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I am available to Members and non-Members anytime, for meetings, referrals and ideas. Call, text or email for information, or click the Calendly link to schedule an appointment for me to stop by your office for a visit.
If you’re running a business or organization, our Members are available to offer solutions to whatever issue you’re dealing with today. All of their websites, emails and phone numbers are live in their listings below. Contact them with confidence and tell them you saw them on the100,inc.!
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founding Member #1
panelist 6.14.17: Traction Intro and Overview | panelist 7.20.2016: Tech Discussion
Wes is the go-to guy for our clients and employees, and for good reason. He’s the guy who gets things done. It’s no wonder; Wes is a self-made man who prides himself on being a lifelong learner. In his book there are no mysteries, only questions to be researched, answered and applied to solving your IT problems and helping you accelerate your business.
Prior to becoming one of the four founders of True|IT, Wes co-founded and operated another IT company for 11 years. He did it all in that company, from accounting and human resources to sales, tech support to software development. Before that he worked for an Internet services company, an online aviation parts broker and a local computer service company. All told, Wes brings more than 30 years of experience in IT service, support, programming, software development and IT operations to overseeing our Managed IT and Software Development departments. He also holds numerous IT and software development certifications.
Wes and his wife, Jennifer, have four children. https://www.trueit.com/portfolio-item/3-wes-henry/
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founding Member #2
the100,inc. Advisory Board | panelist 5.18.16 Marketing Discussion
Barry was born and raised in Dilworth, MN. Graduated from Dilworth High School and attended MSU, now MSUM and studied Pre-engineering and Computer Science. Worked at WDAY TV while in school and took a full time position with them in 1981. Spent 7 years as an operations engineer before moving into Television ad sales in 1986. In 1989 he accepted a sales position with Artco Promotional Products and had no idea it would lead to a lifetime career in the Promotional Products Industry.
He has been involved over the years with many local organizations raising money for the Vision 2000 project, volunteering with Big Brother Big Sister, working on the Fargo Airsho Committee for over 20 years and chairing the Military Affairs Committee with the Fargo Chamber. Barry is also a Leadership Fargo Moorhead graduate going through the program in the mid 90’s. When he’s not working or volunteering, he’s spending time with his wife and 11 year old son who’s involved in both Hockey and Baseball which allows for little down time. They spend most summer weekends at the family lake cabin on Big McDonald lake near Vergas, MN.
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founding Member #3
the100,inc. Advisory Board | panelist 7.20.16 Technology Discussion | interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project
Josh’s development background is in full LAMP stack development with a heavy JavaScript influence. As they’ve grown Josh has turned in his code editor to lead the growth and business development charge at Codelation. He’s passionate about attracting and retaining talent to the Fargo, ND ecosystem by being an active member in the startup community.
“We build thoughtful identities and experiences to elevate and empower organizations.”
Codelation provides leading-edge technology solutions that help propel your organization into the future. Transform your organization with an experienced solution provider that has been serving the upper midwest since 2008. We partner with startups and small business to help them grow and succeed through the intelligent use of technology.
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founding Member #4
Don has worked with individuals and businesses for thirty years and he brings a diverse background and broad experience to his clients. Don began his career as a personal trust officer working with individuals and families on estate planning, trust and investment issues. He then worked on individual and business retirement plans handling ERISA issues and investment management. Don has a business background and has held a Series 7 securities license, as well as, real estate and insurance licenses. Over his career Don has helped individuals, families and businesses grow and protect their assets, handling simple to complex personal and business issues.
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founding Member #5
interview with Business Connection Project
ATM’s, credit card processing, gift cards and check guarantee placement. Providing wholesale pricing and consulting, business planning, maximizing income for merchants point of sale equipment and software. Focusing on reducing costs for processing, equipment and protecting liability as well as boosting income for businesses of all sizes.
With over 18 years experience in the industry I credit our success to on the spot top notch customer service driven by HONESTY and complete information. Our customers are our most trusted asset and it shows. You will know instantly this is a different approach to doing business. With over 1600 customers we feel our position is proven that we can show you a better way to make your business more money.
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founding Member #6
For more than 30 years, Liberty Business Systems, Inc. has been proud to serve customers in North Dakota. Ever since our founders, Ron Fuhrman and Paul Finke, opened our first location in Fargo in 1986, Liberty Business Systems, Inc. has focused on delivering excellent customer service and the best available products. Our knowledgeable, friendly staff can relieve your business of its day-to-day technology needs, freeing you to concentrate on what really matters to your success.
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founding Member #9
Doug Johnson, CIC, AFIS, is a crop insurance sales advisor with close to 20 years of selling experience. He has extensive knowledge of the agriculture industry, evidenced by his term on the John Deere Advisory Group whose members were describes as “experienced, committed and thought-leading John Deere crop insurance agents to provide guidance on market strategies.” Dough has even been acknowledged by FSA representative for his grasp of the industry, stating, “there are not many folks in crop insurance that have your “inside baseball” knowledge.
Doug lives in West Fargo with his wife and four children. He enjoys spending time with his family, singing, golfing, motorcycling and time at the lake.
TCI Insurance is a full-service, locally owned independent insurance agency that has been providing clients protection since 1985.
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founding Member #8
In the 1960’s, I remember going to the office with my Dad, Tom Hannaher. We would spend hours there on Saturday’s, he would catch up on things and I would wander the showroom and second floor warehouse getting into various stages of mischief, occasionally pushing the wrong button on a huge adding machine and watching it clank and chug nonstop until Dad came and shut it off. That office was in Downtown Moorhead until the great minds of the time decided that the property that was home to Hannaher’s, Inc. and Hannaher and O’neil Wholesale Groceries, prior to that, would be better suited as a parking lot. As Ridley’s/Hannaher’s (the name changed in 1964) Dad occupied that space for 15 years.
In Fall 2016, we moved into our new Fargo location at 3803 Main Avenue. Over the course of 18 years, we found ourselves in a facility that was beautiful but it wasn’t functional or efficient for the work we do. We wanted to demonstrate to our customers what we can do with a space and how we can impact the lives of everyone who works in a facility that utilizes our products and services. We truly believe that we can impact the lives of employees, creating healthy work environments and GREAT places to work. This location will provide us with the resources we need and the tools to support our customers all while living and working in a space that encompasses Power of Place theories. Stay connected with us through our social media channels and our newsletters for updates. It’s going to be fun! read the complete letter from Paul
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founding Member #10
Nelco First Aid was started in 1987 by our former owner Greg Nelson. We continued to grow under Greg until November 2007 when our Office Manager, Deb, bought the company.
Nelco First Aid is a Fargo, North Dakota based service company that sells and services first aid and safety products in industrial, agriculture and office settings. Our territory covers the eastern portion of North Dakota and the western portion of Minnesota. Cities included: Jamestown, Valley City, Wahpeton, Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo, Grand Forks, Grafton, Fergus Falls, Perham, Detroit Lakes, Crookston, and all points in between. We are well known throughout the Red River Valley for our outstanding customer service and reliability. We currently service over 500 customers throughout the region. Our customers range in size from small offices to some of the largest industrial manufacturers. We pride ourselves on prompt, courteous service. Nelco First Aid Inc. also manufactures and distributes Protek Lens Cleaner throughout the country.
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founding Member #12
What makes us different
At Enclave, we approach every project by first spending significant time understanding the beneficiaries of the finished project, including end users, the neighbors and the community. This important step allows the team to develop communities that serve the end user, while having a positive impact on its neighbors and the community. We recognize that financial and market analysis will drive what makes sense to build, who it will be built for, and what budget we have to work with. However, we believe a well-designed community does not have to come at the expense of budget, and budget doesn’t have to constrain our ability to create a well designed and built community. Our foremost talent is to complete thoughtful projects for defined target markets, on time and on budget. To date, 100% of our projects have been delivered on time and within budget.
By assembling the right partners (architects, engineers, lenders, investors) and working closely during the design phase, Enclave is able to design project budgets that work and successfully manage project specifications and schedules to deliver developments that achieve goals across every level.
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founding Member #14
With creativity as his guide, Guy started working in local bike and automotive shops customizing bikes and cars when he was a teenager. His passion for all things mechanical led him to NDSU where he earned his Mechanical Engineering degree. Over the course of his career he worked for numerous local manufacturers with an emphasis in material handling. He started Anvil Design and Manufacturing in 2003 in order to fulfill his entrepreneurial goals. Since that time Anvil has expanded into a full service engineering and manufacturing facility. Guy’s continual drive to learn and apply his knowledge creatively and his customer first attitude has allowed Anvil to grow every year since it started. The only thing more important to Guy than his work and customers is his family. Guy loves spending time with his wife and seven kids.
