2024-2025 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 2024-2025 Leadership Minnesota participants are profiled!
 

Profiled on February 13

Tell us why you love your company!  
I love that Maslon is an independent law firm with deep Minnesota ties that offers large firm services with a more personal and intimate feel to clients of all sizes. I love that I can work on interesting and complex deals with clients ranging in size from Fortune 500 companies to small closely held businesses.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I studied abroad in Beijing, China in college in 2007. It was fun to be there when the city was getting ready for the Olympics. I interned at an international law firm when I was there. 

Who or what are you inspired by?
By my mom. She was a great role model growing up of how to balance a professional career and family. She always had such an amazing work ethic and commitment to her job and her family.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
“It can be hard to receive negative feedback, but feedback is a gift.  Someone is taking the time to invest in your future success.”

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
“I want to dance with somebody” by Whitney Houston

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
To travel around the world. For 2025 I am planning a trip to Mexico City with a friend and a trip to Europe to celebrate my 10 year wedding anniversary!

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
Anything by Sarah J. Maas. My favorite of her series is The Court of Thorns and Roses series.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I have loved getting to learn about so many amazing businesses throughout the state and meet all of the talented and inspiring people in the program. Throughout the 5 sessions you really get to know people and make genuine connections. I know that even after the program is over that I will have long lasting relationships with the people in the program. 

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota?
Post-it notes. My dad worked at 3M for most of his career and we always had lots of 3M supplies around the house. I definitely used my share of them as a past debater and during law school and studying for the bar exam!

Profiled on February 12

Tell us why you love your company!  
At Gardner Builders, our #1 focus is creating a place where employees feel valued, challenged, and love to come to work. It is amazing to be part of a team with such great energy and value placed on the whole person.

What’s something super interesting about yourself? 
I am active in the local Twin Cities theater community as an actor, board member and volunteer. I am not on stage as much as I'd like to be these days but still find time to be involved in our amazing arts scene here in Minnesota.

What’s on the top of your bucket list? 
My husband and I are avid travelers and love to experience smaller cities and nature in other countries, not always the most common destinations. Taking a road trip through less-travelled parts of a new country is always on my list for the next trip. 

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for? 
This might be the most popular answer, but getting to know the other participants so well has been such a blast. We truly are forming lifelong friendships as well as business connections and I'm so grateful for the people in this cohort. 

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
Now that we are a few sessions into Leadership Minnesota, I can honestly say touring Faribault Woolen Mills was an incredible experience and it might be my new favorite Minnesota-made product. 
 

Profiled on February 11

Tell us why you love your company.
I love that the work we do at MMA has a direct and meaningful impact on companies and their employees. Helping businesses navigate the complexities of benefits while improving the lives of their teams is incredibly rewarding.

What’s something super interesting about yourself? 
After my time in the NFL, I set out on a three-month backpacking journey around the world, hopping from hostel to hostel and immersing myself in different cultures. It was an incredible adventure that took me across multiple continents and gave me a fresh perspective on life, people, and the world as a whole.

Who or what are you inspired by? 
I’m inspired by my family – my wife, my kids, my parents, and my siblings. They motivate me to strive to be the best version of myself: the best husband, father, son, and brother I can be.  I’m also deeply inspired by people who overcome challenges with grace and those who love authentically, finding beauty and gratitude in each day, no matter the circumstances. Their resilience and perspective remind me of what’s truly important in life.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be? 
One piece of leadership advice that resonates deeply with me is a quote from Admiral William McRaven: “A shepherd must smell like his sheep.” To me, this means that as a leader, you must be willing to get in the trenches with your team, lead by example, and show that you’re not above doing the hard work.  True leadership is about serving alongside your team and earning their respect by demonstrating your commitment to the mission.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why? 
If I had to pick a karaoke song, it would probably be Weezer’s Say It Ain’t So – I’ve sung it before, and it’s always a hit! But honestly, the song itself is only part of the equation. A good karaoke performance is all about commitment. Whether it’s Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi or Friends in Low Places by Garth Brooks, they key is to give 100% energy and just own it. If you commit to the bit, the crowd will love it no matter what.

