Prairie Business December 2023

PREMIER BUSINESS MAGAZINE OF THE NORTHERN PLAINS | December 2023

2023 UNDER

HONORING 40 OF OUR REGION’S BEST!

WE PROFILE THOSE WHO MADE OUR 40 UNDER 40 LIST | PAGE 24

WHAT’S DRIVING TRENDS IN HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE AND BENEFITS? PAGE 12

Unwrap a more reliable tech partner.

Is your business ready for the holiday rush?

Start the season off right with Midco®. We provide the services you need to keep your business merry, bright and profitable.

Midco.com/Business

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Internet. Phone. TV. Advertising.

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Rob Remark

2020 “40 UNDER 40”

Amanda Kosior 2017 “40 UNDER 40”

Mark Honzay

Mike McLean

2021 “40 UNDER 40”

2018 “40 UNDER 40”

Jennifer Burke Jackson 2017 “40 UNDER 40”

Andrew Budke

2023 “40 UNDER 40”

Todd Medd

2012 “40 UNDER 40”

Nicole Washburn 2014 “40 UNDER 40”

Dan Miller

2009 “20 UNDER 40”

Build something great.

You’ve built your business, now it’s time to build a better workspace. Go ahead, think outside the cubicle, and bring on the daylight. Today’s top talent wants a top workplace with a view — inside and outside. JLG’s dedicated Workplace Studio helps your business remove barriers, calm stress, streamline tasks, and keep inspiration flowing from floor to ceiling. All you need is passion, persistence, and the JLG Architects team.

See how JLG is helping other local businesses attract top talent at jlgarchitects.com

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At Cornerstone Bank, we have a passion for helping our customers achieve financial success by for being the experts At Cornerstone Bank, we have a passion helping our they turn to when making important customers achieve financial success by beingdecisions the experts they turn to when making about their important money. decisions about their money.

Congratulations Congratulations Prairie Business Business 40 Prairie 40under under4040honoree, honoree,

Tahralee Savageau Tahralee Savageau VP Operations VP Operations

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BASIN ELECTRIC

RELIABILITY

POWER YOU CAN A LW AY S D E P E N D O N At Basin Electric, we understand that life doesn’t stop when the going gets tough. No matter the season or storm our members face, reliable and affordable electricity for our members’ homes, schools, and businesses is our mission.

We’ll do everything we can to keep fans running, the lights on, and the coffee brewing.

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Reliable Energy for Our Way of Life.

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BEPC Winter Reliability ad Prairie Business.indd 1

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PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

11/15/2023 3:53:54 PM

Celebrating a Century.

Here’s to a century of serving the communities we love – and a decade of personal bests!

Join the celebration at GateCity.Bank/100.

701-293-2400 • 800-423-3344

44 locations in 23 communities across North Dakota and central Minnesota EOE, Including Disability/Vets | Member FDIC

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TABLEOFCONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

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EDITOR’S NOTE

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

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GENERATION NEXT

BISMARCK STATE PRE-VET STUDENT CHASING CHILDHOOD DREAM

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

18 DIGIKEY SHIPPED ITS ONE MILLIONTH PACKAGE FROM ITS NEW PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION CENTER EXPANSION IN THIEF RIVER FALLS, MINN. PICTURED HERE IS TIM EDDYS, SENIOR SUPERVISOR, SHIPPING; DAVE DOHERTY, PRESIDENT; AND STEPH HESSE, SHIPPING ASSOCIATE.

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10 AREAS TO CONSIDER FOR YEAR-END PLANNING

BY JENNY HUOTARI

PRAIRIE NEWS

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS FARGO SW UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT, OWNERSHIP SUBMITTED

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FEATURES

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12 INSURANCE

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EMPLOYEES WANT FLEXIBILITY IN THEIR BENEFITS AND HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

GUEST COLUMN

PRAIRIE NEWS

DIGIKEY REACHES ONE MILLIONTH PACKAGE MILESTONE AT NEW PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION CENTER SUBMITTED

GUEST COLUMN

EXCELLENT EMPLOYEES NEEDED!

BY MATTHEW MOHR

PRAIRIE PEOPLE

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INSIGHTS & INTUITION

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BY THE NUMBERS

JOSH SCHOENBERG AE2S PROMOTES JOSH SCHOENBERG

2023 UNDER 24 CONGRATULATIONS TO 2023’S 40 UNDER 40 HONOREES!

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

GRAND FORKS, N.D. • AE2S ANNOUNCES THE PROMOTION OF JOSH SCHOENBERG TO BECOME THE CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING ENGINEERING FIRM’S INSTRUMENTATION AND CONTROLS (I&C) GROUP MANAGER. IN HIS NEW ROLE, SCHOENBERG WILL MANAGE THE INTERNAL OPERATIONS OF THE FIRM’S I&C TEAM. “JOSH WILL CONTINUE PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO HIS EXISTING CLIENTS WHILE ALSO USING ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS AND HIS ATTENTION TO DETAIL TO WORK ALONGSIDE OUR OPERATIONS MANAGERS IN MANAGING THE INTERNAL OPERATIONS OF OUR I&C TEAM,” SAID DARRELL CASTEEL, AE2S OPERATIONS DIRECTOR. “FROM FIRM-WIDE WORKLOAD COORDINATION TO TRAINING AND STAFFING, JOSH WILL WORK HARD TO ENSURE THAT WE CONTINUE TO HAVE THE RIGHT TEAM WITH THE RIGHT TRAINING TO TRULY DELIVER FOR OUR CLIENTS.” SCHOENBERG JOINED AE2S IN 2021 AS AN INDUSTRIAL / I&C PROJECT MANAGER. HE EARNED HIS DEGREE IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING FROM NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY. VISIT WWW.PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM TO SEE THESE AND OTHER NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS AND AWARD WINNERS IN THE REGION.

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Is dedicated fiber internet worth it?

By Midco Business When it comes to your business, struggling with your internet connection is far more than just an inconvenience. It can slow down your employees’ productivity. It can lead to a bad experience for customers.

And if you don’t have the right connection for your organization, it can bring your whole operation to a grinding halt.

What is dedicated fiber?

Dedicated fiber is just what it sounds like: A dedicated internet connection solely for your business. It’s like driving down a highway that belongs to you – and you alone. There’s no one else clogging up the lanes or causing backups or traffic jams. It’s smooth sailing all day, every day.

Does your business need dedicated fiber internet?

It depends. One important factor to consider is your internet demand: Do your

employees require the internet?

Would you be able to deliver services without a solid connection? Do you have remote employees who rely on a VPN? Are cloud-based services integral to your daily operations?

To put it another way, how much money would internet downtime cost you, and would that affect your ability to generate revenue?

If the cost of internet downtime is too high, dedicated fiber would be a good fit for your business.

Reliability you can count on.

With dedicated fiber internet, Midco delivers up to 99.999% reliability, which means your internet is virtually foolproof.

Instead of worrying whether your internet is up and running, you can focus your energy on growing your business.

A dedicated fiber network is also super speedy with symmetrical upload and

download speeds, as well as incredibly low latency and jitter.

• Latency is the speed at which data travels over the network.

• Jitter is latency inconsistency between each data packet.

Together, this amounts to a consistently fast connection you can always rely on.

So, is dedicated fiber internet worth it?

Not all businesses need a dedicated fiber connection – and that’s OK! If your work is primarily hands-on, not in a typical office setting or not reliant on an internet connection, we recommend a different internet option.

However, if your business would stop due to a lost connection, or if internet downtime would seriously impact your revenue, dedicated fiber internet is a must to set your business up for success now and into the future.

Visit Midco.com/Business/Internet to learn more about your service and DDoS protection options.

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EDITOR’SNOTE December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

40 UNDER 40

CARRIE MCDERMOTT

EDITOR

LIST HIGHLIGHT’S REGION’S BEST HONOREES MAKING STRIDES IN THEIR PROFESSIONS AND COMMUNITIES.

D

ecember is the time of year to reflect on the past 12 months, the changes we’ve experienced and the goals we’ve realized. I’ve been at the helm of Prairie Business for the past nine editions and I’ve enjoyed working on each one.

I’ve learned more about my new home, Grand Forks, as well as businesses in the larger region we serve – North Dakota, South Dakota and western Minnesota. Those who make this area a great place to live and work are featured each month on our pages. This month, we highlight 40 top young professionals who are doing great things in their industries with our 40 Under 40 list.

These professionals are ambitious and impactful in their careers and personal lives. We read through nearly 100 nominations and narrowed it down to the 40 we feel best exemplify the traits required for success – great work ethics, service to others, innovation, impactfulness and creativity. To be a success, these leaders also find a way to balance their family lives with their professional lives, which can be challenging at times, but necessary.

I hope you enjoy reading about those who have achieved the high standards needed to be named a Prairie Business 40 Under 40 recipient. We look forward to the future of our region, knowing these professionals will continue to do great things both in their careers and in their communities.

This month, we also have a feature on health insurance and employee benefits – what employers want for their workers, what employees are expecting, and how to manage the ever-increasing costs of those benefit plans.

Later in December, we’ll open up nominations for our annual Top 25 Women in Business contest, which will run through mid-January. Look for the link on the Prairie Business website mid-month. Those honorees will be profiled in our March edition.

Here’s to wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a healthy and successful 2024!

Best wishes, Carrie McDermott

PUBLISHER KORRIE WENZEL

AD DIRECTOR STACI LORD

EDITOR CARRIE MCDERMOTT

CIRCULATION MANAGER BETH BOHLMAN

LAYOUT DESIGN SARA SLABY

ACCOUNT MANAGER NICHOLE ERTMAN

800.477.6572 ext. 1162

nertman@prairiebusinessmagazine.com

Prairie Business magazine is published monthly by the Grand Forks Herald and Forum Communications Company with offices at 3535 31st St. S., Suite 205, Grand Forks, ND 58201. Subscriptions are available free of charge. Back issue quantities are limited and subject to availability ($2/copy prepaid). The opinions of writers featured in Prairie Business are their own. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork are encouraged but will not be returned without a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are free prairiebusinessmagazine.com

ADDRESS CORRECTIONS I look forward to hearing from you at cmcdermott@prairiebusinessmagazine.com or 701-780-1276.

Prairie Business magazine Box 6008 Grand Forks, ND 58206-6008 Beth Bohlman: bbohlman@prairiebusinessmagazine.com

ONLINE

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GROW HERE TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS

Tailored financing, expert advice, and a commitment to help local entrepreneurs succeed.

If you’re ready to do more for your business, let’s talk.

ANN HAM

®

NIK PICKETT • ANN HAM • DUSTY RICHTER • GREG STEMEN • MIKE WICKHAM Fargo Urban Plains | 2754 Brandt Dr. S

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INSURANCE December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

EMPLOYEES WANT FLEXIBILITY IN THEIR BENEFITS AND HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE PTO, PAID VOLUNTEER TIME AND HEALTH SPENDING ACCOUNTS ARE SOUGHT AFTER.

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

E EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COMPENSATION PACKAGES CAN INCLUDE HEALTH INSURANCE, PAID VACATION, PENSION PLANS, PARENTAL LEAVE, PERKS AND BONUSES.

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very November, American workers sign up for health-care coverage for the following year. Every year, that cost continues to rise.

Employer-based health-care coverage in 2024 is expected to increase at its fastest pace as inflation affects insurance policies. KFF, formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation, estimates employees paid an average of $8,475 for their share of the nearly $24,000 annual premium for a family policy in 2023, up 7% from the previous year.

Over the past five years, the average premium for family coverage has increased by 22% compared to a 27% increase in workers’ wages and 21% inflation.

The average deductible among covered workers in a plan with a general annual deductible is $1,735 for sin-

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

gle coverage. Workers at smaller companies on average contribute $2,445 more toward the cost of family coverage than workers at larger firms, a KFF survey found.

The type of health-care coverage and other benefits offered by a company can be a deciding factor in whether a job candidate accepts a position. Employer benefits can include traditional offerings such as health plans, company-paid life insurance, paid time off and paid and flexible holidays, as well as newer benefits like paid parental/adoption leave, flexible work arrangements, on-site fitness centers and flexible savings accounts.

According to information provided by North Dakota Job Service, 71% of all companies in the state offered single medical insurance to full-time employees in 2022, and 56% offered family medical insurance. Dental insurance was offered by 52% of companies and vision insurance was offered by 44%.

Health savings accounts and flexible savings accounts are growing in popularity. One in five companies in North Dakota, or 20%, offered HSAs and 17% offered FSAs in 2022. Vacation time was offered by 71% of employers and general/PTO time was offered by 43%.

In November, Prairie Business spoke with two leaders at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota to find out what employer groups, and workers, are asking for in the way of coverage.

Joan McCusker is the executive vice president of operations and corporate strategy with BCBSND. She provided a perspective on the employee benefits package the company offers.

Kristi Huber, executive vice president and chief marketing officer, talked about employee trends and what BCBSND is hearing from employers.

“Employees work for pay, benefits and satisfaction. We consider satisfaction as part of the benefits we provide. It’s a very im-

KRISTI HUBER

JOAN MCCUSKER

portant way we make our employees feel valued and supported,” McCusker said.

