April 2025 Elevate Magazine Rapid City South Dakota
TABLE OF CONTENTS
April 2025 // Vol. 6 // Issue No. 4
35 AVERAGE AGE
Aaron Flahaut
Allie Geier-Barlow
Aly Quinn
Anjelica Sasse
Annelise Ewing
Goodman, Ed.D
Ashley Meggs
Audrey Nordine
Austin Eichacker
Bryan Mitchell
Chadwick Ratigan
Chami Senarath
Chelsey Groseclose
Corinne Perkins
David Wolf
Devin Constant
Dr. Gerrit Scheepers
Dr. Laura Rawlings
Dr. Whitnee Coy
Eric Nelson
Evan Walterman
Holly Glatt
Joshua Miranda
Katie Sandvig
Katy Odenbach
Kayla Klein
Kevin Kirschenmann
Kianna Binger
Markie Zacharias
Megan Batteen
Michaela Horn
Nate Jaime
Rachelle White
Sarah Houdek
Sarah J Davis
Skylar McKeith
Spencer Gossel
Traie Roberson
-Miles
Trista Vlcek
Tyson Steiger
Wesley Erickson
APRIL APRIL
THE FERRIS BUELLERS OF RAPID CITY
I think it was the great poet and philosopher Ferris Bueller who once said: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
This was in 1986. And it was right before he pulled off the greatest single-day joyride in high school history. Think about it—while the rest of us were just trying to survive algebra and find Mötley Crüe’s Theatre of Pain album, Ferris was outsmarting his principal, faking an elaborate illness, sweet-talking his way into a five-star restaurant, catching a Cubs game, and somehow leading a parade down the streets of Chicago.
If high school were battlefield, Ferris Bueller was a one-man special ops unit, out-executing the enemy with style, charm, and a cool tribute to the Beatles. All before the age of 19.
Welcome to this issue of Elevate, where we are featuring our own set of Ferris Buellers from the Black Hills, minus the whole skipping school bit. It’s our annual 40 Under 40 issue. And it happens to be our 5th anniversary issue as well. So, we’re not messing around; we’re only bringing the best.
ELEVATE
The young folks here have that same fearless, can’t-stopwon’t-stop energy. Sure, they’re technically showing up to work (unlike Ferris), but they’re also bending the rules, challenging old ways of thinking, and proving that success doesn’t always follow a straight line. They’re starting businesses, leading communities, inventing things we didn’t even know we needed, and still finding time to give back. Meanwhile, the rest of us are just trying to remember where we left our keys in the morning.
And let’s be honest—if any of these honorees did decide to play hooky for a day, they wouldn’t just be lounging on the couch. No, they’d be off networking their way into the VIP section, launching a startup from a coffee shop in the Black Hills, or somehow turning a casual afternoon into a career milestone.
These are the people making moves, seizing opportunities, and reminding us all that ambition—when mixed with a little creativity and a whole lot of determination—can take you anywhere. And while we can’t confirm if any of them have ever hijacked a parade float, we can confirm that they’re leading the way in their industries, proving that success favors those who are bold enough to chase it.
We encourage you to take Ferris Bueller’s advice: Look around. These movers and shakers are changing the game. And much like Ferris’s legendary day off, this issue goes by way too fast. So enjoy it…before it’s over.
Stay safe and God-speed.
Elevate is a monthly publication produced by Elevate Rapid City. It is the premier business magazine for the Black Hills region telling the stories that make our area unique and vibrant.
PO Box 747
Rapid City, SD 57709
605.343.1744
elevaterapidcity.com
PRESIDENT & CEO
Tom Johnson
SENIOR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT & PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR
Taylor Davis
SENIOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS DIRE CTOR
Shiloh Francis
SENIOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Lori Frederick
SENIOR PUBLIC POLICY DIRECTOR
Garth Wadsworth
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Liz Highland
EVENTS & MARKETING DIRECTOR
Rachel Nelson
WORKFORCE PLANNING DIRECTOR
Reese Niu
HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Laura Jones
ECOSYSTEM SUPPORT & PROPERTY MANAGER
Loni Reichert
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Kallie Ruland
BUSINESS PROSPECT MANAGER
Drew Staufer
CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER
Bailey Sadowsky
EXECUTIVE
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Ashley Simonson
President & CEO
ELEVATE ELEVATE
APRIL
Events are curated with the most accurate information available at the time of print. Please check the event website for full details or changes.