What’s on the top of your bucket list? 
At the top of my bucket list is getting back to traveling, but this time with my family.  I’d love to share those life-changing experiences with my wife and kids – exploring new places, immersing ourselves in different cultures, and creating memories together that they’ll carry with them for a lifetime.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now? 
A book I recently read and really enjoyed is Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing. It tells the incredible story of Ernest Shackleton’s expedition to Antarctica and the crew’s extraordinary survival against impossible odds. It’s inspiring tale of resilience, leadership, and teamwork – definitely worth reading.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for? 
My favorite part of Leadership MN so far has been gaining exposure to the diverse industries that drive our state’s economy. It’s fascinating to see how businesses across MN – from the Iron Range up north to food processing plans in Austin – contribute to our state’s GDP and navigate the impact of public policy. The opportunity to learn about these industries and their challenges has been eye-opening. But more importantly, the chance to connect with incredible people, share experiences, and grow alongside them has truly made this journey unforgettable.

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
The coolest thing made in MN, in my opinion, is Red Wing Boots. Not only are they crafted with exceptional quality and durability, but they asl carry a rich history that represents MN’s hardworking spirit. 
 

Profiled on February 10

Tell us why you love your company!  
I love Barr because of the people and culture. I get to work with really smart engineers and scientists who are passionate about solving complex challenges related to natural resources across the world, and who strive to make a positive difference for clients and communities.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
While I’ve spent the majority of my career in the engineering, environmental and surveying fields in a business strategy role, I spent the early part of my career in sports marketing. I’ve been in a mascot costume at every level, from independent league baseball to a professional sports franchise. 

Who or what are you inspired by?
People who are willing to teach and mentor. 

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
I think the advice that is pertinent to both my 22-year-old self and to leadership today was popularized by the great Ted Lasso: Be curious. Listen to others, ask questions, and understand their perspectives. You may find new ways to solve problems and advance your goals, or even paths you didn’t even know were out there for you to pursue. 

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
My usual go-to, since high school, is  “I Want it that Way” from the Backstreet Boys.

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
I have four states (Oregon, Alabama, Mississippi, and Alaska) left to visit to complete trips to all 50 states. I’d like to make Alaska my last one, with a fishing or hunting trip. 

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
Just before the program began, I started reading Minescapes: Reclaiming Minnesota's Mined Lands by my friend and colleague Pete Kero. The book really helped to contextualize what we experience during this program’s northern Minnesota tours. There is no greater ambassador than Pete to showcase the circular economy and the lifecycle occurring between mining and reclamation. To me, this book speaks to the true essence of this program by highlighting economic opportunities that also benefit communities in Minnesota.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
Learning about various businesses across the state, their histories, and their operational challenges and opportunities. These moments have highlighted some common experiences and challenges we all face. But by far, my favorite part has been getting to know the other participants; we have some exceptional leaders and overall great people in our group.  

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota?
There are a lot of cool things that have been made in Minnesota, I’d have to agree with the voters that it is Scotch Tape due to its versatile use.
 

Profiled on February 7

Tell us why you love your company!  
At Grey, our team is truly that: a team. We all complement each other so well, which is why I believe we are so successful in an industry where competition often supersedes collaboration. And because of that, we love to have fun! Celebrating wins or simply celebrating each other is key to our culture.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I was born in the Philippines and have lived in three different continents (Asia, Europe and North America).

Who or what are you inspired by?
As sappy as it might sound, I'm inspired by my two children. I see so much of myself in my 17-year-old daughter and so much of my wife in my 19-year-old son. They've taken what we believe are the best traits that we've passed on to them and are running with them, literally! Watching them grow and come into their own inspires me to work even harder to be a motivating example for them.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
If I could give my 22-year-old self some advice, it would be that at 22, it's better to take advice than to try and give it. Because at that age, I thought I knew some things, but over time I learned that I didn't know anything at all!

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Forgot About Dre by Dr. Dre featuring Eminem will always be my go-to karaoke song. Just ask my fellow Leadership Minnesota mates! It's a classic. Great beat by one of the best producers and business minds around. And it's a tough tongue twister, which is always a fun challenge!

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
Visiting the Colosseum in Rome.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
I've been deep into all of Scott Sigler's works lately, but my favorite is his Galactic Football League series of podcast novels. A marvelous mashup of sci-fi/crime/sports set 700 years in the future, it's action-packed fun!

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
The facility tours and behind the scenes insights into the participating businesses are wonderful, but I really relish the bonding time we have on the bus rides and during meals. That's when you really get to know your fellow cohorts and form lasting friendships.

