Scott Holdman

AGE: 37 DIRECTOR, IMPACT FOUNDATION’S IMPACT INSTITUTE FARGO, N.D.

Josh Hochgraber

AGE: 37

EXECUTIVE OFFICER, FAMILY HEALTHCARE FARGO, N.D.

As Impact Institute director, Scott Holdman has helped train and coach hundreds of nonprofit “do-gooders” to raise money and operate more effectively.

He has worked with more than 400 nonprofits. He has served as a lead strategist for Giving Hearts Day, the region’s largest giving day that has raised $41 million to do good.

In 2000, he was appointed to the North Dakota Youth Development Council and later became the council’s chair.

Holdman holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and entrepreneurship from the University of North Dakota. While at UND, he was named executive chair of the Nonprofit Student Association.

He is certified in fundraising management from Indiana University and is a certified nonprofit professional from the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance.

“Scott’s life’s work is inspiring people and then enabling them to reach inside themselves to unlock their natural talents, all in service of others. He is a remarkable human being.”

AGE: 38 TECHNOLOGY ADVISOR, MARCO DETROIT LAKES, MINN.

Josh Hochgraber attributes his leadership opportunities to working for a fast-growing company, living in an aspirational community and having supportive family and friends.

He shares his customer-centric best practices with his Marco colleagues by being a presenter for the company’s sales-training program and through one-on-one peer mentoring.

In addition to being a consistent sales quota achiever, Hochgraber has served as president of the Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce. He’s also president of the Detroit Lakes Breakfast Rotary and board chairman of the Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center. Additionally, Hochgraber helped with three landmark Detroit Lakes nonprofit capital campaigns.

“Josh’s success as a sales professional makes him stand out among his peers. But it is a combination of his civic involvement, peer development and positive manner that shows why he deserves to be named one of the region’s top business professionals.”

Jonathan Holth

AGE: 39 CO-OWNER, THE TOASTED FROG RESTAURANTS GRAND FORKS, BISMARCK AND FARGO, N.D.

Besides being a business owner and entrepreneur, Jonathan Holth has been an advocate for shaping downtowns. He co-founded the Grand Forks Downtown Development Association, then served as board president for the first two years.

He recently served as interim president of the Downtown Community Partnership in Fargo.

Holth served as the co-chair of the Mayor’s Downtown Vibrancy Initiative in Grand Forks. He chaired the Valley Prosperity Partnership’s Entrepreneurship Committee and serves on the Evolve Grand Forks, Empire Arts Center and Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corp. boards.

He lives in Grand Forks with his wife, Emily, and their daughters, Sophia, Evelyn, and Violet.

“To know how much of an impact Jon has made, look no further than the fact that he was hired as interim head of the Fargo Downtown Community Partnership. The community trusted him so much, they brought a known Grand Forks advocate in to help them build their downtown.”

In March 2014, Paul Hoplin started Twin Tandem Studios, a marketing service that produces online video content and branding strategies for businesses and organizations. He later created Redwood Camera, a biographical video service that offers a professional setting for storytelling. A Grand Forks native, Hoplin studied at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and attended one hockey game – a University of North Dakota victory – before graduating with a management degree.

Hoplin also helps with content creation for UND’s athletic department. Along with fellow downtown and Red River enthusiast Blue Weber, he developed a light-hearted online show called NewsGame, which reports on regional activities and events.

“This man owns a content creation company and is doing some of the best digital work in the city. … Paul came back to Grand Forks because of the opportunity here, and this amazing community provides him the opportunity to make a difference.”

Jennifer Jackson

AGE: 34 ARCHITECT, JLG ARCHITECTS BISMARCK, N.D.

AGE: 28

FOUNDER, TWIN TANDEM STUDIOS GRAND FORKS, N.D.

Jennifer Jackson has led the design teams for several significant projects now under construction in central North Dakota, including First Western Bank & Trust’s downtown Bismarck bank and Basin Electric Power Co-op’s Menoken transmission system maintenance facility.

The Welcome House, a shelter serving homeless families, also has benefitted from Jackson’s time during her service as a grant writer, board member and officer.

Jackson is a Bismarck-Mandan Chamber Leadership Program graduate and has served as a Leadership Alumni Association president.

She grew up on a farm and ranch, attended a one-room country school and eventually graduated from Bowman (N.D.) High School and North Dakota State University.

