medical careers. “It’s a good way to make sure you’re making the right move,” said Smith, who is now director of hospital operations for medical/surgical services at Billings Clinic. “When you have worked in other roles, you learn to appreciate those roles a lot more than if you’ve never walked a mile in those shoes.” Smith did an internship in an emergency department in Anchorage, Alaska, after completing her bachelor’s degree. At the time, her husband was stationed there in the Army. After the Smiths returned to Montana, she took a job at the emergency department at Billings Clinic. “At the time, I decided I loved the emergency department and thought I would never leave. But then one of the managers started getting me interested

Age: 39 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Certified Nurse’s Assistant What I’m reading: “Straight A Leadership” and “The Maze Runner” Liked this movie: “The Breakfast Club” Biggest passion outside of work: Spending time with family and camping

in leadership.” She received a series of promotions until she moved into her current position a little more than a year ago. “My job involves helping to ensure we have safe nursing practices, that we are looking at the latest evidence-based practices, and are following all regulatory statutes,” Smith said. “We have a lot of certifications for specialty areas, chest pain, stroke care, total joint care.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I was the nursing student in the very last row of my nursing management class. I threw the book on the desk next to me and said, “Never!” Little did I know that others would see something in me that I could not. I got to where I am today by hav-

Integrity • Commitment • Respect • Excellence

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Dax Simek From all of us!

315 North 25th Street Billings, MT | 406.656.6000 Billingsbusiness

ing excellent mentors in the field of nursing. I have been fortunate enough to be part of a team that has fostered my personal and professional growth. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? The biggest challenge that I face in my job is hours in the day. My family comes first and I definitely work hard to balance work and home life. I always make time to meet my family needs first. At the same time, I have many ideas and initiatives that I am excited and passionate about with regard to improving quality and safety for our patients as well as fostering the continued growth of nursing as a profession that the day sometimes gets away from me. What’s the best business advice you have received?

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Laurie Smith took the first steps toward her nursing career while she was still in high school.

Stay ahead of the game. Always have a plan and know who you are working with. Who gave you that advice? My grandmother. She was a huge influence on me in ways too numerous to count. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I want to continue to partner with Billings Clinic and our community through various avenues. I have always loved being a part of interacting with people in Billings and helping to spread the word around self-care and healthy habits. I have volunteered at events that promote heart health, safe teen driving, and overall physical health. Every time that I have, I feel that I have made a difference for our community.

That is a great feeling. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? I measure success by the interactions that I have with our patients at Billings Clinic. I am fulfilled by the positive difference that we as a team make for hospitalized patients and their families as well as the community. Which living person do you most admire? The nurse. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement is being part of a happy, healthy family. My husband and my two children are the best thing I have ever been a part of. I’m happiest when I’m…On a beach or camping.

Congratulations

Kelly Melius

We’re proud of all you do to help families and children living with disabilities.

Easter Seals-Goodwill Northern Rocky Mountain Inc. 1537 Avenue D, Suite 115, Billings MT • 406-252-9600 • www.esgw.org February 2015

Robbie Smith general manager, Bob Smith Motors During the summer of 2011, 12 boys from the Big Sky All-Stars baseball team captivated Montanans’ attention with a historymaking run that ended just one game shy of the Little League World Series championship game in South Williamsport, Pa. The Billings team was the first from Montana to win the Northwest Regional Championship and advance to the World Series. The whole state was rooting for them. Robbie Smith, whose oldest son, Dawson, was a member of the team, said the accomplishment was noteworthy because nobody expected a lot from the Billings squad. “It started from being a goal of going to the regional in San Bernadino, Calif., to getting a television spot on ESPN,” Smith said. “Most of the kids are in that age group only once, so you don’t

Age: 38 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Burger King What I’m reading: “What’s the Future of Business” by Brian Solis Liked this movie: “Remember the Titans,” “Tombstone” Biggest passion outside of work: Traveling with my family, mostly for youth sports.