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
3M masking tape and microwave popcorn would be obvious choices for obvious reasons, but I think the coolest thing made in Minnesota is the black box flight recorder, which was invented by a collision researcher in the University of Minnesota's Department of Engineering, who worked with General Mills (of all places!) to perfect the technology. You only hear about black boxes after devastating tragedies, but they are key to telling us what really happened on doomed flights.

Profiled on February 3

Tell us why you love your company!   
I’m proud of the fact that we’ve built a culture where our people feel like they matter. We’ve worked hard to ensure our people have a voice and we have a culture where the leaders do what they say.  

What’s something super interesting about yourself?  
I’m pursing becoming a certified fly casting instructor (fly fishing related for laypeople).

Who or what are you inspired by?   
People who do the right thing even when that’s the hard choice to make.  

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?  
Be curious, develop a passion for learning and treat everyone you meet with respect and kindness, regardless of their job title.    

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?  
Something short! I have a lot of skills but singing isn’t one of them!

What’s on the top of your bucket list?  
Keeping up with my kid on a mountain bike

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now? 
The Optimist: A Case for the Fly Fishing Life

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?  
My favorite parts so far are the people I’m getting to know from my cohort as well as the unique perspective and “behind the scenes” look I’m getting into Minnesota businesses. These are experiences and connections that wouldn’t be possible without this program.

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
Spam. I find the history of that fascinating.
 

Profiled on January 27

Tell us why you love your company!  
I love the ESOP culture at Border States and how it shapes everything we do. Being an employee-owned company gives us a shared sense of purpose and responsibility, whether we’re taking care of our customers, supporting our manufacturing partners, or looking out for each other as fellow employee-owners.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
Every year around Halloween, Count Chocula cereal makes its seasonal comeback, and I’m all in—at least for one family-sized box!

Who or what are you inspired by?
I'm inspired by people who set ambitious goals for themselves and work hard to achieve them. Watching others push their limits and make meaningful progress motivates me to keep challenging myself and keep growing.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
One piece of leadership advice I live by is, 'You have two ears and one mouth for a reason.' Listening twice as much as you speak is essential to understanding and supporting your team.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
“Skol Vikings” It gives hope to the Vikings, and we need it!

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
At the top of my bucket list is a trip to Ireland. I’m a sucker for a good pub, especially when I can enjoy it with friends.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
A guilty pleasure of mine is watching Hallmark holiday movies with my wife.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I really enjoyed visiting the Redhead Mountain Bike Park and seeing how the mine has been repurposed to serve the community, but I’m looking forward to the Mall of America tour.

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
Red Wing Boots, proudly made in Red Wing, Minnesota. 
 

Profiled on January 23

Tell us why you love your company!   
22 years ago, what I initially thought would be a job in between jobs at Thomson Reuters quickly changed once I realized the significance and impact of their work. First, as an attorney, I felt a deep connection to the legal industry and my purpose of helping people, aligned with the Thomson Reuters mission. Second, I recognized the impact of their products on customers, their clients, and society, supporting justice and commerce. And lastly, despite being a large company, the culture and the people made me feel valued and capable of making a difference. These aspects continue to fuel my passion and love for Thomson Reuters today.  

What’s something super interesting about yourself? 
I have a deep passion for sports, which has led me to some awesome experiences. In 2023, I represented Thomson Reuters by throwing the first pitch at a Minnesota Twins game.  

Who or what are you inspired by? 
I’m inspired by my family who instilled in me a passion for helping others and having an impact in the community. Growing up, I watched them make a difference through not-for-profit organizations, volunteering, and supporting local businesses.  Their example led me to my own path of compassion, open-mindedness, and advocating for others. These lessons continue to guide me every day. 

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be? 
Take calculated risks and remember that you own your career - only you can steer it where you want to go. 

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why? 
I love a good 80’s tune! One song that fires me up to take on anything or sing with friends and colleagues is “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” by Pat Benatar. If I were a professional baseball player, it would be my walk-up song. Although it might also tempt the opposing team’s pitcher to aim at me…but I’d welcome the challenge! 

What’s on the top of your bucket list? 
At the top of my bucket list is attending all the major sports championships. So far, I've been to only two of them, but I'm determined to check off the rest and hopefully see my favorite teams compete!  