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founding Member #15
the100,inc. Advisory Board | panelist 9.21.16 Leasing Changes | Breakout Session presenter 1.24.18 Executive Expo
Key Personnel: Dave Groshong, Executive VP/CCO | Lucinda Goetz, Business Development Officer
Todd Fisher is the president and CEO of Fisher Leasing. He has over 20 years of experience in the leasing industry. He belongs to several leasing industry groups and has been active in various industry associations for many years. He worked for a regional CPA firm in tax and management advisory services and has experience in the commercial real estate industry. He is a former franchise partner in five Qdoba restaurants in North Dakota and Minnesota and Smashburger in Fargo. He has held board positions with area economic development organizations, national leasing industry association, and Hospice of the Red River Valley.
He attended North Dakota State University and Minnesota State University – Moorhead and graduated with a finance degree. Todd serves on the Executive Committee and the Advisory Board for the Fisher Companies. Todd and his wife Wendy reside in Fargo and have two grown children.
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founding Member #16
the100,inc. Advisory Board | Executive Events panelist 9.21.2016 Leasing Changes
“I believe that accounting is the international language of business. I am looking for the numbers to tell me a story and then I like to share my findings with my team and clients. The fun part is communicating that story in a way that is meaningful for them…in clear, simple language.”
Speaking to Mark is a unique experience. A quick mind and diverse interests have helped him sustain an amazing collection of relationships across the globe. More importantly, his ability to translate the details of his clients’ interests and goals always results in a solution tailored to them. Mark had the opportunity to work with some of the best-known CPAs in the upper Midwest before founding Giddings & Associates. He is also a co-founder of Mid America Consultants International and served as the company treasurer for several years.
Mark has developed a niche in sophisticated tax and business consulting. He is best known for:
- Supporting multiple complex business deals and tax situations;
- Focusing on the personal and business needs of farmers and multi-generational enterprises;
- Providing keen insight for individuals with multi-state or expat tax matters — including filmmakers, entrepreneurs and entertainers;
- Serving clients on all seven continents.
When Mark responds to a question or need, you can be sure that he’s rolled it over in his mind and viewed every angle. Ultimately, you will make the decision, but it will be well informed from Mark’s extensive knowledge and research. His goal — and the culture of Giddings — is to serve clients for a lifetime. And then earn the trust of their children and grandchildren.
A summa cum laude graduate of Moorhead State University (now Minnesota State University – Moorhead), Mark is a member of the Red River Valley Estate Planning Council, the American Institute of Certified Pubic Accountants, the North Dakota Society of Certified Public Accountants, the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants and the National Society of Accountants for Cooperatives.
He is active in the Cormorant Lions Club and is serving on the Chamber Council for Cormorant Lutheran Church. Mark also led a team to teach a course in Russia entitled “Farm Financial Management in the Free Market Society.” He has been a guest speaker at many conferences and conventions for professional groups such as the North Dakota Bar Association, the North Dakota Society of Public Accountants, the Red River Estate Planning Council, the Independent Association of Jackson Hewitt Franchisees, the National Exchange Club and the National Society of Accountants for Cooperatives. While his passion for Doobie Brothers music and hot air balloons is epic, Mark’s friends, family and clients love him anyway. Mark is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Minnesota and North Dakota and has received the designation of Chartered Global Management Accountant from the AICPA. Mark and Diane have made their home at Middle Cormorant Lake in Becker County, Minnesota.
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founding Member #19
No surprise but healthcare in America is broken. Most expensive system in the world and we rank very low in health.
We are not accountable for or own expenditures in health services nor for or own health. Where else to you buy something and not know how much it costs until after (surgery…)?
I help employer groups get better value out of their health plan and improve the health of their employees!
- Business Economics, NDSU
- US Army Reserve
- Business Champion Legislator, Greater North Dakota Chamber, 2011; Friend of Farm Bureau, 2011 & 2009; Distinguished Friend of ND Pharmacy Award, 2010; Keynote Speaker, ACLI, Boston, 2008; Keynote Speaker, Mealey’s Conference, NY City Harvard Club, 2007; Keynote Speaker, Life Settlements Conference, Orlando, 2007; Outstanding Legislator, NDAIFA, 2007; Testified, US Senate Banking Committee, Privacy Matters, 2002; Chair, District 46; Former Chair, Fargo Area Republican Party; ND and F-M Life Underwriter of the Year; 42 Year Member MDRT; Bethel Evangelical Free Church
- Married; (Sandy); 2 children
- ND House since 2001
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founding Member #20
We are the premier electronic systems integrator in the West Fargo-Fargo-Moorhead area. We design and implement audio/video and automation systems for your home or business including: home theater systems, multi-room audio/video, lighting, shading, networking, surveillance and high-end control systems. Our team of customer-focused professionals strive to recommend the best solutions and services to fit your home or business, all while working within your budget and vision.
As a Design-Build technology integrator we implement 5 Phases through the course of a project from concept to completion. Careful thought and attention is given during each step to ensure you receive a solution tailored to your needs and delivers the benefits you desire. We are committed to making the entire experience from start to finish as effective and efficient as possible.
We are responsible for all phases of the AV and integrated technology work including the needs assessment, system design, engineering, installation, commissioning, training and service. During the design-build process it is very important to ensure the needs analysis (also called the Discovery) has been performed otherwise the system design and project contract will be too vague.
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Our firm has more than 30 years of experience in serving the business community. First, with many years as partner in the regional CPA firm, and secondly with an exclusinve focus on being an advisor to the business community. We currently provide the business community with competent financial advisory and consulting services to enable management and ownership to pro-actively take advantage of opportunities and strengths present in their marketplace. In addition, we help them to successfully address the threats and weaknesses of their organization.
Our goal is to be recognized as a high quality provider of advisory and consulting services to high quality business and financial clients and their owners.
Specialties:Buying & Selling Businesses, Mergers & Acquisitions, Business Contract Review & Development, Litigation Support Services, Business Start-Up, Business Plan Development, Finance Assistance, Troubled-Debt Restructuring, Business Turn-Around Assistance, Corporate & Business Reorganization Assistance, Succession Planning, and Advisor to Ownership / Management and Business Controllership Services.
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interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project ( Precision Angels)
I am a husband, father, businessman, and attorney. My wife Ashley and I live just north of Fargo with our daughter, Hannah. I hold a civil engineering degree from NDSU, as well as Juris Doctor and Masters of Business Administration degrees from the University of North Dakota. During law school, I started the Precision family of real estate companies, which now do business in six different states. These companies have bought and sold over 300 single family homes and been involved in a variety of commercial real estate deals.
Currently, I continue to operate the investment arm of the companies, after selling his interest in the management companies. Currently, the investment arm is one of the three largest house flipping companies in Arizona, and his team includes individuals who starred on the Discovery Channel reality TV show “Property Wars”.
As an entrepreneur, I have been involved in various start up companies in many fields, including agriculture, real estate and technology. These ventures include a Florida auction bidding company, a law firm specializing in crop insurance litigation, and other technology inventions under development. In 2017, I was proud to be nominated for the Prison Industries Board by Governor Doug Burgum.
In 2014, I was first elected to the North Dakota State House of Representatives as the top vote-getter in the general election among District 45’s four House candidates. In the State House, I have served on the Appropriations, Finance and Tax, and Agriculture Committees. District 45 includes parts of North Dakota, neighborhoods like Reile’s Acres, North River, as well as the cities of Harwood, Argusville and Gardner.
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Nelson Window Co. is proud to be a family-owned company. That pride shows in the work we do every day. We’re known for friendly employees, quality products and services.
A little about our history
- Nelson Window Co. begins in in the mid 1950s as a glass and screen service company
- Norman Bertsch arrives at the firm in the early 1960s
- Norman purchases Nelson Window in 1968. His employees include himself, one part-time installer and one semi-retired gentleman
- Nelson Window Co. begins its relationship with the Mon-Ray and Hayfield companies in the early 70s.
- In 1971, Norman’s son, Nolen, joins Nelson Window Co. as an installer
- In the 1980s Nelson Window Co. starts selling and installing commercial storefronts
- In 1983 Norman builds the current building at 2921 Fiechtner Drive, Fargo
- Throughout the 1990s, the commercial side of the business grows, and Nelson Window Co. develops a relationship with Milgard Window
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Harlan Goerger is founder and president of H. Goerger & Associates, dba AskHG. As a facilitator, Harlan has worked with countless companies of all sizes and industries. In the business world, he has observed the ideas and concepts that work, and also those that are not as effective. His experience gives his business solutions the ideas and cautions that not only keep risk levels low, but boost growth levels as well. Harlan’s insight does not come from textbook insight, but real life, real business experience.
Harlan has authored three books on business and sales and has created countless training and development programs for business, including the CEO Solution groups, Performance Based Management Program and the New Paradigm Selling System.
It was the desire to have a positive impact in the business community that drove him to develop the CEO Solution groups. By positively impacting the leadership capability and capacity of business owners and CEO’s, the entire organization has been impacted for the better!
On a personal note, Harlan has three grown children which all run successful business enterprises and have graced him with seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Harlan loves tinkering with custom cars and motorcycles- basically anything that goes fast.