APRIL 3
CELTIC ANGELS IRELAND The Monument themonument.live
APRIL4-5
DAVID GBORIE West River Comedy Club tickettailor.com
APRIL 5
THE BOOK CLUB PLAY Catalyst Theater Company catalyst.art
APRIL 5
BEETHOVEN’S EM PEROR PIANO CONCERTO Performing Arts Center app.arts-people.com
APRIL 5-6
THE GREAT BENJAMINS CIRCUS Uptown Mall benjaminscircus.com
APRIL 5-6
KIDS FAIR The Monument youthandfamilyservices.org
APRIL 9
JEFF DUNHAM “ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE” The Monument themonument.live
APRIL 9-11
RAPID CITY RUSH VS. UTAH GRIZZLIES The Monument themonument.live
APRIL 15
STEAM CAFE
Hay Camp Brewing Company facebook.com
APRIL 15
THE SLEEPING BEAUTYTHE STATE BALLET THEATRE OF UKRAINE
The Monument themonument.live
APRIL 17
TOAST
The Park Rapid City facebook.com
APRIL20
EASTER BRUNCH AT THE BOX
The Box thebox.live
APRIL 25
THE ROCK ORCHESTRA BY CANDLELIGHT
The Monument themonument.live
APRIL 26
KOUNTRY JUNKIN The Monument facebook.com
APRIL 26
NEAL MCCOY
Loud American loudamericansturgis.com
APRIL 27
KING OF WINGS
The Box thebox.live/events
Rapid City Business Journal is a weekly show and a business news website produced by Elevate Rapid City and The HomeSlice Group. We strive to produce daily and weekly business news supporting Rapid City, The Black Hills, and South Dakota.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Mark Houston
PUBLIC SERVICE DIRECTOR
Leslie Cline
Chris Jaques PRODUCER
Amber Clement PRODUCTION
Oakley Tye PROMOTIONS
Mitchell Stafford WEBSITE DESIGN
Brenna Sherry DATA MANAGEMENT
Hannah Masters OPERATIONS
Toni Kinney
For children and families
Children’s Home Society of South Dakota is healing trauma, raising hope and growing resilience for the children, families and communities we serve. We offer everything from residential treatment and schools to outpatient mental health services, forensic interviewing and more. And now we’re expanding services at our new location on Mount Rushmore Road in Rapid City.
BLACK HILLS UNDER40 ELEVATING
HILLS REGION UNDER40
PROFESSIONALS
Photo by Visit Rapid City.
Optometrist
Sarah Houdek // 30
DRS. TUCKER-KUDRNA-HOLEC-YOUNG EYECARE CENTER
Sarah believes that optometry is shifting from a reactive approach to a more preventative one. With advancements in medications, contact lenses, and diagnostic testing, the field is reaching a point where diseases can be detected at earlier stages. She sees herself contributing to this progress by committing to continued education on new technology and protocols, with the goal of preserving her patients’ eye health and vision.
Her favorite example of preventative care in optometry is myopia control—slowing nearsightedness in children. By using various methods to slow myopia progression, Sarah helps keep children’s eyes healthier, reducing the risk of ocular disease and vision loss.
Raised in Rapid City
Director of Sales
Tyson Steiger // 39
VISIT RAPID CITY
Tyson has a deep appreciation for leadership and the aptitude and fortitude required to be successful in it. Having risen through the ranks in the military and now advancing within Visit Rapid City, he has been exposed to a variety of leadership styles. The qualities he values in an effective leader include setting an example, coaching employees, inspiring enthusiasm, fostering a “we” approach to decision-making, and empowering staff to succeed in their roles.