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now? 
As a history major with a father who loved visiting landmarks, battlefields, and museums, I have always enjoyed historical or period books, both fiction and non-fiction. Whether it's "The Last of the Mohicans," "Pride and Prejudice," or "The Great Gatsby," I get swept away by the stories. For me, history is a collection of fascinating stories I can get lost in!  

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for? 
I’m super excited to connect with my cohort colleagues and learn about their unique experiences, stories, perspectives, skills and capabilities. Building these connections will create a stronger network and business community, ultimately making a stronger Minnesota!  

What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
As a transplant to Minnesota (originally from New York State), I am fascinated by the state’s incredible spirit of creativity and innovation that continues to have far-reaching impacts beyond its borders.  

One of the coolest things made here has to be the West National Reporter System. John B. West and his brother Horatio started a bookstore and publishing house in Minnesota in 1872.  They soon began publishing "The Syllabi," a weekly digest of court reports that was faster and more reliable than any other source at the time. This groundbreaking innovation led to the creation of the West National Reporter System, which became a leader in legal publishing and printing.  So, in my book (no pun intended), the West National Reporter System is hands down the coolest thing made in Minnesota!  
 

Profiled on January 21

Tell us why you love your company!  
American Crystal Sugar Company is owned and operated by the farmers who grow the sugar beets, creating a strong sense of community and shared purpose. Growing up in a small town in sugar beet country, I’ve seen firsthand how this cooperative model fosters close-knit relationships and mutual support among neighbors and colleagues. Everyone has a stake in the success of the company, leading to a collaborative and supportive work environment.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I spent five years working in the sugarcane industry in Australia, during which I uprooted my family to experience life in a different country. This period was incredibly formative for us, as we fully immersed ourselves in the local culture and embraced the unique experiences that came with living abroad.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
One piece of leadership advice I’d share is to always be true to yourself to lead by example. Demonstrating the values and work ethic you expect from your team can inspire and motivate them to follow suit. It’s about being the kind of leader who doesn’t just give directions but also shows the way through actions.

If I could give my 22-year-old self some advice, it would be to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. The experiences and challenges you face will shape you into a more resilient and knowledgeable person, ready to tackle whatever comes your way.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
If I had to pick, Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi.

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
The number one item on my bucket list is to hike the North Country Trail.  The trail spans approximately 4,800 miles from North Dakota to Vermont. It begins at Lake Sakakawea State Park in North Dakota and ends at the Appalachian Trail in Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont. This trail passes through eight states, including Minnesota.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
Two streaming series that I’m into are The Bear (Hulu) and Ted Lasso (Apple TV).

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
Reflecting on my Leadership Minnesota experience, my favorite part would be the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of leaders from various industries across the state.  The insights gained and the collaborative spirit fostered during this experience have been truly inspiring and invaluable.

The Minnesota Chamber just launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota?
The Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota is definitely pure and sweet American Crystal Sugar!
 

Profiled on January 17

Tell us why you love your company!
I love that Imagine Deliver is a woman—and BIPOC-owned consulting firm with a mission to redesign an American city from the ground up. They are committed to building inclusive communities by redesigning services and systems that benefit everyone. 

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
We love animals at our house. We have three dogs, two ferrets, a parakeet, and a few fish.

Who or what are you inspired by?
I'm inspired by the curiosity, courage, and resiliency of everyday people who are always wondering "what if" and "let's try" and, as a result, continue to keep driving our society forward in big and small ways. 

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
My advice to both my 22-year-old self and to others would be, "Always go in with eyes wide open." Not everything is going to be great all the time, but always know what you want out of the experience and where you want to go next. That's how you can keep pushing forward. 

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver.

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
Fishing in Alaska.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
3 Body Problem on Netflix

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
So far, what I am enjoying the most is learning both from the speakers and from my peers, the moments and decisions that got them into the business sector, and how they have overcome challenges and stayed resilient as the sector and society have changed. Leadership Minnesota has deepened my knowledge of not only how business intersects with all sectors but also how generous and bold our community is. 

The Minnesota Chamber just launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
The BIPOC-led and serving arts theaters and organizations that contribute to our local and state economy and ensure that diverse voices and stories are represented and heard.
 