Allowing employees flexibility is a key driver of that satisfaction, and became a priority during the pandemic. At many businesses across the country, employees were sent home to work early on, and the employer had to adjust – allowing their employees to be safe and still continue to serve their members or customers.

About a third of the BCBSND staff continues to work remotely by choice, about a third are hybrid – working a few days in the office per week and a few from home – and the remaining third come into the office each day.

In addition to the flexibility of the workday, McCusker said employees are also requesting flexibility in benefits, such as moving from traditional pension plans to 401(k) plans.

“It provides more flexibility to employees who choose not to stay with a company as many years as they had previously. People also CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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INSURANCE December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 want flexibility in their PTO schedules, their holiday schedules. We tend to offer some standard holidays, but also give three flex holidays,” McCusker said.

Another trend gaining traction is more respect and attention being given to mental health. There’s less stigma around those issues and more acceptance of benefits related to mental or behavioral health.

Huber said across the board, employers are looking to lower their costs of health insurance premiums. Medical costs are driven by price inflation, utilization, increasing regulations, rising chronic conditions and obesity, and specialty drug proliferation.

More than half of U.S. adults, nearly 52%, have a chronic condition — arthritis, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coronary heart disease, asthma, diabetes, hepatitis, hypertension, stroke, and weak or failing kidneys — according to the CDC’s National Health Interview Survey data. More than 27% of U.S. adults have multiple chronic conditions.

Multiple chronic conditions not only increase treatment complexity but they also increase treatment costs. Less than 5% of the U.S. population accounts for 50% of health-care spending.

Engagement is the key to managing chronic conditions, but people have become disengaged in their care, according to a 2023 Cost of Care report by BCBSND. Cost-management strategies include population health management – analyzing data to identify the top three conditions of a specific population (an employer group, for example), and recommending interventions, programs and tools to support those members; case management program – for those with serious illnesses, injuries or disabilities, nurse case managers help them succeed with their treatment plans at no additional cost; and disease-specific programming and prevention – utilization of a digital tool to provide a customized, targeted approach for diabetes prevention, for example.

The behavioral and substance use crisis across the country is affecting North Dakota employers, as well. In 2021, a quarter of North Dakotans reported having had behavioral health symptoms in the past year.

Telehealth and online therapy are helping treat those experiencing behavioral health and substance abuse issues.

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THIS CHART SHOWS THE PERCENTAGE OF COMPANIES IN NORTH DAKOTA OFFERING BENEFITS TO EMPLOYEES IN 2022. COURTESY ND JOB SERVICE

THIS CHART SHOWS THE INCREASE IN HEALTH-CARE INSURANCE PREMIUMS OVER 10 YEARS FOR NORTH DAKOTA, SOUTH DAKOTA AND MINNESOTA. COURTESY KFF’S STATE HEALTH FACTS

Some employers are adding computer-based therapies that can help individuals experiencing depression, anxiety and insomnia, for example. Accessing these resources from the privacy and comfort of home, especially in rural areas where in-person visits to professional therapists may be more challenging, are added benefits workers appreciate, McCusker explained.

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Health insurance plans are also promoting wellness programs in their various employer packages. Preventative care including coaching for healthier lifestyle choices, tobacco cessation or weight loss, for example, are becoming the norm. A healthier workforce is expected to translate into lower health-care costs for the employee and employer.

Paid time off for volunteer work is another new trend employers are offering.

Younger workers are typically asking for this benefit during the initial interview stage, but all employees tend to use that benefit if it’s offered by their employer.

McCusker said parental leave is another benefit BCBSND offers, for individuals who have a new baby in the home or have recently adopted a child.

A benefit that’s being offered by some larger companies is student loan matching contributions to a 401(k). For example, full- and part-time employees who qualify for a company’s 401(k) and contribute 2% of their eligible pay toward their student loans through payroll deductions receive an employer match equal to 5% of their pay deposited into their 401(k), or whatever amount the company offers. Program recipients receive the match without being required to make any 401(k) contributions of their own, allowing them to use more of their earnings to pay off their student loans.

The size of the company and the industry an employee works in make a difference in the type of benefits offered, as well as the cost. According to the KFF report, the majority of workers in the U.S. are employed by larger companies (200 or more workers).

Ninety-eight percent of all large firms offered health benefits in 2023, and 100% of larger firms (1,000 or more employees) offered coverage. Seventy-six percent of state or local governments across the country offered health benefits to their employees, followed by 71% of manufacturers and 65% of finance companies. Of the smallest employers, with three to nine workers, approximately 39% offered health insurance benefits to their workers.

At BCBSND, Huber said employers are seeing higher levels of attendance and workers are reporting feeling healthier when wellness programs are used. It’s changing the conversation of managers, who are encouraged to lead by example and take advantage of the wellness programs offered.

“In order for employer groups to see the success of having a great insurance product, it’s about giving them the tools, the education on the tools and how to best utilize the benefits that come with the plan,” Huber said. “At the heart of it, it’s really about engagement.”

We believe in the limitless possibilities of community.

Our offerings include Business Insurance, Employee Health & Benefits, Private Client Services and Retirement Services.

See how we can help your business go further at

MarshMMA.com

CONGRATULATIONS

CHRISTA!

Above and Beyond

Congratulations to our very own Christa DeVries, PE on being a 40 Under 40 honoree! Bringing out the best in everyone she works with, Christa goes above and beyond in everything she does. We are proud to have her on our team!

www.bannerassociates.com

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GENERATIONNEXT December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

GRACE LETTEER

Bismarck State College

“

Major: Science, pre-veterinary requirements Graduation date: 2024 Career path: transfer to another school for BA, eventually get her Master’s degree, then Ph.D. to become a veterinarian I’ve always loved animals and working with them.

I’ve often volunteered at the Humane Society, my uncle worked there for a while. It’s just always been a passion of mine.

BISMARCK STATE PRE-VET STUDENT

CHASING CHILDHOOD DREAM GRACE LETTEER TOUTS THE FACULTY’S HELP, CARE IN HER CHOICE TO ATTEND BSC A SECOND TIME.

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

A

t 25, Grace Letteer is a bit older than most of her classmates at Bismarck State College, but this isn’t her first taste of college. She graduated from the same school with an associate degree in business management in 2017. She worked for three years at a dental office and recently decided to go back to school and pursue her childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian.

“I’ve always loved animals and working with them,” she said. “I’ve often volunteered at the Humane Society — my uncle worked there for a while. It’s just always been a passion of mine.”

A Bismarck native, she grew up around animals, having a pet guinea pig and lots of fish and eventually dogs.

The decision to return to Bismarck State College to begin her new career path was easy, she said.

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“The second time around, I chose BSC because the help and the care from the staff at Bismarck State College has been huge,” Letteer said.

Although a bit nervous to return to an academic setting after being in the working world for a few years, she said the faculty and staff at BSC made it very easy.

“I made time in my schedule to sit down with an adviser and figure out what I need to have in order to go on to the next step.

They’re very personable and make you feel very comfortable there,” she said.

Her favorite class so far, surprisingly to her, is finite mathematics.

“I was never a math person. I always despised math in high school,” she said. But her instructor, Associate Professor Taryn Chase, has been “amazing to work with.”

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“I remember stopping by after the first week of class just to say ‘Thank you.’ I was so nervous,” Letteer said. “I hadn’t taken a math class in seven years. She makes it super easy to understand. She gets so excited about it, which is also kind of fun because you’re also getting excited, too. She’s really broken things down.”

Letteer said Chase makes her own worksheets that students follow along with in class, which are very helpful.

“She really has everything laid out in a way that makes it easier to understand, which is awesome,” Letteer said.

Math fundamentals are necessary to be able to understand the science classes Letteer is taking.

“It’s helpful because I’m also in chemistry this semester. I was not expecting the

amount of math you have to do in that,” Letteer said. “It’s been helpful taking both classes side by side, both instructors are really good. If I need help, they’re always available.”

She said the instructors are very available for their students, some even giving out their personal cell numbers along with their email addresses, and they’re quick to respond to student inquiries for help.

Although she is years away from achieving her ultimate Ph.D., and she may go to other schools out of state to get there, Letteer intends to work as a veterinarian in North Dakota. Her interest in working within the state comes from having friends and family who work on farms and ranches.

“I’ve learned we don’t have a lot of veterinarians that are specialized in certain animals. We don’t have a vet in North Dakota that specializes in pigs, for example. I know there are a couple of pig farms outside of New Salem. If they have complications, a lot of times, they’re unable to save the animal because we don’t have a specialist in the area able to get to them,” Letteer said.

She would like to specialize in the more uncommon breeds and even exotic animals.

“As far as snakes and lizards go, we’re seeing more of them up here than we used to and we don’t have a lot of people that are specialized and have a lot of experience working with those animals, so it’s kind of a new thing in the industry up here,” she said.

“I’d like to bring that care here to North Dakota so they don’t have to go so far to find it.”

She will minor in zoology to give her a strong foundation in understanding what different animals need in terms of their environment, their food and overall well being.

Outside of her studies, Letteer does find time for extracurricular activities. She recently auditioned for the winter play, and was chosen to be part of the production.

“I did a lot of drama and plays and speech in high school and thought it would be a fun opportunity to do in my free time and will be interesting to do at this level,” she said.

Letteer recommends Bismarck State College to anyone considering college in North Dakota.

“BSC is one of the best options out there. It’s very affordable,” she said. “My sister is going to a large university elsewhere and is paying almost triple what I’m paying. Listening to our stories, I’m receiving far better one-on-one, personalized interaction with the instructors and the courses than she’s receiving somewhere else. BSC really feels like more of a com-

STUDENTS AT BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE ARE SUPPORTED BY FACULTY AND STAFF. COURTESY BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE

WHETHER A STUDENT IS A FIRST-TIME FRESHMAN OR A VETERAN RETURNING TO SCHOOL AFTER YEARS AWAY, BSC OFFERS A NUMBER OF STUDENT SERVICES TO HELP THEM SUCCEED DURING THEIR COLLEGE CAREER AND BEYOND. COURTESY BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE

munity. Everyone’s really friendly there.

It’s comfortable and so fun.”

She appreciates knowing the faculty and staff are focused on the students and helping them achieve their goals.

“It’s a really good feeling. I feel a lot more people succeed in that environment,” Letteer said. “And you’re never too old to go back. I’m so glad I made this decision. It feels like I’m doing the right thing.”

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GUESTCOLUMN December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

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AREAS TO CONSIDER FOR YEAR-END PLANNING

JENNY HUOTARI

BY JENNY HUOTARI

Y

ear-end can be a hectic period for business owners, involving tasks like organizing financial statements, assessing performance, and exploring growth opportunities. However, a more proactive and strategic approach to year-end planning can streamline the process and enhance financial efficiency.

Here are 10 key considerations to kickstart your year-end planning.

6. Wealth Planning Ensure your tax and investment decisions align. Understand the tax implications of liquidating different assets, review your financial plan regularly, establish an investment strategy, secure appropriate insurance coverage, and think about your desired legacy.

1. Tax Planning & Compliance When it comes to tax planning and compliance, ask yourself if you’re prepared to file your individual and business tax returns on time. Consider the potential impact of proposed tax legislation, especially if you have over 50 full-time equivalent employees.

Ensure you’ve filed the necessary 1094 and 1095-C forms and consulted with a tax advisor to maximize available tax credits and deductions.

7. Retirement Plans Review your company’s retirement plan, considering its size and anticipated growth. Ensure compliance with reporting requirements based on plan size and participant numbers.

2. Technology Review your technology needs and the relevance of your current software systems. Determine if they provide the necessary information needed to run your business. Assess whether your technology supports remote or hybrid work environments.

8. Outsourcing Needs Evaluate whether it’s the right time to outsource payroll and bookkeeping services. Explore the potential benefits of hiring an outsourced CFO partner to facilitate business growth.

9. Exit Planning Plan for business sale or acquisition well in advance, ideally 5-10 years before the intended transaction. Consider the tax implications and strategize accordingly.

3. Cybersecurity Cybersecurity is crucial for year-end planning. Ensure you’ve adequately protected your systems, data, and business reputation. Identify potential cyber threats and implement staff training to prevent security breaches.

10. Fraud Address potential fraud concerns by implementing checks and balances. Review internal controls to protect your business effectively.

4. Data Analytics Evaluate your ability to use data for informed decision-making and whether your company can make sense of its data. Verify your access to data sources and the health of your information.

Assess your proficiency in data visualization.

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO YEAR-END PLANNING

5. Human Resources Examine your human resources practices. Conduct a comprehensive review of your employee handbook to ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws. Keep personnel files in order, follow best recruitment and retention practices, and use HR to prevent fraud.

Year-end encompasses various aspects beyond paperwork and financials. It demands a holistic perspective that considers tax planning, compliance, technology, cybersecurity, data analytics, human resources, wealth planning, retirement plans, outsourcing, exit planning, and fraud prevention.

Taking a comprehensive approach and asking the right questions can simplify the year-end planning process and empower you to make strategic decisions that position your business for growth in the upcoming year.

For a more detailed version of this article, visit www.eidebailly. com/yearend.

Jenni Huotari is a partner and outsourced & managed services lead at Eide Bailly, Fargo, N.D.

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Congratulations for being named to Prairie Business

40UNDER40

Diana Hermes

Grand Forks Public Health is proud to recognize Tiffany Boespflug in the latest cohort of 40 Under 40 honorees.