usually see the same players going back,” Smith said. During their playoff run, the All-Stars emerged into a cohesive unit. Meanwhile, parents had a chance to bond and cheer on their kids, while having to negotiate with hectic travel arrangements, said Smith, a third-generation car dealer who is general manager of Bob Smith Motors. Dawson and his younger brother, Dayton, are still active in sports. They have been playing a

lot of hockey lately. Smith played American Legion baseball for the Billings Scarlets and still stays connected to baseball as a member of the Legion’s board and a member of the Billings Mustangs Boosters Club. “I had really good coaches who taught me more than how to throw a baseball,” Smith said. “They taught us how to conduct ourselves on the road and how to conduct ourselves before the game and during the national

anthem. Those are the things that stick with you.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: Our dealership is a family business, so you could say I was born into it. I am very fortunate to be the oldest of the third generation of our business. My father put me to work as a salesperson. I had a great mentor in Denny Renier. It was made clear to me from day one that being a family member didn’t guarantee advancement in the company. Time, effort and production were essential. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Most people don’t necessarily rate car buying or servicing high on their list of enjoyable activities, so it is our ongoing mission to provide an enjoyable customer experience. What’s the best business advice you have received? I

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK Robbie Smith, general manager of Bob Smith Motors, is a third generation car dealer and a long-time sports enthusiast.

don’t think it was meant to be business advice, but I love the quote “The name on the front of the jersey means a helluva lot more than the name on the back.” Who gave you that advice? That was a quote from Herb Brooks Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? When I have a customer take the time to seek me out

to let me know how much they appreciate the outstanding service they received from an individual in our organization. This happens nearly daily, and it brings a smile to my face. Which living person do you most admire? Not one in particular. There are so many people I know who have admirable qualities.

Jessica Sprattler program coordinator, Friendship House A former Billings resident who returned for a funeral decided to pay a visit to Friendship House, a nonprofit providing after-school and summer enrichment programs for low-income families. As Jessica Sprattler, program coordinator at Friendship House, showed the man around, he was overcome by old memories. “We have a bunch of pictures hanging up in the basement. I took him down there, and he just started crying,” Sprattler said. “He said Friendship House saved his life, and I started getting teary-eyed talking to him, too.” Sprattler is proud of the services Friendship House provides for the community. “South Side kids are a unique group of kids that stole my heart. They’re just so loving, and they want somebody to love them back,” Sprattler said. “A lot of our kids come from difficult backgrounds. But others come from 28

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some really amazing families and just need a little extra help.” The after-school programs that Friendship House provides can be a financial lifeline. “It means that parents can hold a job because they don’t have to worry about child care. Our parents really appreciate what we do. We have some of the greatest parents whose kids come through here.” Likewise, Friendship House’s summer program helps kids stay engaged over the summer so that they don’t fall behind when a new school year begins. Sprattler studied education at the University of Montana. But working at Friendship House convinced her to switch her focus to human services as she works to complete her degree at Montana State University Billings. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I originally started as a teacher’s aide and quickly advanced to

trying to save the world, staff turnover. Many of the people we hire are education majors from MSU-Billings and Rocky. It’s a great learning experience for them, but a real challenge for me when they get hired on with the school district. However, they always come back for our summer program. What’s the best business advice you have received? Don’t sweat the small stuff. Do your best and if you fall, pick yourself up and try again. Who gave you that advice? My mother. Here’s what I’d like to do to where I am now. I have worked in improve my community: I would every position here at Friendship like to help provide our community House, which I think is vital to know just how the whole organiza- with information of all the great resources our community has to tion works. Yes, I’ve even cleaned offer. A lot of people have no idea the toilets. Experience, education, that Friendship House exists. There and leadership and support from supervisors, current and past, has are so many organizations that help others that a lot of people do really guided me along the way. What’s the biggest challenge not even know of and I think it is vital to our community as a whole you face in your job? Besides Age: 28 Family: Single, one child First paid job: Babysitting What I’m reading: “Strengths Finder 2.0” by Tom Rath Liked this movie: “Frozen” Biggest passion outside of work: Trying to be the best mom to my 3-year-old

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Jessica Sprattler, program coordinator at Friendship House, is proud of the progress that families have made with help from Friendship House.

to spread the word of all the great things happening. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Happy and healthy children and families. If they keep coming back, we are doing our job right. We currently have 92 of 100 spots filled in our program, which is the most we have ever had. Watching grades go up, self-esteem improve, and basic life skills grow are some of the greatest

successes. I truly have the most rewarding career. I have watched so many children and families blossom over the last 6.5 years and that has been the best part. Which living person do you most admire? My parents — Mark and Kathy Sprattler. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My daughter. I’m happiest when I’m… with my family and friends. Billingsbusiness