Harlan is certified in:
- DISC Profiles
- InnovatorMindset Profiles
- Persuasion Boot Camp by Dr. Kevin Hogan
- ND/MN Insurance License 17270294
- Former Dale Carnegie Instructor in seven programs
Operations in Fargo, ND; St. Cloud and Minneapolis, MN
the100,inc. Executive Events moderator 6.14.2017: Traction Intro and Overview
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After graduating from the Florida Academy of Massage in 1995, Patrick Emerson returned to the Fargo area and began his massage therapy career working out of chiropractic offices. After about 4 years he realized that his massage schooling had not prepared him to treat those who were suffering with pain. Using the Relaxation/Swedish model taught to him in school, any positive results achieved with clients were temporary at best. The seminars Emerson attended at the time taught the “rub where it hurts” model, which he found to be ineffective. After 7 years of practice, Emerson was frustrated and worse, bored.
While driving to Bismarck for the ND chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association Convention, he was trying to decide how to tell his pregnant wife, along with their four and two year old children, that he might return to college to pursue a degree as a healthcare professional. That year the presenter at the AMTA Convention was Paul St. John. Emerson had heard good things about St. John’s method of Neuromuscular therapy, or Therapeutic Massage. While listening to the presentation, Emerson was baffled as to why this method wasn’t being taught in every massage school in the country. This was the true massage therapy! When St. John demonstrated his therapy method, Emerson felt that he had seen a miracle and described the moment as the epiphany that gave him the realization he “did not have to go back to college and could stay a massage therapist!”. He now knew that Therapeutic Massage was what he was meant to do.
Since then, Emerson has attended all of the St. John’s seminars. He has been fortunate to have been taught by Paul St. John personally, as well as by his excellent instructors. Four years after his epiphany, Emerson became certified in the St. John Method of Neuromuscular Therapy. Recently, Emerson has reached the Advanced Trained level of Primal Reflex Release Technique (the treatment of muscles after a traumatic event). He continues to be passionate about therapeutic massage and inspires to learn and to better serve those who suffer from pain and find themselves in his office.
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AdShark Marketing is a Digital Marketing Agency with headquarters based in Fargo, North Dakota. It began with two young entrepreneurs who were passionate about Internet Marketing and wanted to build something awesome. It’s fitting that the two founders met as the result of a Google search. Rick Berg, the original founder of AdShark Marketing, looked to Google to research other local companies that were offering similar services. He found Fargo Web Strategy as one of the Google’s top results. Sean Maki was the proprietor behind Fargo Web Strategy, and Rick reached out for a meeting. The two realized their skills complimented each other well. They shared a vision of building a company that delivers revenue-driven results. Three days later, their two companies merged and a new AdShark Marketing was born.
After merging in August 2013, the AdSharks were fortunate enough to see some early success. They were able to deliver amazing results for their clients and started to grow. Now their team is larger and looking forward to adding more. The AdSharks strongly believe in two things: driving sales and leads for their clients and creating an awesome work environment. They believe that if they can do those two things well and hire the best people, then everything else will fall into place.
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Jorin grew up in Bismarck, North Dakota surrounded by a close knit group of family and friends. After graduating from NDSU, Jorin and his wife Lynn moved to the state of Washington to work for a small community bank. After the birth of their first daughter, they moved back to raise their family with the same North Dakota values they experienced. Over the last twenty plus years Jorin has helped his clients reduce the stress of managing their insurance needs by providing high levels of advice and service.
Superior Insurance is a full service, independently owned insurance agency based out of Fargo, ND. With over fifty years of combined experience and living in the areas we serve, Superior Insurance is capable of handling all of your insurance needs. As an independent insurance agency, we can shop your policy with many carriers to find the best blend of coverage and price.
No matter what your insurance needs are, Superior Insurance is there for you or your business.
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The Bank of Webster was chartered in 1902 with capital stock of $10,000. In 1966, a group of individuals from Devils Lake were enlisted to purchase the Bank of Webster. On January 16, 1968, the corporate name and headquarters of the Bank of Webster, Webster, North Dakota, changed to Western State Bank, Devils Lake, North Dakota. At that time, the bank had $600,000 total assets and 125 checking accounts.
The bank in West Fargo opened in February 1999 and is a community focused, full service banking operation. In 2007, another convenient location was opened nearby in the center of Fargo’s retail district. This bank features concierge-style banking which is new to the market and organization. Concierge stations further enhance the personable, customer service interaction of banking.
In 2000, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan was formed allowing the employees to invest in the company they make successful every day. The response was overwhelming with employees committing 84% of their retirement stock to purchase company stock. Today the Western State Bank Board of Directors consists of Ray Horne, Brian Houkom, Gary Lochow, Todd Heilman, Brad Jacobson, Brett Johnston, Steve Daley, Jim Cullumber, Laurie Bakke and Andy Strand.
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Commercial and Residential Snow Removal Professionals in Fargo Moorhead
We offer a variety of snow removal services for both residential and commercial locations including plowing, blowing, salting, sanding and snow hauling. Fargo Snow is proud to be an active member of SIMA, where we network with other Snow Industry Professionals from all over North America. Through SIMA we share ideas and continue our company education on the best methods and practices available today to perform snow and ice removal services efficiently and reliably for our customers.
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Founded in 1915 by Scottish immigrant Robert Gibb senior, Bob’s grandfather, today this company handles multi-million dollar commercial and industrial projects on a weekly basis.
Bob is a Fargo native, who graduated from Shanley High School and graduated from NDSU in 1968, majoring in business economics. Bob worked for Green Giant Co in Le Sueur MN for 4 years, before returning home to join the family business in 1972. Bob became CEO in 1987 and with his brother and the entire team, celebrated 100 years in business in 2015.
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Kristi Larkin – Fargo born and raised, Kristi attended NDSU where she received her degree in Apparel & Textiles with a minor in Business. She worked at Laurie’s during college from 1990-1994. After college she worked at Dayton’s as an assistant buyer, then moved over to Sonnie’s as an assistant manager. She took a break from retail and worked in outside sales, but later returned to to Laurie’s to take over as owner in 2010.
Laurie’s moved from 32nd Ave South to their new location on 45th Street in 2017.
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the100,inc. GOLD Sponsor
CUSTOM GRAPHICS, INC. is a full service printer and screen printing manufacturer providing custom decals, graphic applications, print solutions, overlays, and signage to manufactures, dealers, transportation companies, service fleets, and business owners. We provide service and installation of Indoor and Outdoor Signage, Neon, Magnetic Signs, Vehicle Decals, Wraps and Fleet Graphics that will make your company STAND OUT and GET NOTICED!
Zach grew up in Marshall, MN working for his dad who owned Paxton Signs, which was started by his grandfather after WWII. He grew up hand lettering (painting) vehicles of all kinds, and working alongside his dad doing all and any type of sign work, installation, and maintenance.
Zach began working for his cousin Paul at Custom Graphics in 1996 while completing a Small Business Administration degree at Moorhead State University. Over his 20 year tenure Zach has worked in every department at Custom Graphics, and worked with some very dedicated people to establish Custom Graphics as it is today. In 2000 the company doubled, and again by 2005. In 2006, opened Signs and Design, and ultimately purchased 2 cranes and a service truck. 2009 was tough and caused them to consolidate some and combine the decal manufacturing with the signs. 2011-2014 proved to be very profitable and grew all 3 portions of the business – Decal Manufacturing, Signs, and Digital Print. They have accomplished some lean manufacturing techniques, and certified for ISO 9001:2008 in January 2014.
Zach enjoys his family time with his wife, and 4 children.
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the100,inc. GOLD Sponsor
founding Member #7
Payroll Express Inc. started active marketing in 1995 and has grown into the “Perfect Sized” Professional Employer Organization (PEO) As a family-owned business, we understand the trials and pains of managing employees. We strive to aid our clients in the same manner as those companies and individuals that helped us learn and grow.
We are sometimes asked when we attend PEO industry conventions and meetings, “When are you going to grow into a larger PEO?” Some of our fellow PEO’s have thousands of employees and hundreds of clients. We like to respond by saying, “We like the size that we are, we like to be able to personally contact each and every client and we really make an effort to make sure that our client’s employees are truly Our employees and not just another number in the file system.”
We did, in fact, outgrow our old office and in 2005 we purchased the old Burger-Doodle restaurant building on Sheyenne Street in West Fargo. With the help of many of our clients in the building construction trades we totally renovated and expanded it. We opened our new office in May of 2006. As a tribute to our company theme and the American spirit, we patterned our building after the original Pony Express building in St. Joseph, Mo. If you are in the area please take a minute to stop in for a cup of coffee and a tour.
Payroll Express was the first and is still the only Professional Employer Organization (PEO) headquartered in North Dakota. They are a family owned business that partners with small and mid-size companies to help with human resources, benefits and payroll.