Jackson and her husband, Patrick, live in Bismarck along with their children: Indie, Ruby and Clark.

“I can think of no one more worthy, or more likely to make impact after impact to Western North Dakota, than Jenn.”

At Studio North, a branding boutique that she founded in 2012, Sommer Jacob has paired her business knowledge and experience with 20 years in design and marketing to help other business owners brand their businesses with authenticity and integrity.

She tries to inspire other women entrepreneurs by helping them build a brand that they love and are excited to promote, resulting in higher profits.

At Northland Concrete & Excavation, Jacob tries to strategize and cultivate company culture in ways that improve her team’s processes and efficiency while also providing a family-style atmosphere.

Northland strives to create an environment for personal and professional empowerment and second chances. Her “Gold Collar Workers” wear gold uniforms and are encouraged to live a golden life of their fullest potential.

“Sommer Jacob is a passionate entrepreneur, mother, daughter, wife, mentor, mentee and life-long learner who enjoys cultivating success in others.”

AGE: 39

CO-FOUNDER, CO-OWNER AND CEO, NORTHLAND CONCRETE & EXCAVATION OWNER, STUDIO NORTH BISMARCK, N.D.

Kristin Jaeger

AGE:

36

MARKETING DIRECTOR, CORNERSTONE BANK PARSHALL, N.D.

In her role as marketing director, Kristin Jaeger develops Cornerstone Bank’s marketing strategy and oversees all marketing efforts, including the community-based marketing needs for Cornerstone’s 14 locations in North and South Dakota.

Jaeger earned her bachelor’s degree from South Dakota State University and her MBA from the University of Mary in Bismarck. She’s a founding member and current vice chair of the Parshall (N.D.) Area Community Foundation, president of the Parshall Promoters, member of the Mountrail County Job Development Authority Board and a volunteer for her church.

She received Cornerstone Bank’s Outstanding Newcomer award for 2016.

“Not only does Kristin do a highly effective job as our marketing director, but also she’s the utmost professional, reaching out to her customers for input, building brand advocates across our entire organization and being very involved in the community.”

Alyssa Kaste

AGE: 26

HARVEST PROJECT MANAGER, EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS

GRAND FORKS, N.D.

After starting with Express Employment Professionals as an intern, Alyssa Kaste progressed into multiple roles with more responsibility before being promoted to Harvest Project Manager in early 2017.

Kaste is responsible for the staffing of 42 beet piling sites, six factory yards and two quality labs for American Crystal Sugar Co. and Sidney Sugars Inc. She manages the hiring of more than 2,000 seasonal workers, including about 800 workers known as Workampers who come from all over the United States and live in their RVs.

Kaste spearheaded the creation of an online application that lets Express Employment record and track Workampers. She also maintains working relationships with 30 area campgrounds that accommodate the Workamper population when they’re here for the harvest.

“Remember, she’s doing all this in an era of 2 percent to 3 percent unemployment in our region. … She’s perhaps the most creative person in our organization, and in an age of challenging work ethics and reliability, she is a shining star.”

Missy Keney

AGE: 36

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE, ALERUS GRAND FORKS, N.D.

Missy Keney started her career with Alerus in 2005. During the past decade, she oversaw all corporate communications during a time of widespread expansion for the company, including entry into new markets in Minnesota and Arizona.

Today, Keney is a member of Alerus’ leadership team, overseeing the company’s advertising, communication and experience initiatives.

Keney graduated from North Dakota State University and the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing and Management. She’s a certified financial marketing professional.

She’s the immediate past president of the American Advertising Federation of North Dakota and serves as ex-officio on the board of directors. She previously served in various capacities with the United Way of Cass-Clay and volunteered with Junior Achievement.

“Missy will no doubt continue to be a stand-out at the executive leadership level and will serve as a mentor and example of success, both within Alerus and for communications professionals throughout the region for many years.”

Naomi Keney

AGE: 34

VICE PRESIDENT/DIRECTOR

Of Credit

RISK, FIRST INTERNATIONAL BANK & TRUST FARGO, N.D.

As a full-time student at North Dakota State University, Naomi Keney held three jobs, including a full-time position in banking.

She continued her banking career after graduation and now has 14 years’ banking experience.

Today, Keney oversees First International’s Credit Review and Appraisal departments. During the past two years, she also has acted as project manager for the implementation of new software for the entire lending function at the bank.