Profiled on January 9

Tell us why you love your company!  
I think that Clow offers a unique and great opportunity for advancement! I started at Clow 26 years ago working on the shop floor running lasers. Was able to take advantage of opportunities that arose to move up to the level I am at now. I think with Clow being very family focused from the start they recognize the value of their employees and make them a priority for advancement.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I guess I don’t know if this is really just about me alone but me and my son went axe throwing a couple years ago when he was about 12 or 13. He liked it so much we went back home and converted an old shed into an axe throwing shed, complete with two lanes, a bar and fire pit area. We named it after the Brand that was my grandfathers back when he started his ranch. Rafter 77 Axe throwing and the barbwire bar.

Who or what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by my parents. They installed a hard work ethic in me from a young age and it has helped me through life in many aspects. Dad was a blue collar worker and mom was white collar and they both worked extremely hard and advanced in their careers to make a great life. It was interesting seeing the two different professions growing up and getting to understand how they are totally different career paths, but that neither is better than the other.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
Calm down, don’t overreact, try to look at issues from different perspectives to help make an educated choice or decision.  
Go out of your way to help other people succeed, By doing that you are guaranteed to succeed yourself.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Apparently it would be Summer of ’69 or Funky Cold Medina

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
I like to travel and have always wanted to experience Alaska, So that is towards the top of my list.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
I am reading the Goal right now, Have actually read it a couple times, but I like it because it pertains to my industry and I find it interesting. TV series would be Suits, Me and my wife decided to only watch it when we had time to watch TV together, that way we had something to watch that we both like. We started it over a year ago and are not done yet…… but getting close.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
My favorite event so far was the mining experience, I’ve always been interested in how that all works and it was great to have the opportunity to see it up close and in action. Favorite part in general is just getting to know everyone and having fun being involved in such a great opportunity.

The Minnesota Chamber just launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
I may be a little impartial but I think the coolest thing made in Minnesota this year was the trophy for the coolest thing made in Minnesota!
 

Profiled on January 6

Tell us why you love your company!  
I love that we foster an environment of curiosity that pushes us to continue to improve not only our end deliverables, but our process and our service. We look for team members that have that same sense of curiosity and drive as we grow, which has created a unique culture rooted in innovation.  

What’s something super interesting about yourself?  
I love competition! Sports, board games, cooking challenges - whatever, I am in!

Who or what are you inspired by?  
My daughters! Their drive, persistence and desire to make the world a better place in their own unique ways pushes me work harder at being the best version of myself for them.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?  
Just say yes! Don’t overthink the process or the demands for your time. Enjoy the opportunities as they come – they will bring you places you had probably never imagined you would be!

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?  
Crazy Train, Ozzy Osbourne. Reason #1 – it does not require you to sing well! Reason #2 – The intro is epic and most everyone can either air guitar or sing along with you.

What’s on the top of your bucket list?  
Travel around the globe.  

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?  
I don’t watch a lot of TV, but when I do, it is usually the MLS season pass on AppleTV.  

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?  
The opportunity to connection with professionals representing a wide variety of businesses within the State of Minnesota.  Learning more about different our diverse economy and how policy is impacting industries outside of my own has been eye-opening.

The Minnesota Chamber just launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota?
UNRL. Athleisure apparel has really taken off, and the UNRL brand has been a unique local addition to the athleisure market. Their collaborations with the Vikings, University of Minnesota, Timberwolves, Wild are big name collaborations. UNRL has also partnered with ETS - which provides performance training to high school and college athletes across the state. Personally, I love the quality, look and feel of the UNRL products. Of course, the majority of our WSB branded apparel is UNRL.  
 

Profiled on January 2

Tell us why you love your company!  
NewRange Copper Nickel has the potential to become a significant domestic source of clean energy minerals like copper, nickel, cobalt, and platinum-group metals (PGMs). These minerals are essential for the clean energy transition, and by developing a domestic supply chain, NewRange hopes to decrease reliance on foreign suppliers, improving national security and economic stability.

The company is also a great community partner, prioritizing environmental protection and sustainability, as well as the region's economic and social development.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I was born and raised in South Africa, and spent most of my career in Namibia prior to moving to the USA 8 years ago.