Darcy was recently elected President of the Professional Administrative Co-Employers (PACE). PACE is a national network of HR outsourcing executives, owners and associate organizations dedicated to equipping members with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing regulatory environment. Darcy served as Vice President of PACE for the past two years and was on the Board of Directors prior to that.
Todd is active in the legal and legislative issues that involve the PEO industry. He makes numerous trips to Bismarck during the legislative session allowing our Clients the opportunity for direct input on issues relating to employment. Not only is Todd our government expert, he is also our authority on marketing and purchasing as well as building/grounds and IT maintenance. Public relations and delivering payroll packets are the favorite parts of his job – he loves to visit with our clients and employees! The personal touch of delivering payroll allows him to attend to their needs on a regular basis.
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Gateway Building Systems has gained a hard earned reputation as a Design-Build General Contractor that holds experience, quality and reliability above all other considerations. When you select Gateway, you’re getting more than a contractor. You are getting a full-service Design-Building General Contractor that will create the building solution that meets your needs. By combining creative design capabilities with quality products in masonry, concrete, wood or Butler steel buildings, we create a building that works for you. Since 1961, we have been dedicated to providing uncompromised service to our clients and professional growth and fulfillment for our employees. We listen to our clients, share their values and respond to their needs. In short, we take great pride in helping our clients see their dream become a reality.
Our commitment to building solid, lasting relationships is evident in our continued success. We strive to develop relationships that are based on respect, trust and honesty. This is what we firmly believe sets us apart from other companies and what has provided us with a list of distinguished past customers today.
Our design-build construction experience has served clients in the commercial, manufacturing and industrial markets extensively. And our in-house capabilities and design-build approach insures that your budget and schedule will be realized.
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Sarah and Vince Wuebker have been serving North Dakota since 1989. They proudly feature the #1 selling hot tub brand in the market, HotSpring Spas. Sarah, Vince and the team at HotSpring Spas & Pool Tables 2 have dedicated themselves to “making every day better” by offering the best products in wellness and leisure. They have recently expanded their brand from the original West Fargo location to Bismarck, Minot and Grand Forks, making them the largest hot tub dealer in North Dakota, with nearly 50 employees and 5 locations. Along with being named territory dealer of the year 4 of the past 12 years, Vince and Sarah were chosen from among more than700 HotSpring dealers worldwide to receive the prestigious and coveted “Locksin Thompson” award, named for an early pioneer dealer in the hot tub industry. They have proven to be a reputable and dependable source for the best wellness products around.
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Scott Thuen, an award winning visual artist, specializes in creative commercial advertising photography and design for clients across diverse industries. A North Dakota native, Scott is well versed in both location and studio photography. His passion to produce compelling imagery comes through on large or small productions, as well as when he is capturing the landscapes of North Dakota.
Thuen Design was started in 2004 and became Thuen Studios in 2012. It continues to produce award winning work year after year for creative firms and clients in the region. Thuen Studios works with clients to produce photographs, videography and designs primarily for use in the commercial advertising and promotional areas.
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the100, inc. GOLD Sponsor
interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project | facilitator at The ABCs of ESOPs luncheon 2.15.17 Presenter at Executive Expo 2018: Succession Planning
His story starts with his parents founding Preference Employment Solutions over 30 years ago. David has worked at Preference 3 years part time and 22 years full time. His responsibilities as President & CEO began in 2013. Within this time frame David and his parents endured a 6-year leadership succession period.
Preference has undergone a tremendous positive transformation the past 5 years. David credits their organization’s vibrancy, innovation and success to his Employee-Owners. Preference is the first 100% Employee-Owned Recruiting and Staffing Business in the United States and is local to the Fargo-Moorhead region.
David holds a degree in Accounting from MSUM and is the founder of a timberland company. He is extremely happily married to his wife Misty who he met almost 20 years ago. David and Misty have two children, Taylor and Christian.
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Magnum Electric began operations March 25, 1989 in Moorhead, Minnesota with Dick Beaton and Tom Heng at the helm. Both owners raised the bar in the industry, and wanted customers and vendors to know that “We do quality work with quality materials”. For over 20 years, they have successfully established and expanded business operations with the philosophy that “Quality doesn’t cost, it pays”, knowing that customers have higher expectations when it comes to quality and service.
Magnum Electric’s commitment to providing quality workmanship and service has built a solid reputation that continues today, as the company’s new leadership and ownership is smoothly being transferred to Clayton Schenck, Mike Graham and Scott Fougner. The vision continues with outstanding leadership and unparalleled dedication to service, quality products and cost controls that best serves our valued customers. We take pride in the fact that we are able to meet project deadlines and take care of our customers in a timely, friendly and professional manner.
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Panelist: April, 2016 CEO’s Roundtable | May, 2017 Board Development | Executive Expo 2018 Keynote Speaker
Jim is currently President and Managing Broker of Fargo-based GOLDMARK Commercial Real Estate. He joined GOLDMARK Commercial in 1996 after spending nearly five years with the Fargo Chamber of Commerce where he served as Manager of Public Affairs and Business Development. At GOLDMARK Commercial he was promoted to Sales Manager in 2002, Managing Broker in 2005 after leading the merger with Schlossman Commercial and President in 2016. In addition to running day to day operations of GOLDMARK Commercial Jim specializes in consulting, sales and leasing of office and industrial properties and takes particular interest in downtown city center projects. Jim is also an active “Angel Investor” and real estate developer with interests in a variety of emerging companies and commercial property holdings.
Jim is a Fargo native, graduate of North Dakota State University and serves on several advisory boards including the NDSU Research & Technology Park, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, City of Fargo Tax Exempt Review Committee and the UND-based Dakota Venture Group. He is active in many community groups and activities and splits his time between homes in Fargo and Detroit Lakes.
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Building Contractor
Attended NDSU | West Fargo School Board, 2008-12; School Board President, 2011-12
Married (Julie); 2 children | ND House since 2013
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Rarely do you need a plumber but when you do, call Best Plumbing. We are available for 24-hour emergency service, whatever your emergency. Put our number in your speed dial and call us. We will be there when you need us. You can count on us. Whether it’s a basement gush or a leaky flush, Best Plumbing can take care of all your plumbing needs.
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Custom Truck and Auto Shine Inc is a home-grown, local Fargo business that’s become a local powerhouse in auto services with more than 20 years under our belts.
Auto Detailing. Mobile Wash. Semi Truck Detailing. Body Shop. Rhino Linings. + much more.
At Custom Truck & Auto Shine Inc. Our customer’s satisfaction is the most important factor to us, whether it be detailing, body work, polishing, painting, letter removal, sandblasting or any other service. Contact us today for more information about any of our work!
In the fall of 2017, Jason opened Custom Express Car Wash @ 4682 32nd Ave South, Fargo.
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Dan offers H2M clients over 15 years of in-depth advertising and marketing experience. As H2M’s Chief Operating Officer, Dan works with all team members and clients to ensure budgets align with objectives and expectations. In addition, Dan leads the charge for H2M’s new business strategies.
Dan started out in the marketing world as a graphic designer. He soon joined the ranks of the GL Ness ad agency in Fargo before moving on to help grow a local start-up interactive marketing agency, also based in Fargo. With a broad, ever-growing background in design, print, marketing and interactive advertising, Dan has established himself as a true marketing authority. He offers H2M clients a full-spectrum consulting experience.
Dan lives in south Moorhead with his wife, Julie, and their gaggle of children: Jayci, Zoe and Raymond.
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At Radiant, we don’t build homes for everyone. We expertly design and build your home. We don’t have a set of stock floor plans to choose from, and we don’t reuse plans from our past. We take your style, your ideas, and your dreams, and mold them on paper, not missing the fine details that matter most, until your future home is truly unique to you. Watching your home lift off the paper and built on your favorite setting is a priceless experience. We work tirelessly to make the experience second to none. Whether you’re looking to build a legacy at the lake, or in the city, we look forward to being a part of that journey. Your home will be uniquely yours, designed by an architect, and built with integrity and craftsmanship that will last a lifetime.
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the100,inc. Advisory Board | interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project (UPS Stores)
Stop by and visit The UPS Store in WEST FARGO or 13th Ave South in FARGO today. You’ll meet one of our friendly customer service associates when you do. We are locally owned and operated and want to make sure you receive the world-class customer service that The UPS Store is known for.
Whether you are another small business like us that needs help, or simply someone that needs printing services, customized packaging and shipping solutions, a mailbox with package receiving, or even shipping large freight items like cars or antiques, our staff can help.
Debby has been helping customers since our opening on February 14, 2008. Along with running The UPS Store, she is an active mother with four children, a member of Mountain Climbers BNI and a local business networking groups
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the100,inc. GOLD Sponsor
the100,inc. Advisory Board | interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project
Altel Alternative Telecom Inc. was started in Moorhead MN, in 2000. At that time the owner, Cindy Cole, had a simple philosophy: “The installation of properly designed, reliable, and cost effective telephone systems combined with quality services results in satisfied customers”. Our Altel staff still practices that same philosophy to this day. We believe our customer service team & product line up is second to none in the region.