Keney will be graduating from the bank’s two-year Management Academy in January.

She’s involved in United Way, Great Plains Food Bank, Salvation Army and her church. She also helps coach youth soccer and T-ball.

“Naomi is a zealous advocate for her team members and is willing to challenge the status quo. … As a leader in various bank committees, she is called upon for her expertise and is highly regarded by her peers for her professionalism and knowledge base.”

Amanda Kosior

AGE: 37 MARKETING

DIRECTOR, JLG ARCHITECTS GRAND FORKS, N.D.

Raised in her family’s clothing store, Silverman’s, Amanda Kosior spent her formative years studying what makes people look and feel great before venturing to Boston University to pursue a communications, public relations and English degree.

Kosior worked for places such as Paramount Pictures and Viacom Productions before coming to JLG Architects as marketing director.

Today, she uses some of her 18-odd years of experience to mentor the next generation of marketers while also giving her time to a number of organizations, including Evolve Grand Forks and the North Dakota Ballet Company.

“Kosior has been a driving force in the rapid expansion of JLG – the largest architecture firm in North Dakota and No. 19 in the country –and has been on the cutting edge of marketing in an industry in which she was the first-ever marketing director at a North Dakota firm.”

Jennie Krause

AGE: 34

TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER, KLJ BISMARCK, N.D.

Jennie Krause joined KLJ in 2006, and today, she serves as an engineer who focuses on transportation projects. She is committed to not only serving communities through her role as an engineer, but also to advancing today’s youth by being involved in STEM-related programs that encourage children to learn more about engineering.

Krause graduated with a civil engineering degree from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and earned a professional engineering license in North Dakota and Wyoming. She a wife and mother to three girls, serves as the president of the North Dakota Association of County Engineers and is a member of American Council of Engineering Companies, sitting on two liaison committees.

“In a male-dominated industry, Jennie Krause is a transportation engineer who not only serves as a project manager but also volunteers her time to encourage today’s youth and young girls to learn more about the industry.”

Ulteig is passionate about understanding client needs. With our collaborative solution-focused approach, clients depend on us to deliver comprehensive engineering and technical services that strengthen infrastructure vital to everyday life. Ulteig’s footprint spans the nation and provides its expertise in multiple Lifeline Sectors®, including power, renewables, transportation, water and oil & gas.

To find out more, visit us at Ulteig.com.

Don Larson

AGE: 38

PUBLIC AFFAIRS SENIOR SPECIALIST AND PARTNER, ODNEY BISMARCK, N.D.

Before joining Odney in 2016, Don Larson served six years as chief of staff to U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D. He also ran three successful campaigns for Hoeven, including in 2016, when Hoeven received the largest margin of victory for a U.S. Senate candidate in North Dakota history.

Larson previously worked in the North Dakota Governor’s Office and as legislative director for the North Dakota Republican Party.

Originally from Surrey, N.D., Larson lives in Bismarck with his wife and two daughters. He’s a graduate of North Dakota State University and is active in his community, currently serving on the board of directors for the Bismarck Ronald McDonald House.

“At only 38, Don has positively benefited North Dakota on statewide, federal and international levels. … Though his roles have been pressure-filled and very public, he remains an easy-going, approachable and personable colleague.”

Brett Lefor received his bachelor’s degree from Dickinson State University in 2012. Through Blackridge Capital, he serves as chief operating officer for three different businesses including DCI Credit Services, a collection service with offices in Dickinson, Bismarck and Fargo; Blackridge Enterprises, which owns residential and commercial real estate in several communities throughout North Dakota; and Blue 42 Sports Grille and Bar in Dickinson.

Along with other family members, he bought a building that was damaged in a fire and worked on a year-long project to restore it and open a sports grille in downtown Dickinson.

“Brett his consistently shown a passion for growing any business he is associated with. DCI, Blackridge Capital and Blackridge Enterprises have all grown under his leadership. … He played a critical role in the establishment of Blue 42 Sports Grille and Bar, in which a previously burned building was gutted and remodeled, and is now a thriving business.”

Brett Lefor

AGE: 28

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, BLACKRIDGE CAPITAL DICKINSON, N.D.

Karl Liepitz

AGE: 39

ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL, MDU RESOURCES GROUP

BISMARCK, N.D.

As assistant general counsel, Liepitz provides day-to-day legal services and advice to MDU Resources’ utility companies and the construction materials business.