He believes in staying a lifelong learner, embracing the power of positivity, and recognizing the importance of relationships. Tyson emphasizes the value of being prompt in delivery and showing up every day as the best version of oneself.
Celebrating 10 years at Visit Rapid City
Community Manager
Joshua Miranda// 34
RAPID CITY ARTS COUNCIL
Joshua believes the future of arts and community engagement lies in inclusivity, innovation, and human connection. He sees art as more than just expression—it creates spaces where people feel seen, valued, and part of something greater. Through his work with the Rapid City Arts Council, he has witnessed how arts programs bridge divides, spark conversations, and unite people in powerful ways.
Beyond the arts, Joshua’s work with Sun Pine Moon Brewing reflects this vision—creating healing experiences through herbal wellness and nonalcoholic options that foster connection. He envisions a future where wellness and creativity intertwine, providing communities with more ways to engage meaningfully.
Tandoor Bocado & BB’s Natural
KatieSandvig// 37
CORE PELVIC HEALTH Owner & Physical Therapist
In January 2025, Katie opened Core Pelvic Health, a business she believes fills a vital gap in the community’s healthcare offerings. She specializes in physical therapy for patients dealing with pelvic floor dysfunction, as well as providing preventative care and wellness services.
Her goal is to create a space where both women and men can access care for issues that are often private and uncomfortable to address. At Core Pelvic Health, Katie strives to offer a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment, empowering her patients to lead happier, healthier, and more active lives.
Take a moment to reflect on what your work-life balance could look like in 1, 5, and 10 years.
GM & PARTNER
ASHLEY MEGGS
FOUR SEASONS MOTORSPORT & MARINE
Ashley has been involved in powersports since childhood, quickly developing a love for it. After finishing a career competing professionally in snowmobile racing, she began working in the powersports and marine industry at Four Seasons Motorsports and Marine.
For 15 years, she held numerous positions within the dealership before earning the managing partner role four years ago. She is passionate about trailblazing a path for more women to be involved in the powersports industry, and her love for powersports and boating continues to drive her as she shares it with the Black Hills community.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CHADWICK RATIGAN
ONEHEART
Chadwick recognizes that the human services field is expected to experience increased demand due to economic concerns, an aging population, and mental health issues. The future of this sector will require a significant number of employees and adaptations driven by technological advancements to address growing needs.
He envisions himself playing a pivotal role in developing innovative hiring strategies, advocating for the field, and fostering a transformative environment for all. He believes it is crucial to attract individuals who are committed to contributing to the process rather than focusing on the outcome.
Born & raised in Rapid City
Dakotah Steak House
OWNER
TRISTA VLCEK
JUMP N SLIDE ADVENTURE PARK
Trista, a 32-year-old mother of two, including a child with cystic fibrosis, is passionate about creating businesses that serve the community. With her background in inflatable rentals, she founded Jump N Slide Adventure Park, developing every aspect to foster fun and lasting memories. As a USAF veteran, Trista lives by the motto “service before self,” ensuring a positive, enriching environment for both guests and employees. Her child’s medical needs inspired a meticulous cleaning regimen to keep all the little explorers safe and healthy.
My advice would be to trust yourself and stay true to your vision. Not every idea or business practice will resonate with everyone, but it’s important to have confidence in what you believe in.
ALY QUINN
EVENTS COORDINATOR/SUPERVISOR & ENTREPRENEUR
RAPID CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY & DAKOTA POINT BREWING
Aly is committed to strengthening her community through education, access, and engagement. At the library, she creates programs that promote information literacy and lifelong learning. She leads with empathy, guiding her team while developing engaging events. As a business owner, she fosters connections through events at the brewery. Through her volunteer work with Early Learner Rapid City and Black Hills Bike Hub, she advocates for childhood resources, develops strategic initiatives, and creates opportunities for people to connect through cycling. She is a current member of the Elevate Leadership Institute.
Celebrating 5 years at RC Library
33
AARON FLAHAUT
SECTION CHIEF OF SPECIAL SECURITY OPERATIONS
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE
Aaron believes a strong U.S. military ensures greater security for our nation, allies, and the world. He was recently selected as a future Air Force officer and pilot, and he will play a direct role in advancing the nation’s strategic capabilities. Aaron is committed to strengthening the force through innovation in technology, human performance, and leadership development.