Altel focuses on all aspects of business, small, medium, and large. We have been providing telephone systems over the years to a wide variety of businesses. Altel has become the vendor of choice for numerous cities, school districts, hospitals, and hotels. dentists, & government agency’s, Atel’s reputation for excellence is based on its history of performance and the ability to provide simple solutions for complex communication needs. Altel provides over 90 years of technical experience combined. We are an Iwatsu. Avaya & Asterisk dealer because we believe that they fit our customers needs best, with reliability & the latest tecnology communication applications available. Although Iwatsu, Avaya & Asterisk, Switchvox are the flagship product lines, we also service many other product lines as well. We can service 99% of all business systems whether you purchased it from us or not. We service, Asterisk , AT&T, Lucent Partner, Fujitsu, Norstar, Meridian Mitel, Macrotel, Nortel, Iwatsu, Avaya, Toshiba, Inter-Tel, Vodavi, Comdial, 3-Com Shortel, & more.
Altel’s success has been based largely on the expertise of its sales, service, and technical staff. Our sales staff is trained to understand that every business is unique and has its own communications requirements. We listen to what our customers needs are, and then provide the solution we feel will best work for them. If you have heard your current system is obsolete & can no longer get parts, in most cases, it may not be true. Call us today & get the straight answer to your communication questions.
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Key Personnel: Dave Ekman, Partner
Full Service Corporate Travel Management: Travel Travel specializes in providing a cost-effective corporate travel management program customized to fit each of our accounts’ particular needs. In business for over 20 years, Travel Travel has experience handling accounts in various industries. Each account is assigned a team of travel experts to help with a full custom implementation (travel policy, reporting, duty of care, etc.), including a primary agent who knows, and is dedicated to your account. Travel Travel is unique in that we are able to provide the attention and care expected from a locally owned small business, while simultaneously providing the cutting edge technology and resources of a global organization. Call or email Travel Travel today to see how we can save you time, money, and peace of mind!
Specialty Travel: Our travel agents specialize in everything from destination weddings, honeymoons or romantic getaways, active and adventure travel, group travel, historical and cultural excursions, family vacations, Disney vacations, cruise and relaxing beach vacations– even business travel. Many of our agents have completed extensive training to earn the title of specialist in specific destinations, such as New Zealand or Germany. Our agents have also earned certifications, such as an Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC) or as specialists with individual cruise lines (such as Royal Caribbean or Holland America Line) tour companies, hotels and more. Whatever type of travel you’re seeking– leisure or business, our agents have the education, first-hand travel experience and travel industry relationships to help make your dream vacation a reality.
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Jon Lowry, owner of Lowry Engineering is a civil engineer with over 7 years of experience specializing in transportation engineering and private development. Lowry’s background and experience provides him with a strong foundation to successfully take on and complete residential and commercial subdivisions, municipal utility improvements, roadway improvements, and transportation projects. His responsibilities include subdivision site planning, building site planning, street and utility design, storm water management design, report preparation, project management, bid administration, and construction inspection. While not in the office, Jon has three children, a five year old girl, two boys, three and three months, with his wife of 10 years. The Lowry’s enjoy their family time together by playing games, and spending lots of time in the lakes area, being they are located so close in Hawley, MN.
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Executive Events panelist 4.13.2016: CEOs Roundtable | Executive Events panelist 6.14.2017: Traction Intro and Overview
Brady graduated from Lidgerwood Public School just 13 years ago. That fall, he enrolled at NDSU, attended one full semester, then dropped out to be an entrepreneur in 2005. Less than two years later, he formed BNG Holdings, Inc. in January 2007.
In 2015, he was a finalist for the Chamber Choice Entrepreneur of the Year award. He was chosen one of Prairie Business magazine’s 40 under 40 and BNG Holdings Co was ranked the #2 in ND and #1769 in the nation on the “Fastest Growing Companies in America” list by Inc. Magazine! Brady has been a keynote speaker at several events around the country and is regarded a foremost expert on how to efficiently get businesses paid.
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ANY LAB TEST NOW makes it easy for consumers and businesses alike to manage their health by providing direct access to clinical lab tests, paternity and other DNA family relationship tests, drug and alcohol and other toxicology testing services. With health care reform, more people are carrying high-deductible insurance, combined with HSA accounts, such as the Silver and Bronze Level plans. Family health care is a big concern, especially when it comes to health care costs. ANY LAB TEST NOW’s affordable, upfront prices fit into a person’s healthcare budget, providing a solution that continues to support overall health and wellness. ANY LAB TEST NOW partners with many major, high-quality laboratories throughout the U.S. to provide affordable and comprehensive lab testing services directly.
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Executive Events panelist 4.13.2016: CEOs Roundtable | Executive Events panelist 6.14.2017: Traction Intro and Overview
I’m Kent Satrang, your CEO at Petro Serve USA. Petro Serve USA is a diversified cooperative, founded in Moorhead, Minnesota in 1934.
We are a locally owned, diverse energy cooperative owned by its members. Petro Serve USA is the region’s finest energy supplier specializing in 100% American Made Fuels. We are Fargo-Moorhead’s largest supplier of home heating, commercial and agricultural fuel, propane and lubricating oil, operating 21 Locations across Minnesota and North Dakota. Our passion for store growth is rooted in the belief that America needs to lessen its dependence on foreign oil. This explains our name, Petro Serve USA, and our registered tagline “Helping America Fuel Better.” It is our conviction that our neighbors and farm customer/owners, right here in our own backyard, can and must produce renewable fuels like ethanol and soy diesel to stop the importation of Middle East oil. America imports almost $1 billion in oil each and every day, much of it from countries that oppose freedom and our American way of life. At Petro Serve USA, we’ve worked hard to develop new high tech blender pump infrastructure and, innovate national and local legislation.
Petro Serve USA has more bio-blender pumps than any company in the world. Our leadership in the area of renewable fuels has resulted in mid-grade ethanol and soy diesel blends being introduced into many cities across our region. Our passion is to partner rural corn fields with Western North Dakota’s Bakken oil fields. This partnership will bolster our region’s local economies and bring savings to the driving public by providing a renewable fueling choice at the gas pump. Having a choice at the blender pump puts change in everyone’s pockets.
Explore our site and discover how you too can benefit by becoming a member owner. Please contact me by email or by phone at 701-282-3201 if you have questions or if there is a way we can better serve you. When you need fuel at work, on the farm, at home or in your car, choose to buy from the company you own. Choose Petro Serve USA and “Help America Fuel Better”.
Receiving a Bachelor’s degree in business mgmt from UND and an Associates degree in business mgmt from NDSU. Kent has been in the petroleum business most of his life. He spent 3 years as the CEO of Farmers Union in Ellendale, then 12 years as the CEO of the Cenex in Drayton, then the past 18 years as the CEO of Petro Serve USA.
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the100,inc Events Sponsor
With exceptional taste, impeccable service and historic elegance, Avalon Events Center is the ideal setting for your wedding reception, corporate meeting, or other special occasion in Fargo. The Avalon Events Center is home to 7 beautiful ballrooms, filled with modern amenities and state of the art audio video technology for your wedding reception or corporate event.
Corporate and Custom Events | When you’re looking for an event space that can help you market your products and services, cultivate important relationships, celebrate a success, communicate a message, or show off and brag a bit, Avalon Event Centers are the place to host your event. You will be pleasantly surprised by the versatility, value of food and beverage services, audio/visual capabilities and the many other amenities it offers to ensure that your event will have the positive response you desire.
Weddings | Let your imagination run wild! At Avalon Events Center, we’ve set ourselves apart from dated hotel ballrooms. Our spaces are perfect for floor to ceiling decorations, fabric canopies, color changing LED uplighting, and anything else your dreams may hold! We have industry connections to turn your wedding fantasies into reality.
If you’re not feeling creative, we have partners who specialize in wedding planning to help you create a special event of your own.
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The Dakota Monument Company was incorporated in the state of North Dakota on February 27, 1911 by O. C. Anderson, H. F. Nesne and O. Skognes. O. C. Anderson operated Dakota Monument Company until his death in 1938. At that time, his son, Frederick S. Anderson took over management of the company.
Frederick Anderson continued to operate the company until his death in May 1980. He was succeeded by his son, David F. Anderson. In May of 2013 Dustin Anderson the fifth generation joined the family business and does outside sales. David and his son Dustin continue the family tradition today.
Today Dakota Monument Company is the only monument company in the state of North Dakota that has been invited to be one of 50 members of the American Institute of Commemorative Art. The company also has been a part of the Monument Builders of North America for over 20 years and strictly follows its Code of Good Practice. The company is also active members in the Northwest Monument Builders and the Fargo Chamber of Commerce. Dakota Monument Company is an authorized agent for Royal Melrose Granite Company, Cold Spring Granite, Dakota Granite Company, Granit-Bronz and Matthew’s Bronze International.