Her commitment to the vision of GFPH of healthy people, healthy environment, healthy community is truly inspiring.

Congratulations, Tiffany!

Visit our website wahpetondailynews.com

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PRAIRIENEWS December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS FARGO SW UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT, OWNERSHIP SUBMITTED EPIC Companies has acquired Holiday Inn Express SW I-94 Medical Center, located at 4711 19th Ave S., Fargo, North Dakota.

EPIC Companies purchased the hotel from Brandt Holdings Group and has slated S&L Hospitality to manage the hotel.

The hotel is located just over one mile from the Sanford Area Medical Center and within 15 minutes of Hector International Airport (FAR), NDSU, and Fargo’s premier shopping destinations, such as the West Acres shopping center. The hotel is also within walking distance of terrific restaurants, theaters, and nightlife.

The hotel, built in 2015, features 110 well-appointed, modern guestrooms and suites with amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, comfortable workspace, 42-inch HDTVs with expanded cable, mini fridges, in-room recharge stations, and a spacious living area. Guests can also make themselves at home with complimentary hot breakfast, 4,000 square foot pool area with

water features, state of the art fitness center, flexible meeting space and much more.

S&L Hospitality is excited to welcome Holiday Inn Express Fargo SW – I-94 Medical Center to its portfolio of managed hotels.

“I am extremely honored for the opportunity to join such a highly recognized and reputable hospitality management team,” said Justin Carlson, general manager of Holiday Inn Express Fargo SW. “Our hotel will continue to provide the highest level of customer service to our guests and our team looks forward to being an active business partner in the Fargo community.”

The S&L Hospitality team is honored to bring its expertise in the hospitality industry to Fargo.

“This hotel is the perfect platform for our proven methods of driving revenue and ensuring operational efficiencies. We look forward to positioning this hotel as the market leader for years to come,” said Eric Lund, CEO of S&L Hospitality.

As a part of IHG Hotels, rewards are accepted during any stay. This is the third IHG Hotel

Congratulations Zachary, on being recognized as one of the top 40 under 40 in Business!

that EPIC Companies owns after purchasing the Holiday Inn Express and Holiday Inn on 13th Avenue in December 2022. Holiday Inn is geared more towards family and team travelers whereas Holiday Inn Express is geared towards business and short stay travelers.

S&L Hospitality has also been assisting EPIC with the development of The Wave Waterpark Resort project slated to open in 2025. This acquisition eases EPIC further into hospitality, as they previously announced developing their own hybrid hotel brand I M A G I N E by EPIC to come to Grand Forks, Fargo and Minot.

Congratulations Kevin Leier!

Your work drive, dedication, and enthusiasm has helped continue to make our bison ranch successful and grow.

We are so proud of your accomplishments.

www.heartlandbison.com

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DIGIKEY REACHES ONE MILLIONTH PACKAGE MILESTONE AT NEW PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION CENTER SUBMITTED DigiKey, a leading global commerce distributor offering the largest selection of technical components and automation products in stock for immediate shipment, announced that it has shipped its one millionth package from its new Product Distribution Center expansion (PDCe). The facility shipped its first package on March 25, 2022, and allows DigiKey to pick, pack and ship nearly three times the previous daily average of 27,000 packages to customers in more than 180 countries around the world.

“DigiKey is excited to celebrate this milestone as it’s a testament to the tremendous teamwork and unwavering focus on our customers,” said Chris Lauer, vice president of order fulfillment at DigiKey. “This would not have been possible without the hard work of all of our team members in Thief River Falls, Fargo, Bloomington and around the world.”

The state-of-the-art 2.2 millionsquare-foot distribution center was designed to expand capacity, allowing for plenty of room to scale up as order volume continues to increase, as well as increasing the number of new products DigiKey can offer for customers’ design and manufacturing needs.

The PDCe features two primary conveyor systems to provide redundancy in the case of a breakdown and provide opportunities for future growth. There are over 27 miles of automated conveyor belt in the new facility, and an average order will travel more than 3,200 feet inside the building.

In addition to utilizing available third-party systems, DigiKey has also designed its own systems that further automate the pick process and improve traceability and create more accurate pick quantities. The PDCe also provides additional room for DigiKey’s carrier partners to grow and incorporate their own automation on site that will allow for ongoing and improved delivery options to customers.

Your future demands no limits.

Congratulations to Brandi Hedin, Business Insurance Advisor at Marsh McLennan Agency!

Our team is proud to recognize Brandi as one of Prairie Business’ “40 Under 40”. This award celebrates the significant impact she has made in her career and community, as a young professional.

MarshMMA.com

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EXCELLENT

EMPLOYEES NEEDED! M

any businesses, if not all, in our region are finding it difficult to attract, retain and engage employees. Business owners complain good employees are hard to find. With the regional employment rate hovering around 2%, we have a low supply of available labor for most jobs. North Dakota statistics indicate the state unemployment rate was 1.9% in August this year, which may be essentially considered full employment.

Employees are viewed as “good” if they possess and use the skills necessary to complete the job tasks, arrive on time and ready to work, have a commitment to doing the job right, engage themselves with their co-workers and embrace the business culture.

Reviewing the “40 Under 40” individuals highlighted in this issue shows there are still great people and employees in our region. Each of these 40 individuals would be a great addition to any organization. The challenge for every business is finding and continuing to keep top producers. Compounding this difficult task is the prevalent attitude among younger workers about success being linked to shorter stays with each employer.

Some time ago, someone penned the idea people would change jobs every three years or less. This idea was widely accepted without documentation. Young workers today consider moving from one employer to another as an indication of success rather than the inability to keep a job. Employees, especially those new to the workforce, with professional skills consider job hopping a success strategy. The younger folks I speak to are quick to point out how “successful” a person must be because they have changed jobs three times in three years – surely each job came with more

money, so they are deemed a success. Unfortunately, this erroneous idea of success continues and the real effects of job hopping will not become evident until it’s too late. Overspending based on the next hoped-for job/wage increase, increased debt, and no stable retirement plan or savings will ultimately result in a lot of challenges, as these people continue to search for a better life and find themselves empty-handed.

Great employers strive to do whatever they can to facilitate the success of employees. Average employees do enough to just get by. Building a great enterprise with many long-term successful individuals is an exception, but an exhilarating experience. Financial rewards over time are only one small measure of a person’s success. Similarly, a ping-pong table in the breakroom doesn’t make an employer great!

Returning to our “40 under 40,” these folks are the exception and are extraordinary individuals who will ultimately be the successful leaders in our region. Qualities beyond professional knowledge, such as commitment to do the work right, staying the course through good and bad, as well as having personal motivation to go beyond the basic requirements will always be the path to success.

MATTHEW MOHR

Matthew Mohr is president of Dacotah Paper Co. based in Fargo, North Dakota.

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Congrats

BRIAN HALVERSON “Since assuming the role of President in 2018, Brian has brought innovation and forward-thinking to Heartland Trust. His leadership has driven the implementation of new systems and essential software needed for our future growth.”

Gary Hanson

( HEARTLAND’S CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER)

(701) 235-2002

heartlandtrust.com

THINKING BIG & GOING BEYOND. Congrats to Dustin Dale on being named one of the Top 40 Under 40 in Business!

Dustin Dale, PE, CFM, thinks big and goes beyond every day as the Client Development Director at AE2S. Over the course of his 15-year career, he has been involved in everything from planning and design through construction and operations for small projects to billion-dollar programss.

Dustin is deeply involved in the Rapid City community and many South Dakota water organizations. Thank you for everything you do to improve our community, Dustin!

www.ae2s.com

Engineering and Beyond

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2023 UNDER

Congratulations TO 2023’S 40 UNDER 40 HONOREES!

BY CARRIE MCDERMOTT

T

his year’s 40 Under 40 honorees are high-caliber professionals from a variety of industries who are making significant impacts in their professions and communities.

They are administrators, community leaders, entrepreneurs, industry executives, and more. These exceptional individuals are making their mark in their companies and sectors.

We are impressed with everyone on this list and think you will be, too.

Congratulations to all of the 2023 recipients and thank you for making our region a great place to live and work! * Nominees have to be age 40 or younger in 2023.

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GABRIELLE (GABBY) ABOUASSALY AGE: 29 | DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION CONSULTANT Sanford Health Bismarck, N.D. Gabby Abouassaly is a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant for the Bismarck region of Sanford Health. In this role she creates strategies in those areas as well focusing on health equity and population health.

Abouassaly started with Sanford as an administrative fellow with observational rotations with the senior leadership team in Bismarck, along with elective rotations in Health Services Division Operations, Imagenetics, Telehealth and Legislative Affairs. She has also chaired the company’s inaugural DE&I Council, a role in which she continues. Her notable accomplishments include oversight of international recruitment, development of health disparities action plan, and partnering with operational and clinical leaders to

develop and implement operations plans to lower care costs and enhance the community’s health.

Abouassaly earned her bachelor’s degree in physiology from the University of Iowa as well as master’s degrees in epidemiology and public health.

In the community, she serves as the vice president of the Bismarck-Mandan Young Professionals Network, board member of the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony, board member of the Health Equity Committee through the state of North Dakota and member of the Human Relations Committee for the City of Bismarck. Abouassaly is a graduate of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Bismarck Mandan and Women’s Leadership programs.

RILEY AKERVIK

RYAN ANDERSON

AGE: 24 FINANCE DIRECTOR

AGE: 39 SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

Central Valley Health District Jamestown, N.D.

JE Dunn Construction Co. Williston, N.D.

Riley Akervik, CHFP, has been the finance director for Central Valley Health District in Jamestown, North Dakota, for two years. He is responsible for all things finance at the district, including budgets, audits, payroll, insurance and cash flow management. Along with these duties, he assists other administrative team members with operational aspects of the clinic. He provides clear and concise insight on what the best decisions are for the district. Akervik has driven a nearly 20% increase in cash flow for the district over the last two years, working diligently to reduce costs and increase revenue.

He graduated in 2021 from the University of Jamestown with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and financial planning.

Akervik dedicates numerous hours to the growth of those around him and volunteers for organizations in the Jamestown community. Locally, he is on the board for the Arts Center and Young Professionals of Jamestown group. Nationally, he has been recognized for his work in public service. He was featured in a publication by the Government Finance Officers Association, in which he was recognized for his achievements and leadership to over 30,000 readers across the U.S. and Canada. He was also appointed to one of their standing committees, where he will work over the coming years to better public finance across the nation.

Ryan Anderson is a senior project manager and office leader at JE Dunn Construction Company in Williston, North Dakota. In six years, he has led 20 successful projects across the finish line. Anderson has significantly contributed to the North Dakota landscape through his work on projects such as New England Public School addition and remodel, Dunn County Courthouse remodel and expansion, and the Williams County Social Services building, among others. His resume of projects includes K-12, higher education, sports, government, early childhood centers, healthcare and entertainment. He’s worked in the construction industry for 22 years, starting in high school.

Anderson earned a Bachelor of Science in construction management technology from Oklahoma State University.

He began his career as a project engineer, working on a design-build projects for a global energy company in western Colorado and eastern Utah.

As a member of the CTE Advisory Committee in Dickinson, North Dakota, he started a program for high school students to intern with JE Dunn, a successful program that’s now used in Williston. He has demonstrated a commitment to improving company processes, promoting the construction industry to future generations of leaders, and making considerable contributions to the communities JE Dunn serves.

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TIFFANY BOESPFLUG AGE: 41 REGISTERED NURSE, WOMEN’S WAY COORDINATOR, HEALTH PROMOTION TEAM LEADER

EMILY BIVENS AGE: 35 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Grand Forks Public Health – City of Grand Forks Grand Forks, N.D.

Jamestown Area Chamber and Jamestown Tourism Jamestown, N.D. Emily Bivens has been the executive director of the Jamestown Chamber of Commerce since 2018. In 2022, she oversaw the process to combine the chamber with Jamestown Tourism and now serves as executive director of both 501c6 entities. She also leads the Jamestown DMV as part of the chamber, overseeing a six-member staff.

Under her leadership, Bivens has increased chamber membership benefits while also looking for ways to enhance the community for better visitor experiences and possible workforce recruits.

Bivens has a Bachelor of Science focused on sport and fitness administration/management from North Dakota State University. She sits on multiple boards including the Jamestown Downtown Association, Child in our Hands Daycare, and Jamestown/Stutsman Development Corps as ex-officio. She is also an active Rotarian.

When she isn’t thinking about growing the community of Jamestown, Bivens spends her free time with her husband and three children, chauffeuring them to piano, choir, volleyball, golf, or hockey. She also enjoys golfing, playing volleyball in the local women’s league and hosting board game nights with friends and family.

Tiffany Boespflug, RN, is the Women’s Way coordinator and health promotion team leader for Grand Forks Public Health for the city of Grand Forks, North Dakota. In her capacity as team leader, Boespflug oversees the Entire Women’s Way program for Grand Forks County, as well as the Tobacco Prevention program, two of the largest initiatives in public health. Through her leadership, Women’s Way in Grand Forks County has consistently set the standard for breast and cervical cancer screenings, saving countless lives through prevention. Similarly, her work with tobacco prevention is constantly connecting people with programs to stop our youth from vaping, smoking, and more. Boespflug also handles communications for the department and worked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to connect the community to Public Health resources.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and finding fun things to do with her family including the many activities they get involved in. Boespflug enjoys seeing and supporting others to succeed and grow whether it is her family members, clients, colleagues or the children she gets to know and watch through the activities her own kids are involved in. She likes being active in the community and finding a purpose and helping others.