He loves being part of something bigger than himself. Because of his role, Aaron plays a part in ensuring the safety of Air Force base residents, and, to a larger extent, the people of the nation.
Master’s Degree from Harvard 29
ANJELICA SASSE
SENIOR COMPENSATION ANALYST
BLACK HILLS ENERGY
For the utility industry, Anjelica sees the key challenge as remaining agile—especially when it comes to future growth and the needs of the growing communities being served. In her position as a Senior Compensation Analyst, she focuses on tackling those growing pains, forecasting market movements more effectively to remain competitive within the industry and beyond, and partnering effectively with the various audiences that impact how the job is done. She is also dedicated to continuing education for employees and ensuring effective communication throughout the process.
Plays in a band and songwriter
34
DR. GERRIT SCHEEPERS
DIRECTOR OF CHOIRS
SOUTH DAKOTA MINES
Gerrit believes that music has the power to transcend boundaries, connecting people from all walks of life. As a choir director, he sees this magic unfold every day, watching students blossom not just as musicians but as confident, expressive individuals. One person who deeply influenced his journey was composer Alice Parker. In 2014, Gerrit met her, and by 2015, he spent an unforgettable week in her home, absorbing decades of wisdom. Her teachings on composition forever transformed the way he approaches music, shaping him both as a director and a performer. He had the chance to work with her several times since then.
Sabatino’s Italian Ristorante
37
UNDER40
Mental Health Therapist
ChelseyGroseclose
THE COUCH CONNECTION MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS & SD MINES
Chelsey’s late mentor, Jim Hess, is the biggest inspiration in her professional and personal journey. If she could embody even half of his kindness, love, and generosity, she would consider that a true success. Jim’s influence has been a guiding force in her life, pushing her to give back to her community and stay deeply committed to the helping profession.
He is the reason Chelsey embarked on the journey to help others and give back to the community. His example of selflessness and dedication continues to inspire her every day, motivating her to serve others with the same compassion and commitment that he showed her.
Bokujo Ramen
Dr.LauraRawlings
ANIMAL CLINIC LTD Partner/Veterinarian
As a business owner in an agricultural community, Laura aims to educate ranchers on sustainable and productive animal health practices.
She loves that she is more than just a veterinarian to her clients—she is part of their family. Laura is invited to sit at their tables and talk about everything from ranching to sports to the latest additions to the family. She is included in their celebrations and commiserations. Her clients reach out to her for advice or to be a sounding board about all parts of their life. Being a rural veterinarian is so much more than just animal health care.
Corrine Perkins
PLENTY OF HIRES &
BLACK HILLS WELCOME BOX Founder/CEO
Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and Corrine has dedicated her career to helping them grow and improve. She is currently creating a hiring platform to take the stress out of recruitment for businesses in construction; building an online and in-person networking group called Business Networking in the Black Hills, which connects entrepreneurs; and has supported local initiatives like the Black Hills Toy Drive and the Piedmont Valley Chamber. Her work is all about empowering businesses and individuals so the community can continue to thrive.
Harriet & Oak
Katy Odenbach
Owner 31
LUXE HAIRCARE & SKINCARE
Katy thrives on the ability to create—whether it’s transforming a client’s look, building a brand, or developing new ideas to enhance the client experience. She embraces the creative freedom her profession offers and the constant evolution that comes with it.
Beyond the artistry, Katy values the impact Luxe has on both clients and stylists. Seeing people leave feeling confident and empowered is incredibly rewarding. She also finds fulfillment in mentoring and fostering a space where stylists can grow, challenge themselves, and refine their craft while having a strong support system.