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the100,inc Media Sponsor
Fargo INC! is a monthly business magazine published by Spotlight Media in Fargo, North Dakota. Each month, Fargo INC! illuminates what is out there in the Fargo-Moorhead business world—from culture to community to advice to events. It’s an essential source of information and ideas for local business professionals.
Fargo INC! reaches more than 100,000 people each month through FargoINC.com, our digital edition, the magazine and social media.
Spotlight Media LLC produces a staggering 4 magazines a month for the Fargo Moorhead community. Fargo Monthly features interesting people, places, and events in the FM area. Fargo INC! is Fargo’s business magazine that is filled with helpful business tips to interviews with local businesses. Bison Illustrated is an NDSU sanctioned publication that focuses on individual athletes, coaches, and other individual group members as they progress through their college career. Design & Living Magazine is about showcasing the Red River Valley’s interior design, architecture, and landscaping. It also profiles the people that make these things possible.
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interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project
Tracy has invaluable experience in the Fargo Moorhead area that helps those working with her get a true understanding of the market. Tracy has lived in Fargo for over 45 years. She regularly takes advantage of the symphony, the film festivals and all the cultural staples of the area. Her wealth of knowledge can not only give you an edge in understanding your investment, but knowing the lifestyle as well. Tracy has more than 25 years of successful sales experience in banking, advertising and marketing, and now 15 years in real estate that gives her a unique business savvy and allows her to be an excellent negotiator on your behalf.
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interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project | panelist at Feb 2017 Executive Breakfast: Defining and Tracking Your KPIs
Matt Lachowitzer was a one-man show when he opened his first shop in the back of Tom’s Shoe Repair in Moorhead in June 2009. Within eight months, he bought the building and turned it into a four-bay shop. A couple of years ago, Matt bought a former bar on 43 ½ Street in Fargo, made an incredible investment and now, along with 18 employees services between 1600 and 1800 vehicles per month! In 2015 Matt was named Entrepreneur of the year by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber. Matt credits 2 principles to their success… “I never put money in front of people and I try to hire the superstars,” he said. “Those are my two highest guiding principles. I’m only as good as the people I surround myself with.”
Matt’s interest in the automotive industry started at his family’s farm working on anything with an engine he could get his hands on. He is an ASE Certified Master Automotive Technician and ASE Certified Service Advisor with over 23 years of experience in the industry. He is also a GM and Ford Master Technician and is very passionate about the automotive industry and making it better. One of his main goals is being able to change people’s perception of the automotive industry and helping people learn that the FM area has great service centers.
Matt’s passion for the automotive industry is fueled by being able to solve problems, seeing happy customers and knowing that every day is different, which keeps it fun and challenging. He’s incredibly proud of the team he has brought together and is always striving to be better.
In his limited free time, he loves to spend it with his wife, Char, children, Kalin, Ryker and Krimsyn. They like to go fishing, snowmobiling, going to the cabin, four wheeling and attending concerts!
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http://www.weyer-for-hire.com/about-us/meet-the-owner I am Shawn Weyer, owner of Weyer-For-Hire of Fargo LLC. Prior to opening my business in Fargo, I mentored under my father for over 12 educational years of tackling all project types- everything from removing rubber from large tanks followed by spray applications, to custom painting interior and exteriors of multi-million dollar homes.
While painting full time, I continued my education and graduated from North Dakota State University with a business degree, as well as completing the pre-requisites for chiropractic school. After being accepted to Northwestern school of Chiropractic in Minneapolis/St.Paul, I made the decision to continue the painting business I had started in Fargo.
Continuing this business was the right decision. With steady growth and a brand based on precision, detail, experience, integrity and skill, Weyer-For-Hire of Fargo LLC takes pride in being the growing household name for your go-to full service painting business in the Fargo, ND and surrounding areas.
Contact us today for a free estimate on your next residential or commercial painting project!
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You can trust us to be consistent and trustworthy when you work with Dakota Storage Products. Since we are family owned, we take pride in our work. Expect us to give you our full attention all the way through the process of planning, ordering, and installing your pallet racking and storage equipment.
We supply pallet racking and storage equipment for many industries including manufacturing, farms, warehouses, food suppliers, and retail stores.
Dakota Storage Products’ story began in 1989 when Merlyn Nelson opened the business in Westgo Square in West Fargo to help meet the needs of companies and small businesses throughout the region.
Merlyn retired in 2008, and his daughter Kari took over the operations with the help of her family.
In over 25 years, Dakota Storage Products has grown and is now reaching out to companies all over the upper Midwest. http://dakotastorageproducts.com/about/
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Art has worked for over 25 years with entrepreneurs and startups through his economic development and real estate careers. As a economic developer he has worked all over the US working with recruiting businesses, retention and expansion of the businesses.
Art owns Sunbelt of North Dakota. He also owns a real estate brokerage firm called Capital Commercial Realty Group in Fargo, ND. As a business broker, he helps people buy and sell businesses.
Art is a member of International Business Brokers Association (IBBA), National Association of Realtors, Comex of Fargo, MLS of Fargo.
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Chris Kennelly was raised in Fargo, North Dakota. He was always interested in business and law as a young man. In sixth grade, he wrote a school paper about how he wanted to be a certified public accountant and a lawyer. Chris’ grandfather was the president of the Lincoln Mutual Insurance Company in Fargo at the time he retired. Chris’ father was the controller at the Case tractor factory in Fargo.
Chris earned a degree in Accountancy from the University of North Dakota. He graduated cum laude. He subsequently passed the examination for the Certified Public Accountant designation. Chris then attended the Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane, Washington. Chris earned a Certificate of Excellence for the highest grade in the study of contract law in his class.
Chris has focused his legal practice on business, real estate and estate planning. He has formed hundreds of entities on behalf of his clients. He assists clients in all aspects of their subsequent legal work including contract review and drafting and mergers and acquisitions. Chris also practices extensively in the areas of real estate and estate planning. Away from work, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife and children and attending their many activities.
In his outside business interests, Chris is the President of the separately owned Frontier Title Group consisting of FM Title, Fargo ND, Barnes County Abstract, Valley City, ND, and Innovative Title and Abstract, Wahpeton, ND. He is also the Chair of the Business and Corporations Section of the North Dakota State Bar.
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FM Title, Inc. is a locally owned company that provides closing and escrow services for a variety of real estate transactions in North Dakota and Minnesota, including residential, commercial, Ag land, and 1031 tax-free exchanges.
- American Land Title Association
- North Dakota Land Title Association
- North Dakota State Bar Association
- Minnesota State Bar Association
- BBB
Stutsman County Abstract Company
Barnes County Abstract
Innovative Abstract & Title Company, LLC
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The PREMIERE limo bus/party bus service for the Fargo/Moorhead and surrounding area
Serving an area including Grand Forks, Wahpeton, Fergus Falls, Detroit Lakes, Valley City, and beyond. Commercially insured for interstate travel. Fargo Party Ride is dedicated to enhancing the local limousine, wedding transportation, limo bus, and party bus scene. If you are looking for “more” out of a limo party bus service for any occasion, you found the right place! We now have 7 unique Limo Buses with premium features! Reservations are always on a first-come, first served basis, for all occasions, so contact us today! USDOT#1833216/MC#667792
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Looking to save money on the activities you already love to do? SaveCoin is a local daily deal, goods and coupon website that loves to save you money. We feature amazing deals and coupons on products and services in both Fargo-Moorhead, Grand Forks-East Grand Forks and Bismarck-Mandan, as well as the surrounding communities and lakes area, which include the latest activities, restaurants, fashion, and adventures. You can discover something new or revisit familiar places to treat yourself because you deserve to enjoy everything your community has to offer. You won’t find our deals anywhere else! We work with the merchants to create attractive deals that you can feel great about! Our coupons are available online and in coupon books around town, providing a quick and easy way to save money at local businesses. So start saving!
Monitor Marketing is a digital media company offering a dynamic advertising solution for business of all types. We have developed an effective method for reaching consumers through an ad-supported indoor digital advertising network in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Specify your target market and reduce advertising waste by delivering venue targeting or community-wide targeting.
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the100,inc. Advisory Board | Interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project (Transformation vs Change) | Executive Events moderator 9.13.2017: Extreme Leadership
Jodee Bock is a dynamic business communicator who encourages people to practice riskful thinking as opposed to merely wishful thinking. By encouraging them to think beyond their reasons, she leaves audiences with new insights, along with ideas for turning their knowledge into action.
Jodee is the founder of Bock’s Office Transformational Consulting and has over 15 years of experience in the areas of corporate communication, media relations, executive coaching, and training and development. She holds certifications in Life Purpose and Career Coaching, Job Relations Training (JRT), Bob Proctor’s Life Success Consulting®, and Accelerated Innovation Training and Coaching from SolutionPeople in Chicago.