Liepitz also is a planning and zoning commissioner in Mandan, N.D. He serves on the board of the Mandan Progress Organization, which creates and promotes events and projects to enhance Mandan’s business climate and generate community pride. He also serves on the Bismarck Industries board.

He was an active member of the universal playground committee that raised $500,000 to build a universal playground in Mandan. That playground has become a destination, with the next closest universal playground being 110 miles away.

Liepitz serves on his church’s Human Resources Committee and enjoys participating in and helping lead faith groups.

“Karl is always willing to take on responsibility for projects that benefit others. ... You would never know from his willing attitude and calm nature how full his schedule really is.”

Brad Lindblad

AGE: 29

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE STRATEGIST, GATE CITY BANK FARGO, N.D.

Brad Lindblad joined Gate City Bank in 2016, bringing his experience and technical knowledge from the emerging field of business intelligence to the organization. His blend of programming, analytics and sales experience has been a vital asset for growth.

Lindblad is a cancer survivor and gives back to the community by volunteering at Kamp KACE and mentoring newly-diagnosed cancer patients, especially children and teens. He also volunteers with a big-brother mentoring foundation.

Lindblad is an FAA Remote Pilot and a contributing writer to various outdoor publications, as well as a published author. He received a business degree and an MBA from North Dakota State University.

“Brad’s understanding of business intelligence and his sense of urgency have benefited every company he has worked for. … Brad has not only brains but heart, and that is what makes him stand out.”

Cody Marshall

AGE: 35

CO-FOUNDER AND VICE PRESIDENT OF SERVICES, STONERIDGE SOFTWARE BARNESVILLE, MINN.

As vice president of services at Stoneridge Software, Cody Marshall leads a team of consultants, architects and project managers who work hard to implement Microsoft Dynamics business solutions for maximum business impact.

Marshall’s leadership has resulted in the delivery of innovative software solutions. Marshall spearheaded an internal “Center of Excellence” initiative to develop repeatable processes for operational efficiency and the best client experience. Under his leadership in client services, Stoneridge has seen more than 50 projects through to completion, leading to revenue growth of more than 365 percent.

Prior to Stoneridge, Marshall worked at Microsoft. He has a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn.

“With Cody’s leadership in the client services area, the company has grown from less than $1 million in revenue to nearly $14 million within five years of being in business. Stoneridge Software recently earned a spot on the Inc. 5000’s fastest growing companies in America.”

Justin Maddison

AGE: 38

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, WESTERN COOPERATIVE CREDIT UNION WILLISTON, N.D.

Justin Maddison has a business administration degree from Dickinson State University and an MBA from the University of Montana. He has spent most of his career in financial services, starting as a teller, then as a loan officer and currently as the chief financial officer at Western Cooperative Credit Union.

Maddison is a graduate of Leadership Williston and is a member of the CUNA Management School class of 2018. He’s the co-chair of the Mardi Gras committee for St. Joseph’s School, a volunteer money counter for St. Joseph’s parish, former chairman of the Williston Salvation Army Advisory Board and a current board member and former president of the Williston Regional Economic Development Corp.

He and his wife of 12 years, Patricia, have two boys, James and Ethan.

“Justin rallies the staff together to get the best progress and positive changes to keep up with the fast-paced financial world, while still keeping with our humble Credit Union values.”

Corey Mock

AGE: 32

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GREATER GRAND FORKS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS; MINORITY LEADER, NORTH DAKOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

GRAND FORKS, N.D.

Corey Mock is best known for civic engagement, volunteerism and supporting young professionals and entrepreneurs.

In 2008, Mock, then 23, graduated from UND and was elected to the North Dakota House, where he serves today as minority leader. Mock became executive director of Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals in 2014; he and his leadership team strive to make Grand Forks America’s best small city for young professionals.

Mock is a founding member of 1 Million Cups, Startup Grand Forks and Alley Alive. He’s a volunteer and senior staff member of American Legion Boys State and a director for Grand Forks Public Library, UND College of Arts & Sciences Advisory Board and other groups.

Mock and his wife, Jeannie, live in Grand Forks with their newborn son, Grayson, and their golden retrievers, Macie and TJ. Together they own Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales and consult on leadership development.

“Corey is recognizable to almost everyone and is known for all of the good work he’s done and continues to do while managing his time between his family and community involvement.”