2022-2023 Leadership Minnesota participant profiles
Minnesota’s economic engine is powered by more than 100,000 businesses, a diverse landscape interconnected in ways not understood by the casual observer. For a select group, Leadership Minnesota opens the window to a behind-the-scenes look at what makes our state’s economy tick. This exclusive program also helps you understand how public policy crafted at the Capitol impacts the vitality of each and every Minnesota company. By establishing a rich network of Minnesota business leaders, your shared experiences make you more effective leaders at your workplace.
Check back to this page as more of our wonderful 2022-2023 Leadership Minnesota participants are profiled!
Profiled on April 17
Tell us why you love your company!
I love working at Solidify Manufacturing as we pursue growth and strive to serve our customers and employees to the best of our ability. Moreover, as a privately owned company we have a feel of a family owned company.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I enjoy fishing, learning and cooking (probably in that order).
Who or what are you inspired by?
The people I have been most inspired by are leaders that have made a career through developing and raising the level of everyone around them. Taking this opportunity to thank a few people have truly inspired me: Joyce Block, Andrew Dallas and Paul Way.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Focus on the people around you, building and developing strong teams allows one to take on the problems worth solving.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Tequila – It’s one word (I am not a great singer).
What was your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience?
Throughout the program there were many amazing organizations and people throughout the state we had on opportunity to learn from. I enjoyed each session, but my favorite part of the Leadership Minnesota program is being surrounded by talented and successful individuals.
Profiled in February 22
Tell us why you love your company!
At Bremer, we get to help businesses and farmers thrive and grow. It’s fulfilling on a daily basis to work with the people who grow our food, build our economy, and serve our neighbors.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I love the smell of cutting oil in a machine shop! It brings me back to my childhood. I’ve benefitted from manufacturing my entire life. My father had a successful 50 year career in manufacturing. My father-in-law owned a job shop that my husband grew up in. So, of course, my husband is also a machinist and has been in a shop as long as he can remember. They even used to let me work in the shop from time to time. I’m no stranger to deburring parts! And I’ve been fortunate in my banking career to get to continue to work with manufacturers.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by the up and coming generation. I find the newest members of our workforce to be uniquely resourceful and empathetic in a way that’s transforming the workplace into a better place for all.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Savor the journey, it’s most times more profound than the destination.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Uptown Funk so I can be on Anne’s dance crew.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
Hands down, the friendships made. The tours have been outstanding, the tour hosts have been inspiring and full of knowledge, the scenery on the range was breathtaking, the karaoke was humbling, dining on an airplane was cool, I could go on! But the friendships made have been life enhancing!
Profiled on February 17
Tell us why you love your company!
The Minnesota Chamber is about making Minnesota a better place to do business. I love getting to know so many dedicated, mission-driven individuals and inspiring business stories.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I went to school for music (in addition to politics and communications). I still love to listen to it, play it, go to concerts and help foster my daughter’s interest in it.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by history. Learning the stories of people who have led, created, innovated, showed strength, and/or made mistakes can help us better understand ourselves and carve a better path forward for everyone.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Humility leads to strength and not to weakness (can’t take credit for it; it was former U.S. diplomat John J. McCloy).
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Nope. :)
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
The whole experience has been great. The session in Northern Minnesota stands out because I hadn’t experienced first-hand those industries in the past. They are such a critical part of our economy and it was incredible to see up close!
Profiled on February 16
Tell us why you love your company!