The author of Own Your Story: The Invitation, The 100% Factor: Living Your Capacity and co-author of Inviting Dialogue: Inspiring Stories About the Power of the Master Mind and Don’t Miss Your Boat: Living Your Life With Purpose in the Real World, Jodee is also a highly sought after keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and business consultant. She has spoken at events all over the United States and designed and delivered customized workshops and seminars for dozens of clients.
Book Jodee to Speak at Your Next Event or contact her for a Free Consultation today.
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interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project
Dr. Mason Orth is a doctor of chiropractic who started his clinic in Fargo right out of school in the year 2000. He is especially interested people suffering with chronic pain and has led the way as a chiropractor in Fargo with new technologies to help treat chronic pain without drugs or surgery.
Dr. Orth grew up watching his dad suffer with chronic back and neck pain and, having suffered from it himself much of his own life, Dr. Orth has developed the unique ability to not only empathize with patients but to deeply understand what they are feeling and experiencing. This gives him the opportunity to connect on a much deeper level with patients and to better understand what the source of their chronic pain is and, how best to treat it.
“Unfortunately I inherited my dad’s back and have lived managing chronic pain most of my life. I know how chronic pain robs life from people and I am committed to providing cutting-edge treatment that not only reduces pain, but allows people to manage it and function for the rest of their life.”
Dr. Orth is known for his ability to diagnose more difficult cases especially related to spinal, shoulder, hip and knee conditions. He has grown his practice from a sole-practitioner to having multiple doctors in multiple clinics in both North Dakota and Minnesota. He has coached and trained doctors across the country and has over a half-dozen doctors right here in the area that have trained with him and are in practice today.
Over the years his clinics have won multiple awards for performance and achievement and he continues to pursue the most effective and up-to-date methods of treating patients without the use of drugs and surgery. He has helped to start local wellness programs in area businesses and his clinics perform multiple community events each month.
Dr. Orth grew up locally in Horace and still resides in the area with his three children. He graduated with a Pre-Medicine degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead with the intention of going to medical school. During college he also worked as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and it was his love of health, nutrition and human performance that eventually led him to study chiropractic at Northwestern.
When not working he will be spending time with his family, preferably outdoors and by water. If he isn’t hanging out with family he will likely be reading, studying or tuning-up his 1967 Dodge Coronet 500. Active in his church he has started a local men’s group and works to help people create a better life for themselves.
Dr. Orth has additional studies in spinal disc disorders, soft tissue dysfunction, spinal rehabilitation, extremity and sports injury, non-surgical spinal decompression, cold laser treatment, nutrition and wellness.
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Panelist at November 15, 2017 Executive Lunch; CYA Cover Your Assets
As a Human Resource Consultant and former health insurance executive Kim brings 30 years of sales, management and employee benefits experience to business owners and executives. Kim brings an insightful strategic and practical implementation talent to clients that are challenged, overwhelmed and even non-compliant in the complex world of Human Resource Management. His question-“How is your HR Model serving your business purpose and do you need to reinforce, rethink or reinvent your current approach”-has served clients around the region.
Kim is the founder and CEO of Human Resource Management Group, LLC, a human resource consulting and outsourcing firm here in Fargo.
HRMG provides all the functions usually associated with a traditional in-house human resource department. Businesses view human resources outsourcing and consulting as a strategic tool that relieves them of human resource responsibilities and enable them to focus on what they do best. In addition to allowing you to concentrate on your core business activities, outsourcing provides some key benefits,including: skilled professionals focused on human resources, reduce and manage operating costs and improving employee relations.
Feel confident that you are in compliance and adhering to the latest laws and regulations with HRMG’s assistance while keeping you up-to-date and freeing you from having to stay on top of these ever changing issues.
Specialties: Retirement Plans, Health and Welfare Benefits, Negotiating, Strategic Planning, Marketing Strategy, Sales, Managing Client Relationships, Safety Analysis
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Mark J. Lindquist is a nationally recognized motivational speaker, Lead Singer of the Mark J. Lindquist Big Band, world-touring entertainer and author of the books, “Passion! 8 Steps to Reignite Yours,” “Passion! 8 Steps to Find Yours” and “Service! My Way of Life.” Mark has performed live for over 1.5 million people in 22 countries and 44 states throughout his career. As an actor, he has appeared in ABC’s LOST, CBS’ Hawaii Five-O and the Universal Studios movie “Battleship.” He has performed for Grammy winning artists, Academy Award nominated actors, foreign dignitaries around the world as well as staffers at the White House. Mark has been featured on CNN.com, C-Span, The Washington Post, The Washington Times, The Dallas-Fort Worth Star Telegram, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Miami Herald, The Houston Chronicle and the Korea Today Newspaper (Seoul, South Korea).
Currently, Mark travels the country delivering keynote addresses for businesses, colleges, young professionals networks, conferences and school assemblies. He also performs the National Anthem for collegiate and professional sports teams and is the full-time National Anthem singer for the National Champion University of North Dakota Men’s Hockey program as well as a guest performer for the College World Series, WE Fest, The Minnesota Twins, The Minnesota Lynx, The Los Angeles Dodgers and The Minnesota Vikings.
Mark founded Mark J. Lindquist Enterprises, Inc. in order to bring smiles to the faces of people and ignite passion all over the world. Mark is a former AmeriCorps member, as well as a former Sergeant in the United States Air Force and an Afghanistan War Veteran who currently maintains residences and offices in Fargo, North Dakota and Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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Interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project (Financial Education)
This is my 24th year in the financial services industry. After spending five years in Phoenix, AZ and then another five years in Minneapolis, my family relocated to Fargo, North Dakota, where I founded RDA Financial Advisors in 2003. In 2009, RDA Financial Advisors was acquired and became known as TCI Financial Advisors, part of the TCI family of companies. In February of 2014, TCI Financial Advisors was acquired by Jamieson Capital Advisors, which became Contego Capital Advisors. (I agree, that’s a lot of changes!)
After feeling the exhaustion from company name changes, I decided to step back out on my own to launch a brand new financial advisory firm called Future Bright LLC. Future Bright taps into the strengths of Silicon Valley’s recent disruption of the traditional Wall Street model and brings the benefits of that industry innovation right here to the Red River Valley.
Using today’s latest technology, a less erosive pricing model, and a brokerage platform located in Silicon Valley and not on Wall Street, Future Bright advisors are proving that a small firm can achieve economies of scale as effectively as its larger competitors. But there’s a key difference. Instead of passing the cost savings up the food chain of our company, we pass the cost savings out to our clients.
We are changing the culture of our industry and leveling the playing field between clients and advisors. By simply shifting the bias away from the product sale and placing it squarely on the advice delivered throughout your financial life, Future Bright is committing to providing you a better way to achieve financial independence.
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You can contact RJ Energy Solutions LLC for building energy, saving and comfort solutions consulting services. After all, we have over 50 years of combined experience in the industry. We issue the Certified Building for Energy’s Section 45L and 179D federal tax credits.
I started out 34 year ago in US Air Force pursuing the Heating/Cooling/Refrigeration and Energy Savings industry. Twenty of the those years were in the corporate world in filling positions as a field technician to Area General Manager. It’s been 3.5 years ago I decided to break away and start my own business. Which was by far the best decision I’ve made with no regrets.
My secret for success, “find your passion and following it and never stop learning as you go”.
My wife’s name is Lisa, I’ve got a daughter Jessica who lives in Tampa Bay and my son Josh lives in Minot.
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“Giving back the gift of time”
As a Professional Concierge, I am dedicated to helping individuals and businesses fill the holes in their lives by helping with any goals or needs. With a wide range of work experience and having started five businesses of my own, I have experience to share. I had my Series 7, Series 66, Life & Health Insurance License and have my Real Estate Appraisal License.
In my most recent career, I work as a Real Estate Appraiser. I strive to help each one of my clients in a way that best meets his or her goals. In addition to helping my clients, I am committed to helping my community. I am currently involved with National Association of Professional Woman, Animal rescue groups and starting up with Therapy dogs.
Away from the office, I also enjoy camping, cooking, hiking, dancing and fishing and have fished with members of the Professional Walleye Trail. I live in Fargo and have 3 daughters: Liz is married and a Dr in Grand Forks, Brittany is a college graduate of Psychology from University of North Dakota, attending UofW River Falls getting her Masters in Student Counseling and a Para Professional and Macey is in the Pharmacy program at North Dakota State University
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Farm Business Software. Helping your farm thrive in an ever-volatile farm economy.
Harvest Profit was founded by Nick Horob. Nick was raised in Williston, ND where both sides of his family farmed. He graduated from the University of Minnesota and spent three years working for a successful private equity firm, ShoreView Industries. While at ShoreView, he learned best practices from successful business in many industries including being the youngest employee in firm history to sit on the Board of Managers of a portfolio company (Kibbi, LLC, the maker of Renegade toy haulers). After witnessing the commodity rally and steep decline from 2007-2009, he left ShoreView to become a farm finance consultant for Market Wise Ag Services.