She and her husband, Travis Boespflug, have three children - Brynlie, Havyn and Sutton.

MARCUS BOYKIN AGE: 37 | VP, RETAIL MANAGER, BUSINESS LENDER Gate City Bank Williston, N.D. As the vice president, retail manager and business banker for Gate City Bank in Williston, North Dakota, Marcus Boykin oversees one of the company’s busiest retail locations. He holds multiple roles within his team. He not only serves as the manager of the Williston and Mohall branches, but he also takes care of customers with their mortgage loan needs and businesses with their commercial loan needs. In addition, he is overseeing the bank’s expansion in the western part of North Dakota with an additional location in Williston set to open in 2024.

While attending North Dakota State University for a major in finance, Boykin joined the Gate City Bank team as a full-time item processing clerk. One year later, he graduated from NDSU with a Bachelor of Science in finance in 2010. He moved to Williston after graduation and was promoted to personal loan officer. After three

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years, Boykin was promoted to manager overseeing all team members in Williston and Mohall.

He is an active volunteer in the Williston community. Having a passion for home improvement projects and helping people in need, Boykin ignited the City Revitalization Loan Program with the City of Williston Housing Commission and was paramount in its fruition. This program makes it affordable for those on fixed incomes to preserve older homes, helping keep neighborhoods from falling into disrepair using low-interest loans. He coordinates the company’s annual volunteer week in Medora, North Dakota, helping the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, and has served on several board of directors including Williston Lions Club.

Boykin lives in Williston with his wife, Kirsten, and their four children – ages 12, 10, 4 and 2.

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Congratulations Madison!

We’re so proud of you.

For your leadership and commitment to a better way of life in our communities.

Keep up the amazing work!

Thank you for being a fearless Flintster and your perpetual dedication to our clients.

Marcus Boykin www.flint-group.com

GateCity.Bank

VP & Retail Manager

INSPIRED BY OUR PEOPLE We would like to congratulate Jared Mack, Senior Manager, for being named to Prairie Business Magazine’s 40 Under 40 list. Jared’s dedication to improving the lives of our clients and the Bismarck community is an inspiration to all.

Thank you for all you do, Jared!

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JAKE BRAUNAGEL, PE

ZACH BRAATEN AGE: 35 CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

AGE: 36 AVIATION GROUP LEADER

L2 Contracting Fargo, N.D.

KLJ Engineering LLC Sioux Falls, S.D.

As the COO of L2 Contracting, based in Fargo, North Dakota, and previous concrete superintendent, Zach Braaten runs multiple crews throughout the state of North Dakota throughout the year that are working on largescale concrete and dirt projects. His team works on completing jobs for companies such as American Crystal Sugar, WestCon, Cenex, North Dakota National Guard as well as various mixed-use projects. Braaten and his team have grown their concrete division from 10 employees to roughly 40, being able to employ a multitude of people along with supporting many different industries.

His degree in management information systems quickly navigated him to take on the role of an engineer on numerous jobs by reading plans and coding work to guide his team to finish the project. Braaten also is the sole operator of their screed along with power troll equipment and puts in many long hours to ensure the projects meet the client’s expectations once complete. Braaten has also incorporated new technology that has helped improve efficiency and increase profitability at L2 Contracting.

L2 Contracting is very involved with the Shriners organization, has done additional site work for a few non-profits in the area, is a proud supporter of the local law enforcement agencies, along with working on numerous different projects that support the local community.

In his spare time, Braaten enjoys spending time with friends, hanging out with his brothers, going to the lake, and watching football. He is married to McKenzy and has two children, Aubrie and Chezney. The family lives in West Fargo, North Dakota.

Jake Braunagel is a registered professional engineer in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska and Iowa. He’s a skilled problem solver and leads with exceptional insight at KLJ Engineering LLC (KLJ). Braunagel is an experienced and knowledgeable group leader within KLJ’s aviation team.

With more than 14 years of experience in airport design, construction, project development and client management, he provides day-to-day advisory, communication and technical skills. He’s been with the company since 2010 and is a consistent resource within the company.

Braunagel earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from North Dakota State University. He’s an active member of the National Society of Professional Engineers, the South Dakota Engineering Society-Eastern Chapter, and the Sioux Falls Young Professional Network.

Braunagel’s community involvement includes coaching and mentoring youth T-ball and volunteering at local robotics, aviation and mathematics competitions. He encourages participation and engagement opportunities whenever he can and has led various volunteering endeavors at airports in the region as well as supported others to be involved with the local engineering groups.

ANDREW BUDKE AGE: 35 | PROJECT ARCHITECT JLG Architects Grand Forks, N.D. Andrew Budke, AIA, is a registered architect (North Dakota) and project architect at JLG Architects in Grand Forks, North Dakota. He has been employed by JLG for 13 years, working his way from print shop technician to project support, job captain.

He was promoted to project architect in 2022.

In this role, Budke leads complex community, civic, educational and commercial design projects across the Midwest and nation. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects and a board member and past board chair of the Grand Forks Downtown Development Association, in addition to his appointment to the Grand Forks Planning and Zoning Commission.

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Budke graduated summa cum laude in 2012, earning a Master of Architecture and Bachelor of Science with majors in environmental design and music from North Dakota State University. At NDSU, he was a graduate research assistant, served as president of the Tau Sigma Delta Architecture Honor Society, and recipient of the Presidential Scholarship, Bill Euren Fellowship, North Dakota State Grant, and multiple others. Budke has also been an active member of NDSU’s inaugural Design-Build Studio.

Budke is a compassionate leader, colleague, mentor, and community member, committed to improving and growing the region through architectural impact, non-profit advocacy, systematic change and ongoing public service.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

CONGRATULATIONS STEVE! Steve Sauter serves as Executive Vice President for Interstate Bearing Systems Since 1992, Interstate Bearing Systems has provided essential products to businesses across the agriculture, construction, energy, manufacturing, marine, mining, power generation and transportation industries. Our experienced staff and extensive inventory will keep your business rolling.

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Interstate Bearing Systems continues to expand to meet the diverse needs of the industries it serves and has gained a strong reputation for the depth of knowledge and experience offered to our customers.

3801 Commerce Dr, Bismarck, ND 58501 | 701-258-2303

ALEX ALEXA DUCIOAME Moore Engineering Project Manager

PRAIRIE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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MICHAEL P. CARLSON

December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

AGE: 38 GENERAL COUNSEL & SECRETARY

JORDAN COOK

Sterling Management, LLC Fargo, N.D.

AGE: 39 MARKET PRESIDENT Border Bank Fargo, N.D. Jordan Cook is leading the Fargo market of Border Bank as the market president. His main priority is putting the needs of his customers and his staff first. He has been in the banking industry since 2006.

He oversees two branches in the Fargo market. Cook’s primary responsibility in this role is to run the commercial banking department in Fargo. He drives business development for commercial banking for both the loan and deposit sides.

Cook earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration with a concentration in finance and minor in economics from North Dakota State University.

He volunteers at his children’s school, teaches financial literacy to elementary school students through Junior Achievement program and is also involved in the local RMA Chapter.

Michael P. Carlson is general counsel of Sterling Management, LLC and two Fargo, North Dakota-based real estate investment trusts – Sterling Multi-Family Trust and Sterling Office and Industrial Trust.

These trusts collectively own and manage over $1 billion of investment real estate in North Dakota, Minnesota and several other states. Sterling Multifamily Trust is one of a handful of North Dakota-based public companies registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Previously, Carlson was the in-house counsel for Border States in Fargo, and prior to Border States, he was an attorney with Nilles, Selbo & Harrie, Ltd., also in Fargo.

Carlson holds a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Dakota and a Juris Doctorate from the University of North Dakota School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in North Dakota and Minnesota.

Carlson is extremely involved and passionate about his family, his church, the arts and his community. He puts people first and serves as an incredible mentor to many.

C O N G R ATUL ATIONS

MIRANDA MYERS DIRECTOR , RETAIL BANKING

BANKING : MORTGAGE :: RETIREMENT :: WEALTH MANAGEMENT

ALERUS.COM Member FDIC

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MICHAEL CASPER

CHRISTA DEVRIES

AGE: 36 PRESIDENT

AGE: 32 PROJECT ENGINEER

Great States Construction Fargo, N.D.

Banner Associates Sioux Falls, S.D.

Michael Casper is the president and founder of Great States Construction, based in Fargo, N.D. He started the company in 2016 from his home basement and has grown the company to employ more than 25 individuals on the construction team.

Casper grew up around the construction and building communities. After graduating from St. John’s University, he started his career in construction in Minneapolis. After connecting with his brother about Fargo, Casper knew he had a chance to make a significant impact in a growing city. He moved to Fargo and got to work in his basement as a team of one founding Great States Construction.

Since 2016, Casper has led the Great States Construction crew to incredible growth, making the Inc. 5000 list two years in a row, this year as the top company in North Dakota. His company also works with various non-profits such as the North Dakota Autism Foundation and Red River Human Services.

The company constructs buildings to house families or be a place of innovation. Casper accomplishes this by thinking as the owner and what is best for the project.

Casper lives in Fargo with his wife Melissa and their four children.

Christa DeVries is a project engineer at Banner Associates in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where she stands out for her exemplary customer service, methodical task management and superlative communication skills. Clients commend her rapid response time and her kind and humble demeanor. She knows her discipline intimately.

DeVries earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering with environmental emphasis and environmental studies in 2013 from Iowa State University and a Master of Science in environmental engineering in 2020 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her specialized knowledge in ultraviolet (UV) disinfection and overall experience with wastewater treatment processes has enhanced many projects at the firm.

Her unrelenting curiosity contributes to her dedication evaluating and implementing innovative solutions, and her work has positively impacted thousands of lives across South Dakota.

In her personal time, DeVries volunteers at the Humane Society of Sioux Falls where she helps walk and care for dogs until they are placed with their forever home. She enjoys trips to the dog park with her own canine, Baxter. DeVries also enjoys riding on bike trails, playing disc golf and spending time with friends.

CONGR AT U L AT ION S T O T HE 2 0 2 3

40 UNDER 40 HONOREES The University of North Dakota is proud to recognize the 2023 class of 40 under 40.

Tiffany Boespflug

Congratulations to all, especially those on the list that make us #UNDproud!

Alexa Ducioame

Michael P. Carlson Andrew D. Williams

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ASHLEE ERICKSON

VOL 24 ISSUE 12

AGE: 38 OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR

DUSTIN DALE

Noridian Healthcare Solutions Fargo, N.D.

AGE: 38 CLIENT DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Ashlee Erickson is an operations supervisor leading the North Dakota Medicaid Contact Center of Noridian in Fargo. She leads by example and has built a culture of both compassion and competence in the call center team of 15, and the team has thrived.

Callers to the ND Medicaid Call Center include more than 16,000 health-care providers and more than 95,000 Medicaid members.

For Erickson, success is the consequence of problem-solving, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of elevating the individuals around her – on her team, in the community, and on the other end of the call center. She leads her team by example, with competence and compassion. She reminds her team that behind every question is a neighbor, a grandmother, a niece, or a friend who needs their counsel. Erickson reminds them to begin every call with warmth and a smile in their voice.

She graduated from NDSCS in 2006 with an A.A.S degree in occupational therapy assistant and joined Noridian in 2007 as a customer service representative. Erickson returned to school and achieved an associate degree in health information technology in 2014, transferred to the accounts receivable team prior to being promoted as a supervisor back on the customer service team in 2017.

Call center work is notoriously draining and requires a highly trusted team. To help her team thrive, Erickson organizes paid volunteering time for her team to work together, in a different way, to serve the community. Together, her team works at CCRI in the Fargo-Moorhead communities to prepare and deliver meals. In doing so, she connects and builds the trust needed for a high-performing team. This is an example of her unique problem-solving and ability to find multi-faceted wins.

AE2S Rapid City, S.D. Dustin Dale is a client development director with AE2S in Rapid City, South Dakota, where he oversees the development of business and client relationships. He started with the firm in 2008.

Dale is a registered professional engineer in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, Wyoming and Ohio, as well as a certified floodplain manager.

In 2015, Dale became assistant operations manager at age 30, was promoted to operations manager in 2016, and advanced to client development director in 2022.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from North Dakota State University in 2008, and earned a technical degree in land surveying and mapping sciences from St. Cloud State University in 2014.

In the community, Dale serves as the president of the Rapid City Airport Board of Directors and as the director for Canyon Lake Little League in Rapid City. He has participated in Young Professionals Chamber groups in Fargo-Moorhead and Rapid City. Dale previously received the North Dakota American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Young Professional of the Year Award. He is also the past chair of the South Dakota Section of the AWWA and is currently the vice president of the South Dakota Water and Wastewater Association.

ALEXA DUCIOAME AGE: 34 | PROJECT MANAGER Moore Engineering, Inc. West Fargo, N.D. Alexa Ducioame’s passion for protecting communities from flood disasters is at the core of what she does. She experienced the 1997 flood in Grand Forks, which drove her interest in water resources engineering. She works as a project manager at Moore Engineering, Inc., in West Fargo, North Dakota.