I love working at AT&T, so much that I’ve spent 28 years of my career with them! The company has provided me countless opportunities for both personal and professional growth but by far, the highlight has been working with such great people over the years. It’s inspiring to work for a company focused on connecting people to greater possibilities while striving to support the communities they serve.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
About four years ago, I had a severe illness which infected my heart and now I have a mechanical heart valve. In a quiet room you can sometimes hear me clicking! It’s my own party trick.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by people who have overcome overwhelming odds to succeed in life whether personally or professionally. Their determination, grit and drive to triumph over the most difficult of obstacles is inspirational.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Surround yourself with a team comprised of different backgrounds. Diversity in the way people think can be a powerful tool to help move a team forward to achieve their goals.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I don’t sing karaoke but when I do, it is at a Leadership Minnesota event! The song would have to be “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys of Leadership Minnesota.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to learn about the economic impact different areas of Minnesota has on the state’s economy. The tours are fantastic and give an informative, behind-the-scenes perspective of the challenges and opportunities the business community encounters. The best part has to be the people and developing lasting friendships over the last 6 months. I look forward to continuing those relationships beyond the Leadership Minnesota Program.
Profiled on February 15
Tell us why you love your company!
Because every day WGU and our team works to create pathways to opportunity for hundreds of thousands of working adult learners that want to get a high-quality, low-cost education to help them be more successful and their family more financially secure.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
My parents were long-haul truck drivers driving from Minnesota to the west coast, so I spent a decent amount of my childhood in a semi. It provided me the opportunity to see so many amazing sites and enjoy many experiences. It’s one of the reasons I still love road trips to this day.
Who or what are you inspired by?
Seeing others succeed.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Two great quotes from former Secretary of State and Treasury and former White House chief of staff James Baker - "remember the 5 'Ps' - prior preparation prevents poor performance" and (in reference to his role as chief of staff) "you can focus on the 'chief' or you can focus on the 'of staff.' Those who have focused on the 'of staff' have done pretty well."
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I sang The Dance by Garth Brooks (and I think everyone sang along) "I could have missed the pain, but I'd have had to miss the dance."
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
The people and the places. We have an incredibly rich state filled with an amazing variety of business and tremendous leaders.
Profiled on February 14
Tell us why you love your company!
- We are a technology company that is more focused on the PEOPLE than on technology.
- Culture eats strategy for breakfast (per Patrick Lencioni) and Imagine IT team members are very well-fed (culturally speaking).
- We are innovative – one of the first to provide Managed Services (20+ years ago); one of the first to bring Cloud Solutions to small businesses; One of the first to bring enterprise-grade security solutions to small and mid-sized businesses; And now – we’re bring transformative business solutions to those same, difference-making small/mid-sized businesses. That feels awesome!
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I’m probably the only person you know who is a black belt TaeKwonDo instructor and a private pilot, a former DJ and a great cook. So, let’s hang out sometime – I’ll fly us to a remote place, play some music to bask in the moment and then cook up a feast. Or…we could just hang out, drink some good wine and listen to tunes?
Who or what are you inspired by?
Human triumph – in all it’s forms, shapes and sizes. From the Olympian Gold medalist to the first steps of a toddler. I played pickleball this week with a stroke-survivor who still can’t speak more than a few phrases – but she finds joy and plays (rather competitively) at pickleball. That’s inspiring. The single parent who can hardly sleep due to work and child-care obligations but manages to rise up and complete their degree. The 17-year-old girl who isn’t like the other girls – she likes working on engines and cars, but doesn’t have money – scratches together enough money to buy a late-model Chevy and then spends months rebuilding it. People are amazing. Oh, and Elon Musk – he’s pretty amazing. 😊
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Work/life balance is one of the most powerful “live by example” philosophies that too-many leaders tend to miss. My previous admiration for Elon Musk is a great example – he’s accomplished great things, but at what cost? Living with, and losing a loved one to a catastrophic disease changed my approach to ‘living life’ and work needs to support that new balance. If the ‘thing’ needs 50+ hours of work per week to accomplish the goal, then the person (or the job) isn’t well-tuned. Live by example. Get your job done in a reasonable amount of time and SHOW your team what a well-balanced life looks like. Money isn’t the only goal.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Funny, since we did this. I chose “Wild Thing” by Tone Loc – but mostly because of my lack of singing ability. If I could hold a tune I’d probably choose “Starting Over” by Chris Stapeton based on the ‘reboot’ of my life in 2022 (after my wife passed in Nov 2021). It has become my theme song for the year.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I’m sure this theme will be consistent among many – but the PEOPLE are almost always my answer to questions like this – and Leadership Minnesota is no different. Hanging out with other people who have experienced similar successes, failures and challenges – is comforting. As leaders, we’re often placed on a pedestal by our teams and looked UP to for answer. Being with peers is a welcomed elevation change where we can look eye-to-eye and have honest conversations. That said, seeing and learning about the “other” aspects of Minnesota’s economy, industry, governmental forces and the people/companies/organizations that operate in those areas – has been amazing. My naivety bubble has been popped – and the view is amazing.