Ma Caulli
Traie Roberson-Miles
Owner & Coach
RUSHMORE CROSSFIT
38
Traie is most inspired by the incredible transformations witnessed in members every day. Helping people add longevity, vitality, and confidence to their lives through fitness and nutrition is the driving force behind this work. Seeing someone lift a weight they never thought possible, move without pain, or simply feel better in their daily life reinforces the purpose behind it all. It’s not just about workouts— it’s about empowering people to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Knowing that Rushmore CrossFit plays a role in their journey keeps Traie motivated to continue growing, learning, and making a difference in the community.
Celebrating 10 years of Rushmore CrossFit
Michaela Horn
Executive Director 31
BELLE FOURCHE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Michaela strives to be as active in the community as possible, attending events, fundraisers, and organization meetings to stay informed and represent the Chamber. In addition to her role with the Chamber, she has served as the head coach of the Belle Fourche High School cheerleaders for nearly seven years. She also served as president of the South Dakota High School Cheer Association and volunteers with Spirit of Cheer and Dance, an organization supporting cheerleaders and dancers from the peewee level to college across the Black Hills. Her passion lies in mentorship, leadership, and fostering community connections.
Thrifting
Spencer
Gossel
Home Loan Specialist
CMG HOME LOANS
35
Spencer approaches everything with what she calls “intentional impact,” constantly striving to do things “with purpose—on purpose.” As a mortgage lender, she not only helps clients invest in homes but also in the community she is deeply committed to. Spencer dedicates much of her free time to volunteering and donating to various organizations. Her goal is not just to be involved but to make an intentional, lasting difference in the lives of others and the place they all call home.
Become an expert—always be a student of your craft. This industry is constantly evolving, and success comes from continuous learning. Stay informed, understand the market, and confidently guide clients through one of their biggest financial decisions.
Real Estate Agent
HollyGlatt // 39
UPWARD PROPERTIES
Holly is honored to serve on the board of directors for Esthers Rising, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing restorative care for adolescent girls at risk for or recovering from sexual exploitation and trafficking. With no dedicated beds in South Dakota for these girls, the organization is actively fundraising to build a restorative care home in the Black Hills. Last year, Holly helped organize the annual gala and served as the head organizer for the Rapid City Festival of Trees, which raised over $16,000 in its first year.
Holly is also involved with Fountain Springs Church, mentoring through Big Brothers Big Sisters, and annually helping families in need, including organizing a “Community Giving Tree” with Byrch Boutique that provided gifts for 50 families last year.
Raised in Spearfish
Construction & Security
Manager
// 32
Evan Walterman
BLACK HILLS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Evan believes the Black Hills and Rapid City are unique and special, offering a small community feel where individuals can make a meaningful impact through their work or volunteer efforts. He appreciates how easy it is to find incredible people contributing to the area’s betterment. Evan also loves the access to outdoor recreation, noting that he can ride his mountain bike from his office to two amazing trail systems in town, with dozens of miles of trails just a short drive away. With over a million acres of public lands in the Black Hills National Forest, Evan feels it’s a beautiful place to live an active life and raise a family.
Celebrating 10 years in construction industry
Devin Constant // 29
DAKOTA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY Assistant Professor/Clinical Coordinator
Undoubtedly, her students are her fire to continue learning, improve her teaching methods, and grow their program. She has the privilege of working with them from the moment they learn to take a blood pressure, all the way up until they accept their first nursing position. Many of her students are considered “non-traditional” students, which means they are older than a typical college student, have children, decided to make a career change, or a combination of these criteria. Students that fall into this category have to work incredibly hard to be successful; they tend to have more responsibilities than “traditional” students do, and many can’t afford to stop working while going to nursing school. If she has students working this hard to meet their goals, then they can count on her to be there every step of the way with them.
Camping at the lake
Manager, Client Success
Nate Jaime//
38
SECOND NATURE
Nate works in client success, a relatively new but increasingly impactful discipline that helps businesses maximize revenue potential from existing clients. As client success has evolved, it’s become clear that intentional, data-driven conversations play a crucial role in helping clients derive maximum value from the products or services offered. It’s exciting to see companies investing more in building strong client success teams as they recognize that retaining and expanding current clients is far more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. Leading in client success at this stage of the discipline’s growth is personally thrilling for Nate. His experience in coaching and facilitating strategic conversations, combined with his passion for delivering exceptional client experiences, motivates him and fuels his excitement for the future.