Who or what are you inspired by?
Growing up in South Africa helped foster in me a deep understanding of social inequality and the importance of community. By drawing on my South African roots, I hope to bring unique insights, passion, and determination to my social performance efforts, making a positive social impact.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
Stay humble. Stay grounded. Self-awareness is key.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Great Heart by Johnny Clegg

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
Galapagos Islands. I have a background in Environmental Science and I’d love to be able to see their unique biodiversity.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
I find myself returning to Tom Robbins' 'Still Life With Woodpecker' every year or so, eager to rediscover its surreal charm.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I value the opportunities to visit new locations, gain insights into various industries, and enhance my knowledge of Minnesota's economic landscape. However, the most enriching part of the program is undoubtedly the chance to interact with fellow attendees.

The Minnesota Chamber just launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
I’d have to agree with the voters - Scotch® Magic™ Tape

Profiled on December 13

Tell us why you love your company!  
U.S. Steel is such an iconic American company. First billion-dollar corporation, first with a board of directors, first with a code of ethical business conduct, and the first to use the phrase Safety First. USS played a huge role in the US winning two world wars and industrializing our nation. As far as our Iron Range operations go, we are a major employer in our region and provide a great living for so many families and have done this for generations. Our operations are much more complex and technical than most people think. There is always a new challenge to work on. Thankfully we have so many dedicated, hardworking, talented employees. 

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I have been on 11 Canadian moose hunting trips. On one of the hunts a moose walked 11 yards from me! It was quite a rush, and I managed to get it on my GoPro!

Who or what are you inspired by?
My parents. Both are such hard workers who strive for perfection in everything they do. My father has a bunch of sayings that he would tell me. The two that come to mind are “Be the task great or small, do it well or not at all.” The other is, “If you don’t have time to do it right the first time, when are you going to have time to do it over?” 

When I would bring home a report card with an A- on it my mother would ask “what could you have done to make that an A?”

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? Or if you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
I was told by a former Senior VP to follow through and follow up. If you tell someone that you’re going to do something, do it. If you tell someone you will get back to them, you better get back to them, even if it’s not the answer they were hoping for. It really helps build credibility. If you don’t close the loop with them, you’re basically telling them they aren’t that important to you.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
I’m going to have to go with Johnny Cash, Ring of Fire simply because the only time I sang karaoke was at session two of this program and that’s the song I picked!

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
Buy a cabin on Lake Vermilion.  (I checked that one off the list in August)

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
Mr. McMahon on Netflix. It brings me back to my childhood when I loved watching professional wrestling.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
I love seeing all the different business. If I wasn’t in this program, I would never get to see all these amazing companies, how their products are made, or hear their stories. If I must pick a favorite, then I say the time spent at Sun Country has been the most interesting to me. It was fascinating to get a behind-the-scenes look at an airline. I wish we could have had more time to dive deeper.

The Minnesota Chamber just launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? (Remember, it has to actually be made here)
Obviously, that’s a taconite pellet! Seriously, there is so much more that goes into making those little balls of concentrated iron than most people think.  When I travel around, I like to point to random things made of steel and tell people, “You know, that most likely started as a rock in northeastern Minnesota!” Mining is an important part of our economy and is critical to our national security. If we are serious about a sustainable, green economy then we must mine iron and other critical minerals here in the US. You can’t make a windmill, solar panel, or electric vehicle without mining.

Profiled on December 11

Tell us why you love your company!  
ALLETE employs a strong bench of leaders who foster collaboration, empower individual initiative, and provide resources necessary to succeed. These characteristics add up to providing an essential service to thousands of Minnesotans: reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy. Our company is a tight community that works hard, so I'm thankful to be working for ALLETE.

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I'm colorblind, left-handed, play drums in a soul band, play in a hockey league, play chess, and worked for Congress for eight years. I try to keep my activities diverse and challenging.

Who or what are you inspired by?
My two-year old son Ashwin has a wonderful demeanor and is always looking for the fun and funny things in his surroundings. I aim to do the same.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
The most important aspect towards building trusting relations with anyone is being a good listener. This takes patience and energy, but it will often result in building better and longer-lasting relationships. 

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
"What I Got" by Sublime is often my go-to, and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
Return to Japan on a long trip. I studied abroad there for six months in 2009 and I've always wanted to go back.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
I tend to listen to podcasts, so I find myself listening to Sam Harris quite often on Spotify and YouTube. I find his thought process and conclusions very compelling, so I'm always looking for more of his content.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far OR what are you most excited for?
Meeting and getting to know my fellow participants. I've found them to be interesting, focused, and exhibit strong leadership skills that I hope to carry through long after our Leadership Minnesota experience has concluded. I'm thankful to learn all about Minnesota's diverse economy alongside them. I've noticed our group tends to ask many, many questions, which I take as a strong trait for all leaders to have, curiosity!