Profiled on February 13
Tell us why you love your company!
I love this company because it is my company! A company that I have built to use as a platform for good. Good that merges my personal with my professional passions. Passions that are niched to helping people attain financial freedom through real estate investing via the IDEAL approach.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I'm an oxymoron - a true tomboy at heart who loves to get dirty, engage in olympic weightlifting, and swear like a truck driver; yet, loves to hit the town in couture for a glass of wine and some finery.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I'm inspired by my team! They are the rock to my vision! It wouldn't be visible without them.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Communicate...if you feel a "white elephant" in the room; there probably is one - talk it out no matter how uncomfortable!
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Bust a Move by Young MC...
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
The people, first and foremost. Learning about the Minnesota-based companies; walking through the plants; hearing their "why" behind their what...that's just the cherry on top! LOVE IT ALL! I am truly thankful for this opportunity!
Profiled on February 10
Tell us why you love your company!
It is really rewarding working for a family-owned company that has strong values, work ethics and high standards. Ames surrounds themselves with employees with these same attributes who build major projects that improve communities that everyone can be proud of.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I come from a large family where my dad was the youngest of 14. Mom and Dad decided to stop at eight which I am number seven. All our first names start with “M” and my oldest brother and youngest sister were born 15 years apart on the same day.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by people who have goodness in their hearts and strong family values and traditions. It’s really the fabric that makes lifelong relationships and strong communities.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
I think it’s really important to be a good listener and understand all points of a view to interact with people effectively.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I am not big musical guy, but I love country and would probably go with “Boys’Round Here”. I think it is upbeat and would be fun and somewhat challenging too.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
The trip to Grand Rapids has been my favorite so far, never thought we would get 100% participation in Karaoke. The tours were very interesting and time of year was perfect.
Profiled on February 8
Tell us why you love your company!
I love Brown & Brown for our innovative mindset and ‘family first’ culture, our ability to deliver real and meaningful value for our clients, our commitment to giving back to the communities we serve, and for the ability to work alongside phenomenal and talented teammates each and every day!
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I’m a proud Golden Gopher and St. Thomas alum, wife, and mother. When not fulfilling my passions at work, you’ll typically find me on the sidelines of a lacrosse field or bleachers of a hockey rink. Downtime for me is complete with family trips to the lake, boating on the St. Croix, and new outdoor or travel adventures with loved ones.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’ve been blessed by a loving husband, three amazing kiddos, a wonderful family, incredible friends, and great peers – they all inspire me, daily!
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Hard to stray from the Golden Rule…. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. This said, and of similar spirit, Teddy’s summation aims to put it into practice…. “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care”.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Now that’s a loaded question! Music truly has a special way of capturing emotions and memories – for this reason, there are far too many goodies that belong in this camp. “Sweet Caroline” would have my heart for its crowd sing-along, classic, ‘so good’ nature (that takes me right back college); and I’d second that with a lesser known but heartfelt rendition of Kenny Chesney’s “Better Boat” as it boasts my father’s self-proclaimed take on a brave and hard fought journey with cancer.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
Leadership Minnesota has opened my eyes to new challenges and opportunities that exist in this great state. It has opened my heart to new and fellow leaders, industries, and causes. I am certain it will have a lasting impression on my journey both professionally and personally, and am excited about what the future holds alongside all I have met along the way!
Profiled on February 7
Tell us why you love your company!