Tally’s Silver Spoon
ANNELISE EWING GOODMAN, ED.D
MANAGER, CUSTOMER SUCCESS & INSTRUCTOR
INSTRUCTURE & BLACK HILLS STATE UNIVERSITY
Annelise sees education rapidly evolving to integrate technology with traditional teaching methods, creating a more dynamic and accessible learning experience. The fusion of these approaches is opening doors to new possibilities, allowing for greater access to quality education and making learning more personalized and efficient. With the rise of digital tools and platforms, education is becoming more inclusive, reaching students in ways that were previously unimaginable, and ensuring that learning is accessible to a wider and more diverse audience.
Gardening and houseplant care
33
AUDREY NORDINE
ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE BLACK HILLS
Audrey envisions a nonprofit sector that is data-driven and deeply rooted in community voice, moving beyond traditional service delivery models and embracing a collaborative, human-centered approach. She sees herself contributing by fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation within her organization, empowering her team to experiment with new approaches and leverage technology to enhance their impact. Audrey is committed to building strong partnerships, amplifying the voices of those they serve, and advocating for the next generation.
Sumo for mommy/daughter date
33
SKYLAR MCKEITH
LAWYER
SELF-EMPLOYED
What Skylar loves most about the work she does is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. As a business immigration lawyer, Skylar helps individuals and businesses navigate complex legal processes, ensuring they can achieve their goals and thrive in new opportunities. She finds it incredibly rewarding to guide clients—whether they are entrepreneurs, professionals, or high-profile individuals—through what can often be a daunting and complicated process. The ability to empower others, break down barriers, and contribute to their success is what drives her passion for this work every day.
Served at Ellsworth Air Force Base
30
ERIC NELSON
MANAGER SUBSTATION MAINTENANCE
BLACK HILLS ENERGY
Eric’s inspiration comes from those who have helped him succeed and those he can assist. When he entered the workforce, he was fortunate enough to have mentors all around him who helped him develop and gave him opportunities to challenge himself. While he’ll always be developing personally, Eric is finding even greater inspiration from helping others achieve their goals. Being able to challenge others and push them to achieve greater things has taken his personal drive to the next level.
Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and ask why. One of the most limiting things we can hear is, “because that’s the way we’ve always done it.” Ask the hard questions and be prepared to work.
31
REALTOR
MARKIE ZACHARIAS
RE/MAX ADVANTAGE
Markie was drawn to the beauty of the area and the community as a whole. She moved here 15 years ago because she loved that it had a small-town feel but with ‘big city’ attributes. They could go hiking and fishing but then run to Target and catch a movie. She grew up in a small town of 600, so those amenities were at least an hour or two away.
Markie feels so lucky to be able to give her family the opportunity to live in such a beautiful place. While the area has sure grown in that time, she still sees the small-town charm it has to offer. The kindness of its residents and the beauty of the entire Black Hills continue to make it a special place for all who visit.
Family time, hiking, or running
ASSOC SOFTWARE ENGINEER
CHAMI SENARATH & LUNA
PROPERTY MELD
Chami loves the work he does for many reasons. He thrives on solving challenging problems because his team pushes him to learn new technologies and expand his skills. Every day presents an opportunity to grow, and that constant evolution keeps him engaged.
Beyond the technical side, Chami’s team plays a huge role in why he enjoys his work. Property Meld has built a supportive and collaborative culture where learning and vulnerability are encouraged, and that environment makes all the difference.
Watching customers use features he has built and knowing that his work has improved their experience is a powerful and fulfilling feeling.
Piano, violin, musical composition, learning new languages
PARTNER
SARAH J DAVIS 34
KETEL THORSTENSON LLP
Sarah understands the importance of teamwork and believes that every individual plays a crucial role in a company’s success and growth. Her co-workers mean the world to her, and they are the driving force behind the business’s success.