Ducioame joined Moore Engineering in 2010 as an engineering intern while she was attending the University of North Dakota pursuing a civil engineering degree and has earned many promotions since.

Today, she is a certified floodplain manager as well as a project manager with experience ranging from individual homes to multi-billion-dollar projects. Her work on projects like the Ada, Minnesota, Flood Control Project and the Fargo-Moorhead Area Diversion Project has included analyzing unique solutions for complex flooding is-

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sues using levees, diversion channels, and culvert systems all to help lessen the impact of flooding on communities and their residents.

With a passion for promoting diversity in STEM education, Ducioame is committed to serving on multiple local committees and hosts events to make STEM accessible and fun for youth of all ages and backgrounds, inspiring them to explore education and careers in new industries.

Ducioame was chosen as one of the 10 New Faces of Civil Engineering in 2018 by the American Society of Civil Engineers in recognition of her leadership, community service, and work in the engineering industry.

The list of organizations and community involvement by Ducioame is long and includes both industry associations and STEM-related groups involving children.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

AGE: 37 | SYSTEMS & ARCHITECTURE IT MANAGER Arvig Perham, Minn.

Justin Sonnenberg serves as Arvig’s systems and architecture IT manager, where he plays a pivotal role in overseeing the software architecture of developers and engineers who design and optimize Arvig’s technology infrastructure at-large — including websites, project management software, the customer portal, Customer Relationship Management platform, streaming TV service and many others. In this management role, his focus is improving how the software engineering team can safely and rapidly deploy new features and services.

Sonnenberg and his team have had a role in creating and integrating a suite of intuitive applications and integrations — many from scratch. His team’s software has served a range of functions, from moving data more efficiently across dozens of applications, to, in the case of Arvig’s construction management software, streamlining the company’s service delivery process.

He is responsible for ensuring the optimal function of Arvig’s critical business applications and digital tools. These wide-ranging applications impact all of Arvig’s 950 employees and their day-to-day work in some way.

Sonnenberg inspires his team to leverage technology that creates change, such as by programming apps to perform tedious tasks so that the user doesn’t have to. Ultimately, he believes technology shouldn’t hinder progress toward a goal; it should be used to eliminate barriers and get the company closer to addressing problems that matter to employees and customers. He considers a task accomplished when it has the net effect of making the company more effective, customer interactions simpler and employees’ jobs easier.

Sonnenberg has been with Arvig for 14 years, starting as a computer programmer and database analyst in 2010.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Andrew Honeyman PE Andrew is a natural innovator and is leading the industry in critical infrastructure and sustainable energy conservation design projects. Thank you, Andrew, for your passion and dedication.

under

CONGR RATS!

JUSTIN SONNENBERG

LEADING

BY EXAMPLE

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Congratulations, Riley, On your nomination for one of the 40 Under 40 in Business!

We appreciate your hard work, your leadership, and your dedication to public health.

We are SO proud of you!

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TINA MOREY

December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

AGE: 40 FINANCIAL ADVISOR

BRIAN HALVERSON

Legacy Financial Partners Minot, N.D.

AGE: 40 PRESIDENT/CEO

Tina (Christine) Morey began her career in the financial industry in 2009 while working as a senior regional director for Integrity Viking Funds. For nine years, her efforts were spent developing undiscovered wholesaler territories in Minnesota, Colorado and Alaska.

With Morey’s leadership and drive, Minnesota and Colorado quickly became the highest-producing states for the organization. Armed with an extensive skill set and desire to impact clients’ lives directly, she transitioned to a financial advisor role with Legacy Financial Partners in 2018.

Here, she coaches over 400 clients on financial decision-making, using their personal values, goals, and investment research as a guide. Morey also serves on the Investment Committee.

Morey continuously advances her skills, not only to better serve her clients but her teammates as well. She is an LFP resource, especially in mentoring upcoming advisors, reviewing complex cases, and as a subject matter expert for communication pieces.

Outside of her career, she dedicates endless hours and energy to the community of Minot. Morey has spearheaded the Give 360 Minot Pump Track project, which will be launched to the public in 2024. This inclusive park will contain a full-sized track for rigorous training, a “safety town” to teach youth about traffic flow and safety, and most importantly, an ADA-accessible track for children with disabilities. Fulfilling the vision of the pump track facility is a testimony of Morey’s dedication to her community and one of the many examples of her determination.

Morey is also active in the Minot Rotary Club, Minot Area Community Foundation, Minot Area Chamber EDC, Bishop Ryan Catholic Schools, Junior Achievement Program, Meals on Wheels, Lord’s Cupboard, and Souris Valley United Way.

Heartland Trust Company Fargo, N.D. Brian Halverson is the president and CEO of Heartland Trust Company in Fargo, North Dakota. Since being named president, he has brought innovation and forward-thinking to Heartland. Under his leadership, the company has implemented new systems and software where needed, and replaced or upgraded existing systems/processes as necessary to grow and move forward.

Halverson is currently leading an in-depth process to examine, define, and restructure the company to be more efficient while maintaining the quality of service provided to its clients.

Halverson was born and raised in Fargo, and is a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. After college, he worked at Wells Fargo in Minneapolis, followed by six years in dental sales, also in Minneapolis.

In 2012, Halverson joined Heartland Trust Company working in retirement services, moving to wealth management, and trust administration. He has served as president since 2018, and was named president/CEO in 2023.

Halverson has served in multiple positions for nine years on the Plains Art Museum Board, including board chair.

He is also an active member of the Exchange Club and coaches hockey for the Fargo Youth Hockey Association.

DIANA HERMES AGE: 38 | GENERAL MANAGER/ADVERTISING MANAGER Wick Communications/Daily News, News Monitor Wahpeton, N.D. Diana Hermes is the general manager of the Daily News and News Monitor in Wahpeton, North Dakota, as well as the advertising manager. She has a great work ethic and is always inspiring others. Her dedication to her customers and her staff is second to none.

In the general manager role, Hermes’ primary duties are assisting the publisher with daily operations. As the advertising manager, her responsibilities include booking accounts, supervising two sales consultants, and setting goals for monthly projects.

A Hankinson, North Dakota native, Hermes began her career in the newspaper business in 2014. She began in classified sales and quickly moved on to outside sales. She was promoted to advertising supervisor, then advertising manager, and eventually general manager of both newspapers. Hermes has been at the top of the sales team companywide and has received multiple awards for sales including the January Springs Heart and Hustle Award and the

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1 Million Impressions Club. She’s also won numerous awards each year for advertising in the annual North Dakota Newspaper Association’s Better Newspaper Contest.

Hermes volunteers for multiple organizations in her communities, which impacts individuals year-round, something that’s dear to her heart. She gives her time to Make-A-Wish, Lunch Buddies at the local elementary school, Wahpeton Breckenridge Chamber Ambassadors, Out of the Darkness suicide walk, Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, is an Immanuel Lutheran Church board of education member and is a Sunday School teacher.

Hermes has organized multiple medical benefits and events. She also volunteers at community events including Richland Wilkin Community Foundation.

When Hermes is not devoting her time to work and volunteering, she is devoted to her family including her husband Jamie and daughters Lexi and Hadley.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

SPENCER HILDE

BRANDI HEDIN

AGE: 34 GENERAL MANAGER

AGE: 39 BUSINESS INSURANCE ADVISOR

McGough Construction Fargo, N.D. Spencer Hilde is a career construction professional, serving several key roles on projects throughout his career of more than 15 years. High-profile projects he’s worked on include the Minot Airport, Hartnett Hall at Minot State, Terex Utilities in Watertown, South Dakota, UND Memorial Union, and Fargo Sports Complex. Currently General Manager of McGough Construction’s North Dakota operation, Hilde has been with the firm for more than five years. Previously, he spent nearly seven years working with a fellow general contractor in North Dakota.

Hilde recently completed his MBA at NDSU while working full-time.

Since completion, he’s assumed the general manager position of McGough’s Fargo operation, leading the firm’s office growth attaining more than 35% year-over-year revenue increases. He’s also led some of the largest construction projects in North Dakota, including current projects like Hector Airport Expansion, Fargo Sports Complex, and other major projects within the North Dakota university system.

Hilde oversees a team of more than 50 full-time individuals across the state, while maintaining an exceptional work environment. He also is a positive mentor to his employees, guiding them in their career development goals.

He has served several years as assistant coach of the Minot State Golf team. He lives in Moorhead, Minnesota, with his wife and newborn daughter.

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Marsh McLennan Agency Fargo, N.D. Brandi Hedin is a risk management advisor at Marsh McLennan Agency in Fargo, North Dakota, and has been supporting clients in the Fargo-Moorhead area for 10 years. She stands out among her peers due to the passion, energy and dedication that she has for her clients and the work that she does. Building strong trusting relationships with her clients is the most rewarding aspect of her job.

Understanding her client’s businesses is important to her, so much that Hedin’s clients often feel that she is an extension of their team.

She graduated from MSUM in 2006 with a degree in communications/community health.

Not only is Hedin passionate about the work that she does, but also about the community in which she lives and works. She is a 2018 United Way 35 Under 35 graduate. During this program, Hedin grew not only in her leadership skills but personally. Today, she continues to volunteer with the United Way of Cass/Clay in her free time.

Bennett Uhler 40 Under 40 Honoree

Your continued committment to the success of our clients and communities is inspiring.

Congratulations!

North Dakota | Minnesota | South Dakota | Nebraska | Iowa houstoneng.com

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BOBBIE JO LARSON

December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

AGE: 38 | CHIEF RISK OFFICER

JARED HUIBREGTSE

Bravera Holdings, Corp.

Mandan, N.D.

AGE: 35 BUSINESS MANAGER

Bobbie Larson joined Bravera in 2012 as an internal auditor. She was promoted to audit manager soon after, and in 2017 moved into her current position, the chief risk officer role. Larson is responsible for overseeing all risk management functions, including compliance, credit review, information security, fraud and audit.

Larson practices outstanding work ethics daily. She goes above and beyond to accomplish what needs to be done to ensure success.

She leads a team of 18 employees all with the goals and intentions to keep Bravera customers and employees financially safe.

She is a strong believer in long-term professional development and making it a priority in her practices. Larson has participated in courses such as the Pacific Institute Leadership Program and served as a mentor for Bravera’s mentorship program: Leader at Every Level.

She has been a key component of the company’s growth to a $3 billion financial institution operating in three states. Larson’s team leads the interaction with regulators, ensures compliance with regulations, and is engaged in several strategic initiatives. She leads the due diligence for Bravera acquisitions and has been directly engaged in the acquisition of three banks by Bravera in the past four years. Managing risk is one of the most critical activities of a bank, and Larson’s leadership ensures the company is taking a risk balanced approach and making sound decisions to protect customers, employees and shareholders.

Larson is involved in organizations such as the Institute of Internal Auditors, North Dakota Society of CPAs and NDBA Peer Groups. She has a passion for giving back to her community and does so through the United Way Little Black Dress campaign, United Way Day of Caring, GABR, Walk to End Alzheimer’s and Rebuilding Together. She has had current and past involvement at her children’s school boards and parent-teacher organizations.

Larson resides in Steele, North Dakota, with her husband and three sons.

Bartlett & West Bismarck, N.D. Jared Huibregtse is the business manager at Bartlett & West, where he works with clients to provide system-specific financial guidance and address the growing need for more sustainable asset management. He previously spent seven years with the North Dakota Department of Water Resources, where he managed the state’s biennial water development plan. He was responsible for the prioritization of a project inventory that exceeded $1 billion in funding needs.

Huibregtse holds a bachelor’s degree in construction management and a master’s degree in emergency management, both from North Dakota State University. He also holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Mary. He recently completed a more than 11-year career with the North Dakota Army National Guard.

He regularly presents on funding and regulatory topics at industry conferences. In April 2023, Huibregtse completed his honorable military career in order to spend more time with his wife and two young children. He continues to find ways to stay involved with his community, whether that is through volunteering for local events, serving on Bartlett & West’s MSA United Way committee, supporting the Bis-Man Young Professionals (YP) Network, running in a marathon relay, or most recently, joining the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class of 2024.

JAN LARSON AGE: 39 | DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, S.D. As the director of marketing at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota, Jan Larson has consistently demonstrated her strategic acumen in developing and executing marketing and communication strategies that align perfectly with the university’s goals and values while working to enhance the culture of the university.

Her leadership has led to the implementation of a brand essence refresh, a new website and numerous new digital and traditional marketing campaigns, all of which have expanded the school’s reach and influence in the industry. She consistently seeks new and creative ways to engage prospective students and differentiate the brand. Larson established a comprehensive internal and external communication plan to foster a culture of clear and transparent communication both within and outside the organization.

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She is a motivator who has built and nurtured a high-performing team that consistently delivers outstanding results. Larson is an adaptable learner, always seeking to understand how to navigate through challenges in our industry by adapting marketing strategies to changing market dynamics. In her tenure, colleagues have seen increased brand visibility, and improved engagement amongst all of the university’s constituents.

Larson graduated from the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science in political science and earned a Certificate in Digital Marketing from Columbia Business School.