Martha Stahl president and chief executive, Planned Parenthood of Montana Martha Stahl grew up hearing her mother share stories from the early days of the culture wars. In the early 1960s, before the Supreme Court took up the issue of reproductive rights, doctors frequently refused to dispense contraceptives to single women. College students avoided the restriction by passing around a wedding ring and making up an alias before heading to the doctor, her mother said. “Our household had a very strong social justice bent,” said Stahl, who is president and chief executive of Planned Parenthood of Montana. “I grew up with Ms. Magazine around the house and hearing the stories of the bad old days. So women’s rights and reproductive rights were always something that was very important to me on a philosophical level.” In 2013, and again in 2014, Planned Parenthood of Montana was among three Montana agencies to receive federal grants to help Montanans sign up for health care under the Affordable Care Act. Stahl said Planned Parenthood continues to play an essential role in delivering health care services. “I believe that access to health care, including reproductive health care for women and men, is what allows us to live our dreams and do the things we want to do,” Stahl said. “So I see my career track as approaching the issues of poverty and education, and social justice from one aspect of it, which is reproductive health care.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: I started my career working in fundraising for a domestic violence and sexual assault program in Austin, Texas. I went on to work in fundraising

Billingsbusiness

and alumni relations at my undergraduate alma mater, Sarah Lawrence College. When I met my husband, we were living 250 miles apart. As I looked for jobs where he was living, I decided I needed to work for a missiondriven organization. When a position opened at the Planned Parenthood affiliate where he lived, I jumped at the chance to work for a cause I deeply believed in. I worked at Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York for 10 years before moving to Montana to take the helm here at PPMT. I credit my passion for the mission, and several wonderful mentors, for getting me to where I am now. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? The biggest challenge is helping the staff and board of PPMT navigate the constant and dramatic changes in health care today. The shifting landscape of health care delivery and payment systems, along with changes in technology, make for many opportunities that we have to be ready to take advantage of. At the same time, making sure that we are offering services that will meet our patients’ needs is an ever-present concern. Luckily, I love change, and I know that Planned Parenthood offers the very best in reproductive and sexual health care services — services that are preventive, primary care. What’s the best business advice you have received? “Do only the things that only you can do.” Who gave you that advice? Years ago, when I became a supervisor for the first time, I went to a day-long management training seminar that was incredibly boring, but this one piece of advice really hit home

Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK Maratha Stahl is president and chief executive of Planned Parenthood of Montana.

Age: 39 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Communications intern, ESPN. What I’m reading: “The Burgess Boys” by Elizabeth Strout and about 15 back issues of “The New Yorker” Liked this movie: “Snowpiercer” Biggest passion outside of work: Food!

for me. It’s about learning to delegate, but it is also about understanding what you can and cannot control. Being able to tell the difference between those things is the key to being successful while coping with lots of stressors. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I want to live in a place where factors like race, sex, socioeconomic class, religion, age, disability, gender identity or sexual orientation don’t impede on anyone’s chance to make a positive contribution to our community. In order to do that, we need to make sure everyone has their basic needs met — housing, health care, education. I think there is a lot of willingness here to work on that together. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? I feel the most

success when I can help others be successful. If I can break down external or internal barriers to making change, I feel truly satisfied. Which living person do you most admire? Temple Grandin, she is brilliant and creative and has helped completely change our understanding of both autism and animal science. I love her quote “The world needs all types of minds.” What do you consider your greatest achievement? My family. It feels amazing to see my two kids express empathy and exhibit kindness. My husband, Bill, and I are pretty darn proud of them. I’m happiest when I’m… Reading a book by the campfire after a day of fishing with the family, especially if good snacks and a local beer are close at hand.

February 2015

Tina Stinson owner Ca-Layla Boutique and Tina Stinson Photography One trick to capturing memorable portraits of newborn babies is to photograph them when they’re somewhere between three and 10 days old, says photographer Tina Stinson. “That window is good because the jaundice is gone and they’re eating well, but it’s just before they hit that growth spurt,” Stinson said. “They’re really pliable, and they can be really molded to look cute.” She has photographed sleeping babies nestled in boxes and baskets and cradled in the arms of a father dressed in camouflage Army fatigues. “It takes a lot of patience,” Stinson said, describing her approach to photographing newborns. “It helps to have some baby experience.” Stinson is owner of Tina Stinson Photography and a

downtown boutique, Ca-Layla. The store, located at 219 N. Broadway, specializes in clothing for babies and mothers. It’s named after her daughters, Calli and Layla. When photographing newborns, Stinson turns up the thermostat to 74 degrees and sometimes adds warmth from a space heater. “That way they’re nice and pink and they sleep well when they have nice full bellies.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: How I got to where I am today would be best attributed to many late nights brainstorming with my husband, countless checklists, great networking groups and hard work. Building two businesses that provide jobs in the community has been a great accomplishment. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? Having

