DOWNTOWN SHEYENNE STREET IS EMBRACING REVITALIZATION

Jared Twogood

AGE: 32

PRINCIPAL AND COFOUNDER, GT ARCHITECTURE DICKINSON, N.D.

Jared Twogood earned both his bachelor’s degree and master’s in architecture degree from North Dakota State University. He’s a member of the American Institute of Architects, its North Dakota chapter and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.

He’s an active member in the Dickinson chapter of Rotary International, the Dickinson Area Builders Association and Chamber of Commerce. He’s a Downtown Dickinson Association board member and a Dickinson Historical Preservation commissioner.

Over the past few years, he and his wife have bought and manage many rental properties in Fargo, N.D., near North Dakota State University.

“Jared has never been afraid of work. … At age 32, he is the owner of a prominent architecture firm in western North Dakota and of multiple rental properties in eastern North Dakota. He works extra hours to make sure that his clients are happy and the job is done right.”

Justin Valinski was born on Grand Forks Air Force Base and studied business at the University of North Dakota. After graduating, he jumped into restaurant management, where he sharpened his management skills.

Over the years, Valinski has owned or operated businesses in the restaurant, software, veterinary and real estate industries.

With the support of his siblings, Valinski opened a series of mobile veterinary clinics in south Texas while also continuing to head up the Columbia Mall and do some software/ website projects.

Valinski enjoys coaching his daughter’s soccer team and doing outdoor activities. He finds success through work-life balance by taking time to be an executive, entrepreneur, dad and husband.

“Justin is extremely intelligent, well-educated and hard-working. He manages to keep balance in his life and has fun and laughs a lot. … He probably would be embarrassed that I’m nominating him, but he deserves the nomination.”

Justin Valinski

AGE: 38

GENERAL MANAGER, COLUMBIA MALL GRAND FORKS, N.D.

AGE: 29

OWNER/OPERATOR, BLACKOUT INC. ABERDEEN, S.D.

Katie Washnok launched her first entrepreneurial venture while still studying at the University of South Dakota. Alongside her husband, James, she has launched several successful small businesses that she now owns and operates.

These include Blackout Motors, an award-winning custom motorcycle shop; Blackout Industries, which offers commercial-grade laser engraving, etching and fabrication; Blackout Media, with its social media marketing strategy and consulting; and Adrenaline Supply Co., an online retailer to outfit the adrenaline-fueled lifestyle.

Washnok also is a communityinvolvement enthusiast. She serves on The Aberdeen Area Chamber of Commerce board, 1 Million Cups Aberdeen organization team and the First United Methodist Church advisory board. She’s a Junior Achievement classroom volunteer.

She and James live in Aberdeen with their son, Jett.

“Katie and her husband are young business owners who believe in giving back to their community. … Her go-getter attitude inspires others to do more.”