She previously served as a board member of Mitchell’s First Circuit CASA and currently serves as a board member for the Safe Place of Eastern South Dakota. Larson is a member of Mitchell’s Downtown First United Methodist Church.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

KEVIN LEIER AGE: 35 CO-OWNER AND COO | Heartland Bison Ranch LEAD ADMINISTRATOR | Little Flower Elementary School N.D. EDUCATIONAL HUB DIRECTOR | North Central Education Cooperative Rugby, N.D. Kevin Leier is a young leader making significant contributions to his Rugby, North Dakota, community and wears many hats. He is the co-owner and COO of Heartland Bison Ranch, the lead administrator at Little Flower Elementary School, and the North Dakota Educational Hub director at North Central Education Cooperative.

With a deep-seated passion for education, agriculture, and community development, Leier has established himself as one of the most versatile and influential figures in north-central North Dakota. His early career as an educator was marked by innovative educational initiatives, as exemplified by his contributions to The Cutting Ed Podcast and Rural Perspective Podcast. His fervor for education led him beyond the public school setting as he pursued a graduate degree and assumed the role of principal at the local private elementary school. Simultaneously, he engaged with a state-level education training authority dedicated to nurturing the develop-

ment of young teachers and helping to ensure quality education is maintained in our school systems.

In addition to his dedication to education, Leier is a respected Bison rancher who actively participates in various bison ranching-related boards, advocating for responsible agricultural practices and the preservation of this industry’s heritage. He often works in national advisory roles, working with legislators and promoting the industry outside his family’s ranch.

In the community, he’s played a pivotal role as a volunteer fundraiser, successfully securing over $1 million in donations for the local hospital’s foundation. This monumental effort contributed significantly to the construction of a new facility in the Rugby community, underlining his dedication to community well-being.

Leier has also served as a coach and remains active in his church.

Leier and his wife have six children.

Tina Morey

Financial Advisor

HELPING CLIENTS PLAN A BRIGHTER FUTURE

At Legacy Financial Partners our top priority is to help our clients realize their goals for the future. We focus on their financial aspirations, and we are committed to guiding them towards achieving their objectives, so they can live the life they've always envisioned.

planwithLFP.com 1111 31st Ave SW Ste A • Minot, ND Legacy Financial Partners is a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. 6075418ACMR1123

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NEIL ROESLER

VOL 24 ISSUE 12

JARED MACK

AGE: 39 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LEGAL

AGE: 31 SENIOR AUDIT MANAGER

Sanford Health Fargo, N.D.

Eide Bailly LLP Bismarck, N.D.

Neil Roesler has been executive director of legal at Sanford Health since May 2018.

He is an exceptional attorney providing legal expertise and business guidance on a daily basis covering a multitude of issues that arise. He is always quick to help and provide support to partners, colleagues and clients.

His colleagues appreciate his devotion to teamwork and willingness to talk through complicated matters with their team while working together towards finding the best resolutions for all parties involved. Roesler is the type of person who can be relied on with the knowledge that situations will be handled effectively and with empathy. He is a credit to not only the legal profession but also to health care as a support to the health-care professionals who care for our communities each and every day.

Roesler’s colleagues value him because of his dedication to the team and community. He has a strong work ethic that sets the standard for many, and in addition to his role with Sanford, he is devoted to farming and his family.

Roesler was admitted into the State Bar Association of North Dakota in 2010. He started his career as a law clerk for Justice Dale V. Sandstrom of the North Dakota Supreme Court and went on to clerk for Chief Judge Ralph Erickson of the United States District Court for the District of North Dakota. After clerking, Roesler joined the Vogel firm in Fargo focusing on civil litigation and business law, before joining Sanford Health.

Jared Mack started at Eide Bailly in July 2015 as a tax intern. In 2016, he accepted a full-time position as an audit associate in the audit department. He was quickly promoted to audit senior associate in June 2017 because of his strong work ethic and vast range of knowledge in various service offerings. In 2019, he was promoted to audit manager. In 2022, Mack was promoted to his current role as audit senior manager, in which he provides audit and assurance services to a variety of industries, such as state agencies, school districts, special purpose districts, county and city governments, contractors, retailers, manufacturers, and other commercial businesses.

Mack helps clients improve processes and controls.

He serves as a technical resource throughout the year to help clients ensure they are implementing standards appropriately and recording unusual or infrequent transactions in accordance with appropriate criteria.

Mack was recently named one of this year’s Bismarck Chamber Leadership Program participants. This program is very selective, and has a limited number they can accept. This program works to engage emerging leaders in business and community issues.

In the community, Mack is involved in organizations such as the Association of General Contractors, Construction Leadership Council, N.D. Association of Counties, and others. He also participates regularly in office volunteer outings, such as serving a meal at The Banquet and United Way Day of Caring and encourages staff in his department to join. This year, he was also a part of his office’s Little Black Dress campaign team, which worked to raise money for those living in poverty in the Bismarck-Mandan community.

MIRANDA MYERS AGE: 38 | DIRECTOR OF RETAIL BANKING Alerus Fargo, N.D. Miranda Myers was named director of retail banking at Alerus in February 2023. In this role, she is responsible for all retail bank offerings across Alerus’ footprint, including deposits, consumer lending, teller line services, and branch services. She also leads the implementation of deposits-related initiatives, identifies trends, and evaluates the risk and potential of new technologies, with a focus on providing a high level of client service to meet their evolving needs. Myers oversees approximately 80 team members in 14 branches spread throughout Grand Forks and Fargo, North Dakota, the Twin Cities, and the Phoenix, Arizona metro, and collaborates with other company leaders and teams to ensure the satisfaction of nearly 40,000 consumer clients across the company’s footprint.

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She started with Alerus in 2006 as a teller and with her customer service background, quickly excelled in her role while discovering a passion and talent in helping clients manage their day-to-day finances as well as assisting them in achieving their long-term financial goals.

Myers holds a bachelor’s degree in English and mass communication from Minnesota State University Moorhead. An active member of the banking industry’s Fiserv’s Signature user group, she has earned best practice recognition from the group and currently serves on the group’s branch experience product committee.

Myers and her husband have two young children, which can make balancing a demanding profession, frequent travel, and home life challenging, but she does it all with a smile and an infectious positivity that can uplift the spirits of anyone.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

Congratulatio ons Jake Braunageel on being recognized by Prairie Business as

40 under 40

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ANDREW HONEYMAN

December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

AGE: 35 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER/SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER

MADISON QUAMME AGE: 32 | DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

CMTA, Inc. Fargo, N.D.

Flint Group Fargo, N.D. Madison Quamme is the director of public relations and social media at Fargo-based Flint Group. In this role, she works with clients on a national, regional and local level. She leads a team of professionals who need to be calm and level-headed while thinking innovatively and quickly.

Quamme is willing to jump in and work through any communication issue thrown at her. She stays until the job is done. The company’s clients appreciate how calmly she thinks through situations while jumping into action. She has a rare ability to predict how audiences will react to circumstances and what the appropriate public response should be. Quamme embraces and leverages new technology and stays in front of the company’s ever-changing business.

Prior to her work at Flint Group, she was an account manager at Ironclad Marketing, a communication specialist for Apex Engineering Group, and a marketing coordinator at Discovery Benefits.

Quamme graduated in 2014 from North Dakota State University with a major in public relations and advertising, and minors in health communications and management communications.

In addition to her senior-level leadership position, Quamme finds time to passionately volunteer her time by serving on the Ronald McDonald House as board of directors president; Bison Bidders Bowl Committee member, and PRSA Student Relations chair. She also is a graduate of the FMWF Chamber Leadership program.

Andrew Honeyman, PE, is a Fargo, North Dakota, native who serves as a senior mechanical engineer and business development manager for CMTA’s Midwest – Fargo office. His dedication and perseverance are primary factors in CMTA Midwest’s impressive success. Honeyman works with CMTA customers to decarbonize the built environment. Each day, he is focused on reducing his customers’ carbon footprint by implementing tried and true design principles coupled with the latest green technologies.

Not only is he a local leader in engineering high-performing sustainable buildings, but his substantial knowledge and leadership in these areas are being applied to CMTA customers nationwide. His work with CMTA has spanned more than 10 million square feet of building space and over $500 million in construction projects that affect business and community members throughout the area. This work has improved the reliability and sustainability of community cornerstones in the higher education, healthcare, long-term care, public school systems, commercial, and manufacturing sectors.

When he reflects on what sparked his passion for engineering and design, Honeyman remembers the mentors who took the time to answer his questions and introduced him to the world of STEM. Honeyman frequently meets with high school and college students interested in an engineering career to return the favor while giving back to the community. This mentorship helps students understand what a career in engineering may look like, the process of obtaining an engineering degree, and the daily challenges young people face.

In addition, he regularly speaks at local schools and universities in a question-and-answer format to give advice and tell his story.

Honeyman is also an active volunteer and participant in his local Fargo Chamber of Commerce leadership program, and volunteers with local non-profits interested in starting new or expanding their operations.

Honeyman and his wife are raising three young daughters.

STEVEN SAUTER AGE: 39 | EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Interstate Bearing Systems - a division of Interstate Companies Bismarck, N.D. Steven Sauter is the executive vice president for Interstate Bearing Systems. He is an impressively driven, loyal, dedicated, innovative and hardworking business professional, focused on growth and sustainability and passionate about results in his industry. Sauter cares about people and is a leader in and out of the professional setting. He fights hard for his beliefs and truly values all the people he interacts with; he has a gift for making people laugh and feeling comfortable sharing their opinions, ideas and concerns.

He joined the Interstate Companies in 2006 while attending Bismarck State College. Sauter worked in outside sales from 2007-2012.

He was then promoted to branch manager for Interstate Bearing Systems in Bismarck. During his tenure as branch manager, revenue

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grew six-fold. He took on additional responsibility as branch manager for Interstate Power Systems (IPS) in Bismarck between 2014-2019.

During this time, the Bismarck IPS branch doubled its operating profit. In 2019, he was promoted to vice president for the IPS Western Region which added the responsibility for Bismarck and Williston, North Dakota; Billings, Montana, and Gillette, Wyoming branches. In 2021 he became vice president for Bearing Systems Western Region. In October 2022 Sauter was promoted to executive vice president of Interstate Bearing Systems division which currently has seven locations.

As a third-generation family farm boy from Linton, North Dakota, he has a strong work ethic and value system that comes through to everyone he works with. Sauter lives in Bismarck with his wife, Crystal, and their three children.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

TAHRALEE SAUVAGEAU AGE: 38 | VP OPERATIONS Cornerstone Bank Fargo, N.D. Tahralee Sauvageau is the vice president of operations for Cornerstone Bank in Fargo, North Dakota. She started with the bank in 2019. Prior to joining Cornerstone, she worked in banking for more than 10 years and gained much experience and knowledge of the industry.

She is the embodiment of a leader. Sauvageau has attracted and hired talented team members and is always one to offer solutions when challenges arise. She approaches her work and team with a smile and positivity.

If she doesn’t know the answer to something, she will dig in and do research until she finds it. Sauvageau is also willing to always look at ways to create efficiencies within her team and the bank. She will go the extra mile to get the job done.

She’s also willing to help on any project or task when asked regardless if it’s not her typical duty.

Sauvageau graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a Bachelor of Science in community health.

In addition to her work contributions, Sauvageau coaches a couple of softball teams, and is also a veteran, having served in the National Guard domestically and overseas.

Sauvageau is a mother of three children.

JARROD STEFFAN AGE: 38 REGIONAL PRESIDENT Bravera Bank Dickinson, N.D. As the Regional President at Bravera Bank’s Dickinson, North Dakota office, Jarrod Steffan serves as a mentor to his peers and participates in bank-wide strategic planning. He cultivates relationships with his customers and encourages his employees to do the same. As a farmer/rancher himself, Steffan has a significant understanding of what his customers are experiencing and uses his first-hand knowledge to provide value to his customers.

He handles executive responsibilities for all external services in his designated region. He represents the Bravera culture by leading by example. His daily responsibilities include execution and implementation of the business plan, monitoring of department budgets, and reporting to the bank’s senior management team. He does all of this by promoting a positive and collaborative work environment and encourages teamwork and topnotch customer service.

He started with the company in 2008 as an ag banking officer.

In 2014 he was promoted to Glendive Market president and relocated to fulfill this position, and in 2021, accepted his current position. He celebrated 15 years of service with Bravera this year.

Steffan earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration/ag business from Dakota State University.

Outside of Bravera, Steffan serves on the South Heart School Board.

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DAN WALTER AGE: 37 | SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER Kraus-Anderson Construction Bismarck, N.D. As a senior project manager at Kraus-Anderson Construction in Bismarck, North Dakota, Dan Walter is a reliable and calming influence on his crews, and is a great mentor for interns and young project managers.

As a 2010 NDSU graduate with a Bachelor of Science in construction management, accomplished construction professional and active member of the community, Walter demonstrates the conscientious, industrious and civic-minded service that are hallmarks of our region’s prosperity.

He recently completed construction of the NDSU Nodak Insurance Football Performance Complex, a new $45.2 M state-ofthe-art 144,000-square-foot indoor training facility for the NDSU football team and other men’s and women’s sports teams. Other projects include an outpatient surgery center renovation for Sanford Health Bismarck, new West Fargo Fire Department headquarters, and additions and renovations at schools in Northern Cass School District and Richardton-Taylor Public School District.