I love Baker Tilly because of the people I work with and the variety of ways in which we are able to help our clients. I’ve been with the firm for nearly 20 years and many of the people I started with are still around today which is a testament to our culture. The firm also has so many talented team members that I often joke with clients that if they have a question that I can’t answer I can usually find someone who can with a couple of phone calls.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
During the pandemic, our family purchased a boat for something fun to do while there were still several travel and social distancing restrictions. We’ve quickly discovered that the water is our happy place, and we spend most weekends from spring to fall out on the lakes around Minnesota.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by individuals that have the ability to bring out the best in their team members and raise the collective talent and production of their teams.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Whether working with clients, team members or anyone else open and honest communication is key.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I’m not much of a karaoke singer on my own, but would gladly join in with others for group performance of any kind.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
The thing I have enjoyed most is learning about the Companies we have visited, and more specifically understanding their impact to the economy of the State of Minnesota. Hearing how they have worked with the Chamber to navigate challenges they face has really tied the difference facets of the program together. Learning about these companies and sharing the experience with other professionals to gain their perspective from what we learn has been a fantastic experience.
Profiled on February 2
Tell us why you love your company!
I love working for Sappi because they have a people-first culture and make strategic investments to move into growing markets for future generations. I have worked for Sappi for 20 years now and feel fortunate to be part of a company that understands the importance of its employees and has their livelihood and well-being a top priority. This is an amazing achievement for a global company.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I coached youth hockey at all levels, both boys and girls, for 20 years in Cloquet.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by our mill employees. Generations of local families that have kept this facility operating since 1898. We have a quarter century board in our main entrance that shows the names of employees that worked 25 years or more at the mill. Some of our employees are 3rd and 4th generation of family members who have worked at this site. It's very humbling to know that I had an opportunity to be part of that legacy.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Provide an environment that allows your employees to utilize their talents.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I’m a big Zac Brown fan and so I would sing his classic song Knee Deep or Chicken Fried.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
All of it. I’ve come to appreciate just how passionate each Leadership Minnesota member is about not only their own business but learning about other industries. I think each Leadership Minnesota class feels that their class is the best and the fact that they do says a lot about the program and the program leadership.
Profiled on January 31
Tell us why you love your company!
I love working at Marvin because it is a purpose-driven, values-based organization that puts people first, whether that be with the products we make, the services we offer or the benefits that serve our team members. We strive to imagine and create better ways of living, and that’s a pretty powerful goal to work toward each day.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I’m passionate about causes that are focused on diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging. I give my time to Rainbow Health who works at the intersection of race and gender via mental health, housing, heathcare navigation and legal needs. I also work with Save the Boards MPLS moving community forward through the art which followed George Floyd’s killing.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by anyone who is taking a chance. Acting on a leap of faith. Sticking their neck out in support of others to overcome adversity. Those who are challenging the status quo. I admire the risk takers and challenge myself to be one in service to the greater good, too.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Listening is a leadership super power. Challenge yourself to be last to speak. (tough for an animated extrovert!)
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Summer of ’69. Most people know it so they sing along. They sing along loud enough that you don’t actually have to possess singing skills!
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I am so glad to be connecting with other Minnesota-based leaders. As a relatively new Minneapolis transplant – I relocated from Denver in 2019 – it’s exciting to expand my professional network and likely meet some new friends along the way, too. The companies we have visited have expanded my aperture for Minnesota and for business.
Profiled on January 26
Tell us why you love your company!