Age: 34 Family: Married, two children First paid job: Dusting shelves in the local mercantile What I’m reading: Downtown Chic Liked this movie: Tammy Biggest passion outside of work: Family

enough time. I like to be present in our business even though we have grown immensely since we started. We have added more and more employees every year but I still like to be in the clients’ view and be the face behind it all. I have learned to let go of many things and to manage from a distance but I still enjoy working the store every now and then and I love working one-on-one with my photography clients. It’s time consuming but worth every second. What’s the best business

advice you have received? You can’t do it all. And you really can’t and keep any sort of sanity. I think every business owner finds their own balance and what works for one doesn’t necessarily work for another. But we all have to find our balance and let go of some things we simply don’t have time for. Who gave you that advice? My mom. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve my community: I would love to have more events downtown and more family-oriented

Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK After working in nursing, Tina Stinson decided to start her own photography business. Then she branched out to start Ca-Layla, a downtown boutique for babies and mothers.

businesses downtown, I feel it’s the heart of our community and we need to keep growing it. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? It’s pretty astonishing when I walk through my studio and think eight years ago I was operating out of my house in Laramie, Wyo. When I look around and see

my employees enjoying their job and clients happy with their experience, that is success to me. Which living person do you most admire? My mom. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My family. I’m happiest when I’m… skiing

Carrie Wright Chest Pain Center coordinator, Billings Clinic After completing a high-flying stint in the U.S. Air Force, Carrie Wright went looking for a career that would provide even more excitement. “I wasn’t ready to have a desk job,” Wright said. “In the Air Force I had a really fun, highadrenaline job, and I wanted to keep that sense of adventure.” She found plenty after becoming an emergency medical technician in Tucson, Ariz. “I was not afraid to handle that, but it got me into thinking about taking the next step and getting my nursing degree,” said Wright, whose current position is chest center coordinator for Billings Clinic. Her job involves making sure that cardiac patients receive the best possible care. Describe how you got where you are in your work today: Becoming a nurse was something that struck me early on. I grew up on a farm under the care of my grandparents. My grandfather was constantly ill, so alongside my 30

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grandmother, I helped take care of him. In addition to giving me my first nursing experience, their emotional support back to me provided me with the ammunition I needed to follow through with my goals despite the challenges my life presented. Caring for a family member also made me a better nurse. I know what my patients are going through. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? In my most recent role with emergency medicine, the biggest challenge is bringing awareness to patients within our region to call 911 if they are having chest pain. After recently reviewing 18 months of data, I’ve discovered that Montanans wait twice as long as the national average to seek emergency care when having chest pain. This lingering of time results in poor outcomes. With heart attacks, minutes matter, so regionally, we have some work to do when it comes to educating people. What’s the best business

Age: 37 Family: Single, two children First paid job: Working in a local food and gift shop What I’m reading: “Blood River to Berlin, the World War II Journal of an Army Medic” by Michael Freeland Liked this movie: “Hope Floats” Biggest passion outside of work: My two incredible boys

I have yet to hear a heart attack survivor say “I’m glad I waited to Portrait by JAMES WOODCOCK call 911”. Carrie Wright’s nursing career has provided plenty of challenges and rewards as well. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success Here’s what I’d like to do advice you have received? I’ve in your job? I have a unique opto improve my community: I’ll learned through observation that portunity to evaluate the patient’s continue to raise awareness of dobuilding on people’s strengths is experience from start to finish and how you build teams, and building mestic and sexual violence/abuse being able to utilize this informaas well as human trafficking. As a relationships with people is how you learn about their strengths. It’s survivor myself, I feel compelled to tion to educate our community as stand up and be a voice for women well as our entire health care team the best kind of investment you is very rewarding. and children victims of violence. can make. Which living person do you Also, I’ll continue to use my Who gave you that advice? new position as a platform to share most admire? Both of my boys Rich Mickelson and Beth Degenwithout a doubt. People who stories about the improved outhart are two people who have really showed me what that looks comes patients can see when they have been lucky enough to have kids can relate to the feeling that like and how it can be used to build present quickly to the emergency overwhelms us once they are born. room rather than waiting hours. successful teams.