The Minnesota Chamber launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? (Remember, it has to actually be made here)
I really enjoy Minnesota-produced wild rice, its health benefits, and its cultivation. 
 

Profiled on December 4

Tell us why you love your company!  
We have the most incredible team. They are brilliant, funny, support one another and inspire me daily. I also constantly learn new things and get to work with amazingly cool businesses across the country. 

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I am very passionate about donating blood and supporting pediatric cancer patients and their caregivers. I serve on the board for the Memorial Blood Centers in Duluth and also the Northern Lights Foundation, which supports children facing life threatening illness. Our business also has an annual giving initiative, Giant Giving, where we have adopted families, collected thousands of dollars in gifts to support local patients and held numerous blood drives. 

Who or what are you inspired by?
People who are unafraid of being professionally vulnerable and doing the hard work necessary to achieve success. 

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR  If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
Trust your gut and be a fantastic listener.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Sweet Caroline, because the whole room would be signing with me! 

What’s on the top of your bucket list?
The Dolomites and Greece. 

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
My current “fun book” is A Gentleman in Moscow.

What is your favorite part of your Leadership Minnesota experience so far?
Our group is the best - we ask amazing questions and are like-minded. Session two in the Grand Rapids area and Iron Range was incredibly cool. It’s impactful to witness the pride and hard work coming from these critical northern Minnesota industries. I think we all learned so much we didn’t know about our state and its natural resource offerings. 
 

Profiled on November 25

Tell us why you love your company!  
Palmer Bus Service is a great place to work for people who want to work! Our Core Values of Safety, Integrity, Dignity, Help, and Community are REAL and part of everything we do and guide every decision we make. We are dedicated to serving our communities by safely transporting students which gives all of us an important purpose to carry out each and every day- without us, kids don't get to their future!

What’s something super interesting about yourself?
I drove school bus my senior year in high school:-)

Who or what are you inspired by?
Abraham Lincoln. His humility, dedication to something greater than himself, leadership, gift of storytelling, and ability to truly understand all points of view when looking at difficult and contentious issues stands the test of time.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be?
Treat yourself and talk to yourself like you are someone you care about.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why?
Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now?
Call the Midwife
 

Profiled on November 21

As chair of Leadership Minnesota, you’ve completed this program as a participant and now going through it again as chair? What was something you learned that you can’t stop talking about? 
I didn’t realize how diverse the Taylor Corp offerings are and how global their reach is. 

What is your favorite part about this program and experience? 
My favorite part of the program is being surrounded by so many like-minded people who love to learn and connect with people.

Throughout your time in the program, you have had the opportunity to really better understand the importance of the work of the Minnesota Chamber. Why should companies be a member? 
Becoming a member means ensuring your company is a part of your local and state community, it means access to resources and information to help your business thrive now and in the future. A membership with the chamber also offers an opportunity to connect with great people and great organizations across our state.

Tell us why you love your company!  
Jasper is a team of “salt of the earth” kind of people…the kind of people who will get out of bed in the middle of the night to come and help you. We truly have a special group.

What’s something super interesting about yourself? 
I’ve played drums in a band at Glueks in downtown Minneapolis and have ridden shotgun in a Formula 1 race car around the track at 180mph at the Brickyard in Indy.

Who or what are you inspired by? 
My six-year-old daughter, Charlie. She reminds me the importance of having fun and not taking life to seriously specifically when she scolds me for balding or having grey hair.

What is one piece of leadership advice you’d be willing to share that you use? OR If you could give your 22 year old self some advice, what would it be? 
If you are addicted to helping others succeed and be the best version of themselves, then leadership could be for you. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, every experience is a learning opportunity.

If you had to pick a karaoke song to sing, what would it be and why? 
Elvira- The Oak Ridge Boys because it reminds me of my first time to Sugar Lake with my Leadership Minnesota cohort.

What’s on the top of your bucket list? 
Operating large equipment, excavators, bull dozers and the like.

What’s a good book or streaming TV series you are into now? 
Alchemy (book), Ted Lasso (TV series)

The Minnesota Chamber launched their inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” Award this year.  What do you think is the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota? 
SPAM is my favorite Minnesota item.