Walter has returned to his alma mater as a guest lecturer for construction management classes and serves as an advisor on the NDSU Construction Industry Advisory Council. He has been an excellent role model and resource for numerous NDSU students interested in entering the construction industry.

In his spare time, Walter enjoys the great outdoors, including hunting, fishing, golf, and family time. He enjoys traveling with his wife and spending time with his daughters, 4 and 7, keeping them active in swimming, and traveling to explore zoos locally and as far away as Omaha, Nebraska. He also serves on the NDSU Foundation Golf Committee, organizing this annual golf event benefitting Bismarck-Mandan high school students who may be considering going to NDSU. He volunteers annually with the KA Has Heart program with the KA-sponsored event The Banquet, preparing and serving meals to those in need. Walter gives his whole heart to his work, his community, and the people he cares about.

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• Reliable WiFi connection • Nearby Airbnbs for your visiting guests • Patio/Plaza access • Ticketed concerts in the summer* • Public ice rink in the winter** * Must have ticket for plaza access during ticketed events. **Only when public open skate hours are being hosted .

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BENNETT UHLER AGE: 32 | CIVIL ENGINEER Houston Engineering, Inc. Fargo, N.D. Bennett Uhler is a civil engineer with Houston Engineering in Fargo, North Dakota, Uhler’s colleagues at Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI) recognize his abilities as a natural leader, and he leads many teams on multiple projects. This leadership extends outside of his work at HEI; he completed the Dale Carnegie course where he was selected by his fellow coursemates to receive the highest achievement award upon completion.

As a native of the area and husband to a Minnesota farm girl, Uhler witnessed firsthand the importance of drainage and flood damage reduction efforts within the Red River Basin. His interest in engineering stemmed from a desire to pursue a career centered around math and science, but his interest really piqued after witnessing the flood of 2009 that impacted the Fargo-Moorhead area and surrounding communities. Witnessing how flooding impacted rural communities spurred his interest in helping those communities in the future.

Bennett’s first days at HEI were spent overseeing the construction activities on multiple Fargo and Moorhead flood control projects as a construction observer and field engineer, focusing on

multiple at-risk locations including the Bridgeview and River Oak Circle neighborhoods, and serving as a Resident Project Representative on the Rose Creek Golf Course Flood Mitigation Project.

One current high-profile project that Uhler has worked on is the Whiskey Creek Enhancement project, a $10 million effort to restore more than 12 miles of the creek in Wilkin County, Minnesota.

He also oversees and mentors younger engineers at the firm.

Uhler brings a positive attitude to his work and is encouraging, friendly, and welcoming to those he works with because he is genuine, and cares about people, both those he works with in and outside of the firm and those in and beyond the region. He is humble, hungry, and smart and is respected and valued by his peers as well as those he reports to and who report to him.

Uhler is a 2014 graduate of North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and he holds his Professional Engineer (PE) licenses in North Dakota and Minnesota.

In his spare time, Uhler enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, visiting family and friends, snowboarding and playing softball, and completing home DIY projects.

It’s not just about finding a job – it’s about working for an organization that truly cares about people. At Sanford Health, you’ll find a culture of teamwork with compassionate leaders and coworkers. Here the work of health and healing starts with the people who help us change lives every day. Their work matters here. Yours will too.

Find an opportunity near you. ◄ Scan to apply today.

577-632-235 8/23

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40UNDER40

BRITTANY CAILLIER

December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

AGE: 33 | DIRECTOR OF PHILANTHROPY

LUKE TATGE

Altru Health Foundation Grand Forks, N.D.

AGE: 36 | CREATIVE DIRECTOR Epicosity Sioux Falls, S.D. In his eight years at Epicosity, Luke Tatge has dedicated his time to elevating marketing campaigns and materials through drafting copy for and proofing/editing various types of marketing collateral, blogs, communications, press releases and other client requests. Additionally, he provides creative direction for digital and traditional campaigns and projects for the agency. Tatge is the creative director at the company.

He inspires his team and drives the public to action with every marketing campaign concept for every client — across higher education, government, financial institutions and more. Here, he not only comes up with creative concepts and sees them through production, but he also is an essential part of video production, directing behind the scenes.

Tatge’s passion has always been for writing. In 2012, just a few years out of college, he became a playwright after finishing his first musical.

Little did he know it would actually get the spotlight. Since then, The Good Night Theatre Collective, locally owned and operated by Luke and his husband, has produced and brought to life seven of Tatge’s musicals. He’s written scripts and music, and he even directed some of them. Nearly 11 years later, the first musical he wrote finally hit the stage as the biggest production ever put on by the group.

Through The Good Night Theatre Collective and his role at Epicosity, Tatge has been able to dive deep into the Sioux Falls fine arts and performance art scenes. This inspired him to create two magazines that circulate in the area — Sioux Falls Stage and Sioux Falls Gallery.

Together, they share the stories of those in the community who dedicate their time to enriching the arts scene just as Tatge does.

Tatge has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Augustana University, Sioux Falls.

Brittany Caillier is the director of philanthropy for Altru Health Foundation in Grand Forks, North Dakota. In this role, she leads fundraising efforts for Altru Health System, a non-profit health system serving northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. In addition, she oversees philanthropic programs for the organization, including Safe Kids Grand Forks, TEARS (a suicide prevention program) and the Altru Alliance. Caillier has served as director of philanthropy since 2020; prior to that she was the senior philanthropy specialist for Altru Health Foundation.

Before joining Altru, Caillier served as the senior director of development and director of philanthropy at CVIC (Community Violence Intervention Center). She has also been a steward for the community of Grand Forks, serving on the volunteer boards of the Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals, Valley Senior Living Foundation and North Dakota Ballet Company.

Altru Health Foundation has seen steady growth under Caillier’s leadership, with both number of donors and revenues increasing during her tenure.

She leads with an innovative mindset, spreading that energy across the health system, helping all to dream of new and better ways to provide care (clinical teams) or support caregivers (support teams). Caillier has built a reputation as a high-performing professional in the regional world of philanthropic foundations, with many requests to share her knowledge and expertise, including serving on the prestigious Barry Foundation Scholarship Selection Committee and presenting at the statewide Young Professionals Launch Event.

Caillier earned her bachelor’s degree in economics from Concordia College.

WADE SENGER AGE: 39 | PRINCIPAL ENGINEER, EAST CENTRAL REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Interstate Engineering Jamestown, N.D. (Joseph) Wade Senger is a principal engineer and East Central Regional vice president and board of director member with Interstate Engineering in Jamestown, North Dakota. He joined the firm in 2010, and since then has worked with various clients, primarily focusing on rural water systems and municipal clients. His experience is broad, working on water treatment, water distribution, water storage, wastewater collection, roads, park projects and many others. Senger has worked on large, multi-million dollar projects that have helped the region with better quality water for many residents of communities and rural water users. He also works on structural projects and assists on survey-related items, GIS items and many other tasks.

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His dedication to tackling challenges head-on is truly commendable. As a manager, he exhibits a straightforward and purposeful approach, ensuring that tasks are accomplished efficiently and effectively. What sets Senger apart is his ability to envision the bigger picture and identify how new approaches can bring about positive change. This skill will undoubtedly prove invaluable in enhancing the board structure and benefiting the company as a whole.

Senger is always willing to lend a helping hand on many projects, and is an excellent representation of leading by example. Throughout all of his hard work and success, Senger stays humble and always strives to do what is right. He has become a great mentor to many people within the organization.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from North Dakota State University.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

JE DUNN CONGRATULATES

RYAN ANDERSON

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER FOR BEING NAMED ONE OF PRAIRIE BUSINESS MAGAZINE’S

40 UNDER 40!

“One of Ryan’s biggest attributes is his ability to teach young employees as they enter the workplace. He genuinely cares about their ability to feel comfortable at work and their success in the company,” says James Kramer, Client Solutions for JE Dunn. jedunn.com

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40UNDER40 December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

ANDREW D. WILLIAMS AGE: 38 | ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAM, AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NORTH & SOUTH DAKOTA PERINATAL QUALITY COLLABORATIVE University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences Grand Forks, N.D. Andrew D. Williams, PhD, MPH, is a perinatal epidemiologist with an interest in structural inequalities and obstetric and pediatric health outcomes with consequences across the life span. He is focused on improving health care for pregnant women and their families in the Northern Plains.

As an assistant professor in the Department of Population Health at the University of North Dakota (UND) School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Williams is taking a multifaceted approach to improving perinatal health in our region by investigating racial disparities in perinatal health, improving care for pregnant and postpartum women and their infants, and promoting collaboration among maternal and child health professionals. Currently he is leading the National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded Stress and Health in American Indian Pregnancies study, investigating the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences, historic trauma, and stress on obstetric and neonatal health among Indigenous women in North Dakota. With support from the North Dakota Department of Health

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and Human Services and the NIH Loan Repayment Program for Health Disparities Research award, Williams is leading work that has identified factors such as poor transportation options, lack of appointment times and gaps in internet access, that contribute to racial disparities in access to prenatal care in our region.

As executive director of the North and South Dakota Perinatal Quality Collaborative (NSDPQC), Williams has secured over $2 million from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Health Resources and Services Administration to implement quality improvement projects at birthing hospitals in North Dakota and South Dakota. As of October 2023, NSDPQC quality improvement projects covered over 80% of all births in North Dakota and over 60% of all births in South Dakota.

Williams lives in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, with his wife, children and dog. In his free time, he is either sad about the current state of Manchester United, reading about wizards and superheroes, or wishing he could take a nap.

PRAIRIEBUSINESSMAGAZINE.COM

Cong Congratulations lations to our Gene G General Manager of North o Dakota, o a Spencer cer Hilde, ffor being honored as a Prairie Prai Business ine 40 under un 40 honoree!

Wee appreciate W at the impact mp you m make for our u peoplee, e partners p s aand locall community. y You’re in in good company. o Congratulations o to you and an all of the t 40 Under 40 honorees! o

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PRAIRIEPEOPLE December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

JOHN ALEXANDER

JOHN ALEXANDER JOINS DAKOTA CREDIT UNION ASSOCIATION ADVOCACY TEAM

BISMARCK, N.D. • Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) is very pleased to announce the latest addition to our team as John Alexander joins the association as director of legislative and regulatory affairs.

John brings expertise in political communications, legislative management, and volunteer engagement to the DakCU organization. With previous experience in intelligence analysis, advancing key legislation, and enhancing advocacy efforts through strategic planning and effective team management, he will be a great asset to association advocacy efforts. John also has extensive experience in project management and event planning in the non-profit sector.

His primary responsibility at DakCU will be to assist the association in meeting legislative and regulatory objectives. Specifically, he will guide legislative affairs and coordinate the political action committee in North Dakota, and lead regulatory advocacy efforts.

“John brings a wealth of experience in advancing legislative policy from both the Texas State House and the Texas State Senate,” said DakCU President/CEO Jeff Olson. “He also has an extensive understanding of policy education and training from his time working at the Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C. We are extremely excited to have John on our advocacy team to help lead our legislative

and regulatory affairs. His vast experience and successful background in training and advancing policy issues will be an asset in our credit union advocacy and engagement strategy moving forward,” he added.

Prior to joining DakCU, John was the acting regional coordinator for The Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C., where he helped lead a team focused on impactful activism events and engagement. Prior to that, he was employed as a senior intern for the U.S. Senate; a contract field organizer for a grassroots political group; and worked as a legislative director for the Texas House of Representatives in Austin, Texas.

John is a fourth-generation Texan and a Navy Veteran who served as an intelligence analyst and operations specialist onboard the USS Kearsarge. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in political communication from the University of Texas at Austin.

“As I step into my role at DakCU, I am filled with excitement and gratitude,” he stated. “Together, we have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the world of advocacy.”

John will be making his home in Bismarck, North Dakota, and will be working from the DakCU office located at 2005 North Kavaney Drive.

TYLER ARNOLD ACKERMAN-ESTVOLD WELCOMES TYLER ARNOLD AS A CIVIL ENGINEER

MINOT, N.D. • Tyler Arnold has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Idaho office as a Civil Engineer. Tyler earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Boise State University, Boise, Idaho. He brings over five years of experience in GIS systems for a large county in Idaho; assisting in creating new data sets, preparing technical reports, and gathering data and data transfers from a variety of sources. Tyler has also worked for a land developer assisting in pre-construction civil design, understanding regulations and QC deliverables related to land development standards.

His responsibilities will focus on project design, research for concept design on projects, GIS, and help cultivate current and new relationships in our Idaho market.

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Noridian congratulates

BRITTANY DIEDERICH EIDE BAILLY WELCOMES BRITTANY DIEDERICH AS DIRECTOR OF CONSTRUCTION CONSULTING

FARGO, N.D. • Brittany Diederich has been hired as director of construction consulting at Eide Bailly. She is excited about the opportunity to collaborate with Eide Bailly’s construction industry professionals. They will work together to address various challenges for Eide Bailly clients, such as talent acquisition, technology optimization, and succession planning. There’s a lot of meaningful work ahead of us.