Without her team, the company would not thrive. She also believes that how we treat others goes a long way. Building relationships and helping everyone become their best is something Sarah cares deeply about. She is honored to be nominated, as it is a testament to the support and collaboration of her colleagues who have helped her get to where she is today.
OWNER/FOUNDER
WESLEY ERICKSON 34
ADVENTURE DRIVEN MEDIA CO
Wes has always dreamed of being his own boss but struggled to find purpose or a passion that would align with that goal. He was finally able to connect the dots between something he was very good at (marketing and sales) and an industry he was passionate about (the outdoors), turning it into a career. Wes is motivated to succeed solely for his family—providing for them so his wife can stay home and raise their children.
He believes success is built on the ability to foster relationships. One must place just as much importance on understanding a potential client’s needs, pain points, and desires as on their own success.
Kathmandu Bistro
Tally’s Silver Spoon
Rachelle White
Executive Vice President
BLACK HILLS HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
Rachelle envisions the future of the home building industry in the Black Hills with Black Hills Home Builders becoming a powerhouse in the community—a trusted resource where local organizations and residents turn for advice and support on residential home building. She sees the association as a hub of knowledge and collaboration, fostering connections that empower both builders and homeowners.
Ultimately, she believes that through collaboration, advocacy, and a commitment to excellence, the future of home building in the Black Hills can thrive, benefiting both builders and the families they serve.
PHO Vietnam
Megan Batteen
President
MIDWEST MARKETING
Megan’s title may be President, but her role is far from singular. Day to day, she handles everything from managing staff and reconciling accounting statements to working with clients of all sizes across various sectors. While her primary focus is marketing strategy, she goes beyond that—helping clients navigate business challenges, manage marketing budgets, develop campaign concepts, oversee creative services, and implement tailored marketing solutions. More often than not, she also becomes a trusted advisor and friend. In 2023, Megan was awarded the AAF Black Hills Unsung Hero of Marketing Award.
Celebrating 15 years at Midwest Marketing
Dr. Whitnee Coy
Professor
OGLALA LAKOTA COLLEGE
What keeps Whitnee in Rapid City and the Black Hills is deeply personal. After living here, getting married, and then going through a divorce, she moved back to Kentucky for her own healing. However, even as she found new places to call home, she never fully let go of the Black Hills. Whitnee continued traveling back and forth, and it was during those work trips that she met her wonderful husband. It was then that she realized she needed to return—not just for work, but to continue her life there with him and to grow their family. The Black Hills provided her with space and healing, and she feels incredibly fortunate to have come back to this place, which is not only beautiful but has become a part of her journey toward love and personal growth.
Binging crime docs and stick poke tattoos
Kevin Kirschenmann
Lab Manager 39
BLACK HILLS SURGICAL HOSPITAL
Kevin’s vision is to continue advancing healthcare options and availability for community members so they can receive quality healthcare right here in the Black Hills. He believes the best way he can contribute to the sustainability of healthcare in the region is by promoting and educating people about the medical laboratory field and its vital role in a patient’s healthcare experience. Approximately 70% of medical decisions are made using diagnostic lab results, yet most people have no idea that medical laboratories exist. This lack of exposure makes it difficult to recruit and retain qualified lab personnel to perform this essential testing.
First job was at the Colonial House
/ Project Management
David Wolf // 39
WESTERN STATES FIRE PROTECTION Pre-Construction
David’s vision for the future includes high schools once again promoting trades in the classroom. He recognizes that not all young adults seek a college education after high school and hopes to see counselors and parents supporting students in their decision to pursue a trade. As a community, he believes it is essential to discard the negative stigma around not attending college and instead celebrate students who choose careers that align with their skills and aspirations. David emphasizes the need for individuals who can build, create, and take pride in working with their hands. He hopes to help establish a support system that provides guidance and teaches students about the many opportunities that await them.
Camping, sports and lake days
KLEIN VISIONEERING GROUP Founder/CEO
KaylaKlein// 36
Kayla loves her work as an advocate and consultant because it allows her to support incredible clients who are actively working to create meaningful change in the world. She takes pride in helping passionate educators, non-profits, and change-makers keep their visions alive and make a real impact on the communities they serve. Kayla thrives on navigating challenges and witnessing her clients succeed in achieving their goals. She finds daily inspiration in the people she works with and considers it both an honor and a privilege to be part of their journey.