Life truly starts and you actually understand the meaning of life once you create life. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Becoming a registered nurse was lifechanging for me. It has afforded me the opportunity to work with some of the smartest and most caring people I have ever met. It has also provided so many different opportunities to advocate for our patients whether as a bedside nurse, SANE nurse or now with quality research for cardiology. I’m happiest when I’m… outdoors riding my bike or vacationing. Billingsbusiness

John Larrimore Wright associate attorney, Halverson & Mahlen, P.C. ‘’The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers,’’ a line from Shakespeare’s Henry VI, was uttered by a character known as Dick the Butcher. Through the years, scholars have debated the meaning behind one of Shakespeare’s most quoted lines. Some believe it’s a blanket condemnation of the legal profession. Others argue that the character was a follower of Jack Cade, a rebel leader who advocated killing lawyers and disrupting law and order as part of a scheme that would allow him to grab the English throne. Billings attorney John Wright devoured Shakespeare while studying for an English degree at the University of South Carolina. Despite the obvious disdain for his future profession from the fictional Dick the Butcher, Wright said Shakespeare’s works are still relevant. Shakespeare was “one of the few things I didn’t really expect to enjoy. But I took a comedies and history class, and that class showed how timeless his writing was, how original it was, and how it still applies today,” Wright said. “That’s what really opened the door for me; when you see how much he came up with and the everyday idioms that we still use today,” he said. Wright moved west to attend the University of Montana Law School, and to ski. He said his liberal arts background

has proven useful in the legal profession. “It’s applied literature,” he said. “Sometimes it’s combative writing. There are theatrics, battles between champions. You are writing reams and reams. Your stuff gets out there. Sometimes it’s good, sometimes it’s bad.” Describe how you got where you are in your work today: Dedicated perseverance and the support of loved ones has been critical to all I have done. I also developed the grit necessary to succeed in competitive and hostile environments by helping steer a small business through the depths of the recession. This experience built the resourcefulness and adaptive qualities that have helped me excel in civil litigation. What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job? The practice of law is never just a full-time job; it spans every element of your life. In addition to the hours spent in the office, the practice, and in particular civil litigation, stays with you constantly. Waking up in the middle of the night thinking about deadlines, developing arguments in the shower, and Friday evening email bombs lobbed by opposing counsel all require consistent vigilance and the ability to find relaxation and peace in unforgiving circumstances. What’s the best business advice you have received? My father, a serial entrepreneur, once passed down advice

my community: I would like to see Billings take pride in itself as the economic and cultural epicenter of Montana. Critical to development of cultural pride is the continued revitalization of downtown Billings and its magnetism in attracting fresh, young folks to town. Aside from profit and loss, how do you measure success in your job? Leaving the office at the end of the day knowing you have helped someone deal with a serious problem and have gotten them good results. When a client is genuinely grateful for the work you provide, Photo illustration by JAMES WOODCOCK John Wright says his love for Shakespeare has come in handy in the legal profession.

there is no greater feeling. Which living person do you most admire? My father. He spent his life build-

Age: 29 Family: Married, one child First paid job: Washing cars What I’m reading: “Fourth of July Creek” Liked this movie: Marvel Cinematic Universe movies Biggest passion outside of work: Spending time outdoors

from my grandfather, a lawyer, preacher, businessman, and school superintendent: “All you need to know in life is the Bible, Shakespeare, and the law.” With this in mind, I structured my education and

career around these critical areas, striving to be well rounded and prepared for all life can throw — after all, nothing is new under the sun. Here’s what I’d like to do to improve

ing fresh ideas for new businesses as well as troubleshooting struggling ones. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My family. I’m happiest when I’m… Having an IPA after an exhausting day of skiing. Pounding through the trees chasing fresh powder will take it out of the best of them, and there is no greater feeling then pulling off your gloves after a long day and enjoying a crisp Montana craft beer.

Recognizing extraordinary efforts Wells Fargo proudly congratulates Justin Millet, Regional Bank Private Banker, on his selection as a 2015 40 Under Forty honoree. As a Wells Fargo team member for over 11 years, Justin has dedicated his career to helping his customers achieve financial success. He works with a broad team of professionals to help manage complex customer relationships and offer financial guidance. To start a conversation with Justin about how Wells Fargo may be able to help you achieve your financial goals, contact him at 406-657-3516 or visit the Billings Downtown banking store at 175 North 27th Street.

Billingsbusiness

February 2015

CONGRATULATIONS

Billings Business congratulates the 2015 40 Under Forty winners.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSPORS

E C L

NGRAVEABLES USTOM ASER

BILLINGS DOWNTOWN ROTARY

I February 2015

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