Before joining Eide Bailly, Brittany worked at a heavy highway construction company for 11 years. She started as the director of finance and administration and eventually became a part-owner. In this role, she was involved in diverse projects, but she’s especially proud of her work in digitizing critical construction document processes. Brittany also played a key role in resolving legal issues and securing the company’s prequalification, enabling them to win their largest contract.

Eide Bailly is thrilled to welcome Brittany, with her deep industry knowledge and passion for construction. We look forward to the positive impact she will have on the firm.

ASHLEE ERICKSON Supervisor of our North Dakota Medicaid Call Center contract on being selected as part of this year’s 40 Under 40!

Callers include more than 16,000 health care providers and more than 95,000 Medicaid members. They are all North Dakota neighbors to Noridian’s headquarters in Fargo and we are so very proud of you and your team’s excellent service to them.

Thank you for letting the smile in your voice be heard!

Congratulations

BOBBIE & JARROD

DUSTIN GRANDBOIS INTERSTATE ENGINEERING HIRES DUSTIN GRANDBOIS AS STAFF ENGINEER

HORACE, N.D. • Interstate Engineering is excited to announce and welcome Dustin Grandbois to the Horace, North Dakota office. As a staff engineer, he joins the team with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from North Dakota State University.

Dustin specializes in water resources.

His understanding of engineering principles and drive to succeed will make him a valuable asset to the team.

40 UNDER 40 RECIPIENTS

ADV-373

Bobbie Larson Chief Risk Officer

Jarrod Steffan Dickinson Regional President

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PRAIRIEPEOPLE

AE2S PROMOTES JASON WHITESOCK

December 2023

GRAND FORKS, N.D. • AE2S announces the promotion of Jason Whitesock from Instrumentation and Controls (I&C) regional manager to I&C practice leader. As the I&C practice leader, Whitesock will focus on building strong relationships with clients, as well as developing new I&C service offerings.

“Jason is tenaciously client-focused and combines his deep experience in instrumentation, controls, and SCADA with a listening mindset to develop innovative yet robust solutions for our clients,” said Scott Schaefer, AE2S practices director.

Whitesock started as an I&C technician at the civil and environmental consulting engineering firm in 2006.

VOL 24 ISSUE 12

INTERSTATE ENGINEERING HIRES HARVEY FITZGERALD AS OFFICE MANAGER

WILLISTON, N.D. • Interstate Engineering is proud to announce the addition of Harvey Fitzgerald to the firm as office manager of the Williston, North Dakota branch.

Harvey is a professional engineer licensed in North Dakota, Montana, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over eight years of experience, he specializes in geotechnical engineering.

“Harvey’s time in the industry and office management experience have allowed him to take the baton and run in Williston. He is highly respected by clients and other industry professionals and will serve our office and the West Central Region well,” said Lonni Fleck, board president and principal engineer. “His experience and knowledge will be valued assets to our team.”

HARVEY FITZGERALD

INTERSTATE ENGINEERING HIRES SAMUEL IRWIN AS STAFF ENGINEER

SPEARFISH, S.D. • Interstate Engineering’s Spearfish, South Dakota office added Samuel Irwin to the team. As a staff engineer, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.

His understanding of engineering principles, along with his drive to succeed, will complement the growing team.

SAMUEL IRWIN

COMING IN JANUARY

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• Law

• Architecture & Engineering

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COMING IN MARCH • 25 Women in Business

• Banking & Finance Contact Nichole to get your business in front of Prairie Business readers.

We also provide custom digital strategies, including targeted digital ads, video production and content creation.

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NICHOLE ERTMAN 701-780-1162

nertman@prairiebusinessmagazine.com

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CONGRATS, JUSTIN! You are integral in helping Arvig® create a collaborative work environment for our teams and an excellent experience for our customers. We thank you for your leadership, knowledge and dedication.

Want to work with top performers like Justin?

Visit arvigcareers.com.

©Arvig 2023

Congratulations

to these outstanding employees who were voted among Prairie Business Magazine’s

Top 40 under 40!

Special thanks to the valued employers for your membership, dedication and support of the Lignite Energy Council and the coal industry.

Spencer Hilde McGough Construction

Steven Sauter Interstate Bearing Systems

Jake Braunagel KLJ Engineering

Jarrod Steffan Bravera Bank

www.lignite.com

The North Dakota lignite industry provides more than 3,000 direct jobs and 14,000 indirect jobs for the region and its economy.

Congratulations

LUKE TATGE

on being recognized as one of Prairie Business Magazine’s 40 under 40.

51

INSIGHTS&INTUITION

December 2023

Q.

SPONSORED BY

VOL 24 ISSUE 12

INSIGHTS & INTUITION

What are some secrets to good management/leadership that you can share?

Staci Malikowski Chief Financial Officer Arvig Perham, Minn.

While there are many great secrets to being a good manager, the one I’d like to share with you today is GRATITUDE. Demonstrating genuine gratitude is one of the best-kept secrets in how to be not only a “good” manager but an “outstanding” manager.

Genuine gratitude is an inherent characteristic within each of us. What can be challenging is to allow that characteristic to show in the workplace. Think of a time when you felt gratitude toward a friend or family member for an act of kindness or considerate gesture given to you. It was likely very natural for you to respond and express your appreciation toward that person. Your team members are doing the same thing every day. When being led effectively, they are doing their jobs to help achieve the common purpose that you, as their leader, have established and communicated to each of them.

In response to that clear vision, they are collaborating and contributing toward the success of the team. Noticing those efforts and recognizing them through gratitude will create pride, additional motivation and improve the morale of the team members. Letting your inherent gratitude show openly in the workplace is not a sign of being a “soft” or “weak” manager, but rather, is an outstanding management behavior that will create engagement, trust, retention, and greater success in the workplace. Let your inherent gratitude shine!

Not having secrets related to the job is the first secret to good management. Trust and integrity have been a large part of KLJ Engineering’s and my team’s successes over the years.

I’ve learned being upfront is a lot easier.

Showing up and being present would be a close second. It’s easy to tell people to do something, but when you’re in the field with them from time to time, the level of respect for each other vastly improves. I believe it is a lot easier to work for somebody who is visibly a part of the team; so, as a manager, I make sure I’m there as often as I can be. It’s also good to remind yourself of what you put your team through. Simply be there, get a little dirty occasionally.

Finally, take the time to get to know the people around you, if you only discuss work with them, they can find that elsewhere. The managers I remember best are the ones that can remember conversations we had in the past and carry those conversations forward. The conversation was never about work but who you both were as people, our respective identities, whatever they may be. It allowed us to work better together.

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Miles Bullock Construction Supervisor KLJ Engineering Bismarck, N.D.

Effective management and leadership are crucial for the success of any organization. It takes time to find the correct principles that will work for your organization and team. Our organization, EPIC Companies, follows The Energy Bus book as a constant refresher on things we can do to cultivate a positive culture and empower the team. This is always a great reminder for each person who comes on board to reflect on themselves and see if they are helping lead the charge.

Here are some other key principles and secrets to good management and leadership that we are continuously trying to work on each day at EPIC. You hear it said that communication is the key to success but ensuring that we are using quality communication skills, leading by example, building strong relationships, and providing the team with clear goals and a strategic vision help ensure that the communication is going in the right direction.

Many of our other leadership goals revolve around adaptability, recognizing achievements, problem-solving, continuous learning, decision-making, time management, and emotional intelligence.

It’s no secret that effective management and leadership are ongoing processes that require self-reflection and a commitment to continually improving. It takes strong leaders to bring this all together and have it live through the culture of your organization.

DJ Campbell, SHRM-SCP, CDE®

Executive Director/ Human Resources Sanford Health Bismarck, N.D.

McKenzy Braaten Chief Communications Officer EPIC Companies West Fargo, N.D.

Gone are the days when leaders primarily managed personnel, created workflows and ensured tasks were completed. Today, leaders are tasked with inspiring innovation, enhancing productivity and driving results. Enhancing the employee experience is elevating leadership as a business imperative, impacting the sustainability of our people and business operations. More and more, employees look at the organization’s leadership when choosing the company they want to start or continue their career with.

An action-oriented commitment to leadership development is a competitive differentiator; supporting employee attraction, retention and engagement and ensuring employee well-being. Leadership is not the authority you command or the number of followers you have, instead, success as a leader should be measured by the impact you have on your people. A focus on relationships and creating trust through coaching, listening and instilling a sense of belonging within the people you serve are the cornerstones of strong leadership. Agreement is taking the same path while alignment is heading in the same direction. Strong relationships don’t need agreement, they need alignment.

A good leader will help their team realize and establish goals, provide coaching on how to get where they want to go, celebrate milestones as they are achieved and drive business innovation and results.

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BYTHENUMBERS

EMPLOYMENT AND AVERAGE HOURLY EARNINGS BY INDUSTRY

SPONSORED BY

December 2023 VOL 24 ISSUE 12

REASONS FOR UNEMPLOYMENT

Both the unemployment rate, at 3.9 percent, and the number of unemployed persons, at 6.5 million, changed little in October. However, since their recent lows in April, these measures are up by 0.5 percentage point and 849,000, respectively. Among the unemployed, the number of permanent job losers increased by 164,000 over the month to 1.6 million. The number of persons on temporary layoff changed little at 873,000.

Job losers and persons who completed temporary jobs Job losers on temporary layoff Job leavers

Thousands

25,000

Job losers not on temporary layoff Reentrants New entrants

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 20,000

In October, average hourly earnings for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls rose by 7 cents, or 0.2 percent, to $34.00. Over the past 12 months, average hourly earnings have increased by 4.1 percent. In October, average hourly earnings of private-sector production and nonsupervisory employees rose by 10 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $29.19.

Bubble size represents employement level in thousands Mining and logging Construction Wholesale trade Retail trade Utilities Information Professional and business services Private education and health services Other services Average hourly earnings

Manufacturing Transportation and warehousing Financial activities Leisure and hospitality

$55.00 $50.00

15,000 $45.00 10,000 $40.00 5,000 $35.00 0

Oct 2003

Oct 2005

Oct 2007

Oct 2009

Oct 2011

Oct 2013

Oct 2015

Oct 2017

Oct 2019

Oct 2021

Oct 2023

Total private: $34.00

$30.00 $25.00

EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY, MONTHLY CHANGES, WITH CONFIDENCE INTERVALS

$20.00

Total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 150,000 in October, below the average monthly gain of 258,000 over the prior 12 months. In October, job gains occurred in health care, government, and social assistance.

Employment in manufacturing declined due to strike activity. Health care added 58,000 jobs, in line with the average monthly gain of 53,000 over the prior 12 months. Employment in government increased by 51,000 and has returned to its pre-pandemic February 2020 level. Social assistance added 19,000 jobs, compared with the average monthly gain of 23,000 over the prior 12 months. Construction employment continued to trend up (+23,000), about in line with the average monthly gain of 18,000 over the prior 12 months.

Employment Change

90-percent Confidence Interval

Total nonfarm Total private Goods-producing Service providing

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

$15.00

-25

0

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NONFATAL WORK INJURIES AND ILLNESSES RATES

Private industry employers reported 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022, up 7.5 percent from 2021, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in November. This increase is driven by the rise in both injuries, up 4.5 percent to 2.3 million cases, and illnesses up 26.1 percent to 460,700 cases. The increase in illnesses is driven by the rise in respiratory illness cases, up 35.4 percent to 365,000 cases in 2022. This comes after a decrease in respiratory illnesses in 2021 compared to 2020. These estimates are from the Survey of Occupational Injuries and illnesses.

Cases involving days away from work, job restriction, or transfer Cases involving days away from work Cases involving days of job transfer or restriction

Construction Rate (per 100 full-time workers)

Maunfacturing

50

Over-the-month employment change in thousands

Mining and logging

2.0

Wholesale trade

25

Retail trade Transportation and warehouseing

1.5

Utilities Information Financial activities

1.0

Professional and business services Private education and health services Leisure and hospitality

0.5

Other services

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Government

-100

-50

0

50

100

150

Thousands

200

250

300

350

0

2018

2019

VISIT FOR FOR THE THEHOLIDAYS HOLIDAYS VISIT STAY STAY FOR FOR THE THEGOOD GOODLIFE LIFE SEE AA BETTER TIME TOTO MOVE BACK. SEE WHY WHY THERE’S THERE’SNEVER NEVERBEEN BEEN BETTER TIME MOVE BACK.

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2020

2021

2022

FindTheGoodLife.com FindTheGoodLife.com

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Congratulations to Brittany Caillier!

“Brittany’s dedication to serving her community and embedding generosity into the business community is unmatched. Her energy to inspire others to give, either of their time, talents, or financially, is contagious.”

Director of Philanthropy

RELIABLE • PROFESSIONAL • PROBLEM SOLVERS

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Atchison Companies is a private investment firm focused on helping small businesses We are more than investors, we are proven hands-on operators. Atchison Companies works with independent businesses in the manufacturing, distribution & engineering sectors We invest across the Northern Plains with a buy and hold philosophy while providing stable leadership and a proven operating system

Dragon Pride Congrats to the MSUM alumni named to Prairie Business’ 40 Under 40!

Tahralee Sauvageau ’09 (community health) Vice President of Deposit Operations, Cornerstone Bank

Justin Sonnenberg ’11 (computer science) Systems & Architecture IT Manager, Arvig

Andrew Williams ’07 (mass communications) Assistant professor, public health, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of North Dakota

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