Perseverance and a positive attitude are key. You will face failures and feel the sting of defeat, but what matters is how you rise after the fall. There is so much to learn from “failing”—this is where brilliance and innovation happen!
Kianna Binger// 31
LEMON FRESH CLEANERS Founder/CEO
Kia believes that natural cleaning is going to rule the world—and she wants to lead the charge. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the products used in their homes, and the demand for non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning is only growing. She envisions a future where natural cleaning isn’t a niche service but the industry standard.
She also believes in raising industry standards, ensuring transparency in cleaning practices, and empowering other entrepreneurs—particularly women—to enter and succeed in this space. In fact, every location of her company is female-owned and operated.
Ron’s Cafe
BryanMitchell// 39
WESTERN DAKOTA TECH Program Director
Bryan is driven to empower individuals and build a sustainable future. As Western Dakota Tech’s Electrical Program Director, he trains future electricians and mentors award-winning teams. At Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Dakotas, Bryan leads professional development, advancing the electrical industry.
At Black Hills Solar, he brings clean energy to homes. As Evergreen Aquafarm’s CTO, Bryan pioneers sustainable food production through innovative aquaponics. These roles reflect his leadership in education, workforce development, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture—all driven by a desire for lasting impact.
Take every opportunity you get to learn and grow as a person.
PARTNER
AUSTIN EICHACKER
KETEL THORSTENSON, LLP
Austin loves the opportunity to share his accounting and financial knowledge with small and medium-sized business owners who are passionate about their work. He is also enthusiastic about training and developing the next generation of CPAs within the firm.
With accountants becoming increasingly scarce, businesses face challenges in hiring professionals who can provide the high level of service needed for success. However, it is the day-to-day interactions and problem-solving with clients that truly motivate him each morning.
SR MARKETING STRATEGIST
ALLIE GEIERBARLOW 29
MIDWEST MARKETING
Allie believes advertising should be meaningful, impactful, and beautiful. She views it as an art to craft messaging and creative that truly resonates with people. As the industry evolves, she emphasizes the importance of pushing the boundaries of innovation and storytelling.
Through her leadership in AAF Black Hills, Allie strives to elevate the local advertising community by bringing in outside talent, fostering learning opportunities, and keeping the industry at the forefront of emerging trends. She is passionate about helping businesses tell their stories in ways that connect and inspire, seeing her role as a bridge—connecting talent, ideas, and creativity.
Murphy’s Pub Celebrating 10 years at KTLLP
Spend $2,000 On Everyday
& Earn $200 with Your New Cash
*To qualify and receive credit card bonus offer, you must make qualifying purchases (purchases less returns, credits, and adjustments) totaling $2,000 or more during the first 90 days from loan opening. Purchases do not include cash advances, balance transfers, unauthorized or fraudulent charges, account fees, and interest charges. Qualifying purchases must post to your loan account within 90 days from opening. Terms and conditions subject to change without notice. Offer subject to credit approval. Additional restrictions apply. Please contact us at 605.718.1818 for details.
» bhfcu.com/cashback
POSITIONS AVAILABLE: - No Experience Necessary - On-the-Job Training - Competitive Wages - Growth Opportunities
For more information, scan this QR code, visit monument.health/careers or call 605-755-JOBS.
CLINICAL ASSISTANT
STARTING WAGE $16.36-$18.81/HR
MEDICAL ASSISTANT*
STARTING WAGE $19.66-$22.60/HR
LAB ASSISTANT
STARTING WAGE $16.96-$22.19/HR
NURSE AIDE
STARTING WAGE $18.02-$23.41/HR
PATIENT ACCESS SPECIALIST
STARTING WAGE $16.95-$19.48/HR
PHARMACY TECHNICIAN
STARTING WAGE $16.44-$25.80/HR
* National certification required, experience preferred. Up to $5000 sign on bonus for qualified candidates.