We have incredible people that make an impact in the lives of our clients, colleagues, and our communities. I’m always inspired by what our team members accomplish on a daily basis.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I’ve never had a sip of coffee in my life. My wife used to work at a coffee shop where they roasted their own beans, and I couldn’t stand the smell of fresh roasted coffee beans.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by our daughter Bailey, who is a six-year-old living with Cystic Fibrosis. While she can’t comprehend just yet that she is my inspiration, her and others that battle this life shortening chronic disease are my heroes. I wake up every day thinking about how we can move one step closer to a cure for Bailey and others who battle CF.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
One piece of advice that has served me well is, to remain curious in every aspect of your life. By showing up every day with a curiosity to learn and improve, I believe you will continue to soak up knowledge that perhaps otherwise wouldn’t have been available to you.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Don’t Stop Believing by Journey. My wife and I have always enjoyed dancing and singing this song together. We have less opportunities to do so today, but the song always brings wonderful memories for us from our journey together.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
Connecting with other likeminded businesspeople and creating friendships has been a wonderful part of the journey. Additionally, meeting and learning about different businesses throughout the state and their opportunities and challenges with doing business in Minnesota has been enlightening.
Profiled on January 25
Tell us why you love your company!
I've been the owner of a Spherion Staffing franchise for 27 years. As a business owner, it’s reassuring to know I have someone in my corner at all times, which is what the Spherion franchise team is for the owners. I love Spherion for that reason and for being a fabulous all-around organization! But in addition to loving the company, I wouldn’t be here this long if I didn’t love the business of placing people in rewarding careers! I’m proud of our work and proud to be a Spherion Staffing franchisee!
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I am writing a book. On June 19, 1970, our family lost my brother, Sgt. Michael W. Notermann, in the Vietnam War. When my mother passed away, I took possession of my brother’s letters and promised the family I’d compile them into a book as a keepsake. But when beginning the project, I realized there is so much more to his story. Like all families affected by the tragedy of war, it’s a story of complete shock, gut-wrenching loss, faith, and recovery.
Who or what are you inspired by?
People who come out of the ashes to make something of themselves inspire me. These individuals have taken hard knocks in life but choose to get up, get out, and make the most of their lives!
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
As the leader, it’s not really about you, it’s about the people you lead. Help them be their best, and they’ll be excited to do their best to reach established goals.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
“Uptown Funk” featuring Bruno Mars because it gets the audience on their feet! Karaoke is all about song choice and not necessarily about voice quality. Distract the audience with your cool dance moves, so they don’t realize how awful your voice is!
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I appreciated and learned from all of the company visits so far. I especially enjoyed learning about what the iron ore industry is doing to restore the land following mining and what the paper industry does for reforestation. It became clear that both industries are focused on their products and processes as much as on environmental issues.
Profiled on January 18
Tell us why you love your company!
I love working for Morgan Stanley, as we are well positioned in the wealth management industry to take advantage of technological advances, and have the size, scale and resources to protect our clients.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
One interesting thing about me is I love to travel and made it to all 50 states by the time I was 30.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by the countless number of people that give their time, talents and treasure to help others.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
I truly try to be nice in the way I lead and I believe that good people finish first.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I would pick something rap or hip hop, as I can not sing, thus I could just say the words
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I am very excited to see all of the industry Minnesota has to offer, especially the businesses that are out-state, as the program provides a unique first-hand look into many amazing companies.
Profiled on January 11
Tell us why you love your company!
I love the teams' "get it done" attitude, everyone goes above and beyond for our customers.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I proposed on a whim to my wife Sara in Florence Italy overlooking Ponte Vecchio which is the only bridge the Germans spared in the Second World War. We then later married in Quepos, Costa Rica.
Who or what are you inspired by?
Former co-worker and friend (John Knoll) who is a great guy, great dad and a great leader. Additionally seeing the light bulb go off for my team and or colleagues genuinely makes me feel good and inspired to do more.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Be humble, listen and lead by example.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I typically try to read the room and pick something that is going to get people going. That said, my go-to is Wagon Wheel by Darrius Rucker given it's what I would sing to my daughter when she was a baby to calm her down.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
So far, the relationships I've already formed have been awesome and the program has been extremely informational and well organized.
Profiled on December 1
Tell us why you love your company!
It starts and ends with the people. I love CLA because of the people I work with and the people I get to serve. The people at CLA come to work each and every day with a clear-cut purpose: to create opportunities for our clients, our people, and our communities. The people at CLA are so much more than accountants — they are colleagues and friends immersed in their respective industries, which means they have the know-how to be real difference-makers for the clients we serve.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I met Marshal Mathers (Eminem) when we were both standing on the street outside my house. Eminem told me he used to live across the street from me.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by my wife Becky and our three children: Haley, TJ, and Kane.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
“Without assistance of that Divine Being….I cannot succeed. With that assistance I cannot fail.” - Abraham Lincoln
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
If I was pressured into singing karaoke, I would grab a few new friends, muster up all the courage that I could, pretend to be a boy band, and belt out the Backstreet Boys classic “I Want It That Way.”
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
Being new to Minnesota, I have loved the new and rich friendships that have developed. As someone who loves serving manufacturers, I thoroughly enjoyed the tours that allow a behind-the-scenes look of so many great Minnesota companies.
Profiled on November 21
Tell us why you love your company!
State Farm is committed to helping people when they need it most, and I love the opportunity to assist. Each of our agents are a small business owner with a passion for serving their community, meaning we serve communities across the nation. The impact is impressive, and the opportunity to make a difference is even greater. I am honored to educate and advocate for our agents and their customers.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
Nature is my happy place – let’s find more ways to be outside!
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by my Dad – he’s a small business owner with the greatest passion for helping people. He models the saying, “If you do what you love, you never really work a day in your life.” His success and passion are not without sacrifice. But all the while, he maintains a positive perspective and a commitment to doing what’s right.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
Never stop listening.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Truth Hurts, Lizzo – because it’s a crowd pleaser 😊
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I have appreciated the inside access to industry and business leaders that impact the economic fabric of Minnesota. The opportunity to learn directly from industry leaders makes this experience impactful. Of course, the camaraderie of the class is icing on the cake!
Profiled on November 10
Tell us why you love your company!
The people! Our people make the difference in the lives of our patients every single day. Not only do they care about their patients, but they care deeply about each other.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
When I was little I lived in Switzerland. I went to an all German-speaking kindergarten and could speak German fluently by the time I was 7.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by entrepreneurs who are not afraid of tackling the next big idea and are willing to take risks to chase their dreams. Those individuals always have the confidence to bet on themselves.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
I’ve been fortunate to learn from many great mentors! Here are a few of my favorite pieces of advice they have given me:
- Say yes to the things everyone else is saying no to. Be the hero in solving something no one else is willing to tackle.
- For young professionals always eager for the next raise/promotion – focus on the role you have and do it SUPER well. You’ll get the promotion if you’re good at what you do.
- As with investments – DIVERSIFY! Learn new things, even if they aren’t directly applicable to what you do. If you aren’t learning, you aren’t growing.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I’m not much of a singer, so instead of a karaoke song, I’ll provide my walk up song – Danza Kuduro, by Don Omar! Every time I hear this song, I want to get up and dance. It always puts me in a good mood. And it reminds me of being on vacation.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I love all the behind the scenes experiences/tours. The exposure to businesses that I wouldn’t normally interact with is always really interesting and enlightening.
Profiled on October 21
Tell us why you love your company.
Sun Country connects our customers to their favorite people, places, and memories. And it’s my job to make sure our employees, together with our union partners, are equipped to deliver on this promise every day. As someone who experiences the joy of hugging loved ones outside of baggage claim, knowing that I’m helping bring that joy in others gets me out of bed every morning.
What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I was voted Most Likely To Be The Next Regis Philbin in high school.
Who or what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by Teddy Roosevelt’s tenacity, Harry Truman’s decisiveness, and Ronald Reagan’s communication.
What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use?
“There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he does not mind who gets the credit.” – Plaque on President Reagan’s desk.
If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Piano Man. Everyone knows it and sings along with you – there are few greater joys than singing together.
What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I am having the time of my life helping this Leadership Minnesota cohort know and understand our incredible state and its diverse economy. I am most excited for their trip to Sun Country Airlines where we can talk about our great Minnesota story.
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