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T.R.S. Industries was started in 1983 in the garage of Roger Cossette. Roger’s wife Claudia and son Richard joined shortly after and the company continued to grow. Richard’s wife Joy joined the company along with their sons Shane and Bob. Tarp manufacturing equipment was also purchased as we continued to grow.
In 1989 the company expanded to the Fargo Industrial Park and built a building large enough to drive a Semi Truck or trailer into the shop for repairs and installations. In 1992 and 1995 we added to the existing building to more than double our space. In 2005 T.R.S. Industries expanded to add the Fabrics Division, which was located directly behind the existing building and used for new tarp production and custom covers.
In 2009, T.R.S. Industries added a new building which housed production and the majority of the offices. The new location was 1230 40th St N, Fargo, ND. T.R.S. still had their location at 4119 14th Ave N, which was used to house installation of tarps and repair on large truck tarps.
In 2013, T.R.S. Industries added 36,000 square feet onto their new building, which increased manufacturing space to 69,000 square feet. This new addition was used to house all of the employees under one roof, in order to serve customers more efficiently. T.R.S. manufactures many of the parts for Roll Tarp Systems and stocks a wide selection of replacement tarps, lumber tarps, and steel tarps.
Rich has been with T.R.S. Industries since it was established in 1983. He is also a sales associate and marketing manager. You can find him at the trade shows that T.R.S. Industries attends.
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Broadcasting & Media Production Company in Fargo, North Dakota
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K & T Irrigation has been serving the irrigation needs of eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota since 1983. With locations in West Fargo and Carrington, we strive to offer the best and most timely service possible.
Our staff is highly trained and knowledgeable in all aspects of mechanized irrigation. From our fully stocked parts department to our factory trained service personnel, the customer is well taken care of after the sale. We specialize in design, development, and construction of the most challenging irrigation projects. We also understand the challenges faced in today’s economy and how valuable irrigation can be to a successful farming operation.
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Supplier of food quality soybeans and grains to food manufacturers globally.
http://sb-b.com/about-us Sinner Bros. & Bresnahan (SB&B) is a family-owned, large scale agribusiness producing, processing and supplying the world’s finest food grade products. Today our seven family partners manage our diverse operation from the North Dakota farm our grandfathers settled near Casselton, North Dakota nearly 105 years ago. Our 4700 acre (2000 ha) farm produces many types of crops, and we feed up to 5,000 cattle annually. While our agricultural production remains based in the rich, black profile of North Dakota’s Red River Valley, SB&B has been supplying food grade crops both domestically and internationally for over 20 years.
In 1997 we established our marketing entity, SB&B Foods, Inc. to manage the marketing and sale of an extensive line of Identity Preserved (IP), Non-GMO, and Organic products to customers worldwide. As a leader in the industry, we are committed to supplying consistent, safe and reliable food ingredients to markets around the world.
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Howe Seed Farm has been in operation since the 1900’s. Our seed operation and facilities since 1950 offering quality service and seed supplies. Four generations of Howe’s have been servicing not only South Dakota, Minnesota and North Dakota state-wide markets, but also international marketing of seed in wheat, barley, and soybean seeds. Our main marketing territory is within a 5 state region of the United States, Canada, and France.
Howe Seed prides itself in strict quality control and prompt seed service, working side by side with such private seed companies such as Proseed Inc. (Harvey, ND), Limagrain Cereal Seeds (Fort Collins, CO), Anhauser Busch (Fort Collins, CO), and American Crystal Sugar Co. (Moorhead, MN). Howe Seed Farm can provide up to date research information to our seed customers. The above mentioned have production research, seed trials, and nurseries providing mature research information on Howe Seed Farm land locations.
Howe Seed Farm’s main mission and goals are to provide mature research information and current data on new varietal seed genetics that benefit both present and future seed customers.
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Panelist at November 15, 2017 Executive Lunch; CYA Cover Your Assets
David concentrates his practice on immigration law, legal ethics and malpractice, and constitutional law. David has practiced law for 13 years. With a wide range of experience, David is a tremendous asset to the clients he serves throughout the United States, as well as those in other countries.
In the area of immigration, David advises clients on a wide range of issues related to employment and business based visas. As an immigrant and naturalized citizen, David knows family base immigration from a very personal perspective.
David is also an avid supporter of American business as the avenue to the future growth and success for the nation. Government does not create economic growth – business and individual Americans do. This firm belief in the ingenuity of American business has led David to focus more and more on the business community in his practice and to assist them in bringing the very best talent to be found worldwide into the American workforce. The goal is not to supplant the American worker, but to supplement our already great workforce and make the American business community an even more formidable force internationally.
David, his wife and son currently reside in West Fargo, ND, with their Golden Retrievers, Dexter and Darby.
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Barry is a successful entrepreneur with management experience in several diverse industries. He graduated Cum Laude from Concordia College, Moorhead, MN with a BA in Business Administration and Accounting with a minor in Spanish. Barry developed his financial skills as an auditor with KPMG in Minneapolis, MN and he passed the CPA exam the fall after graduation. Subsequently, Barry joined the North Dakota Department of Banking as a Bank Examiner. During his six years as an Examiner, he attended numerous training schools and gained an in-depth knowledge of banking and analyzing bank credits in numerous industries. Barry began following his entrepreneurial spirit early in his career when he developed a quick-serve Italian restaurant and purchased three Subway restaurants with a partner. These stores performed very well which allowed Barry to leave his position as a Bank Examiner in June 1998. Barry has been involved in many successful land transactions, restaurants, hotels, and other commercial real estate deals during the next decade before joining Sonmar Management in Fargo, ND. Sonmar is a full-service hotel development, construction and management company, where Barry holds the position of Vice President/CFO, which includes all development, operational, construction, and accounting duties. In addition to the above, Mr. Maring joined Archer Real Estate Services in 2016 as a commercial real estate agent.
Barry has been married 24 years to his wife Elizabeth and their family consists of their 19 year old son Jack and a 17 year old daughter, Brooke.
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Panelist 6.14.2017: Traction Intro and Overview
Christianson’s Business Furniture is a privately held corporation founded in 1993. We are a full service contract office furniture dealer, assisting designers, architects and end-users in North Dakota and Minnesota.
We are a “Preferred Dealer” of Haworth furniture; a status attained after significant commitments have been achieved regarding Haworth focus, showroom facilities, sales, design and installation training as well as customer service.
Vision Statement: “To be recognized as the leading office dealer in our community, providing superior quality, value and customer service.”
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Moderator at December 13, 2017 Executive Lunch; Execution: Transforming Your Organization into a Goal-Crushing Machine
Presenter and Vendor at Executive Expo 2018; Leaders as Coaches
Mike Meagher is founder and consultant at Sagency, an executive search and leadership consulting firm located in Fargo, ND. He partners with leaders to build valuable and impactful organizations where people reach their full potential. Mike’s craft combines practical strategies and the science of human behavior and motivation to help leaders hire, engage, develop, and retain the best people.
Mike began his career as a high school social studies educator and went on to be the business administrator for a church. He is a leader with a passion for building profitable and impactful companies through high-performance cultures. He believes the most important business decisions are about people, and the strongest driver of business success is hiring and developing the right people. Mike’s work originates from the truth that employees who are provided growth opportunities, personal fulfillment, and roles that fit them well will be more engaged. This engagement leads to greater personal satisfaction, productivity, and return on human investment.
Mike enjoys reading blogs and nonfiction books, and he participates in outdoor activities with friends and his wife, Ashley and daughter, Annie. His favorite book is Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive written by his favorite author, Patrick Lencioni. Mike loves spending time mountain biking—yes, even in eastern North Dakota. He also enjoys golf, cross-country skiing, hunting, and grilling with friends and family.
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Executive Events panelist 8.16.2017: Cash Flow
Judy has served as president of Gartner Financial Network since January 2001. Prior to that, she began her career with Prudential of America in 1976, and in 1989 made the move to being totally an independent agent and rep. In 1973, Judy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Concordia College, Moorhead,Mn. In 1985 she earned the Chartered Life Underwriter designation and in 1988 earned the Chartered Financial Consultant designation, both from the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA. The golden rule is treating clients like you would want to be treated is stressed.
She has hosted numerous educational seminars in the community, has been an instructor for insurance agent education and also is an independent contractor with MHN, which provides financial education to the military. Judy is dedicated to developing lasting relationships with all her clients. She has had many of them for over 30 years and has many generations of the same family. She believes in helping each person become confident in assessing his or her financial goals and participating in the financial management process. Judy stresses educating her clients so they understand what they have and why.
One of the benefits of working withJudy is her ability to provide clear, easily understandable explanations of financial products and services. The personal program that Judy can provide is a roadmap to working toward a more secure financial future.
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the100,inc GOLD Sponsor
Dr. Anne Carlsen, our namesake and former administrator, believed in the worth of every individual. Throughout her life she exemplified strength and nurturing, advocating for individuals with disabilities, and teaching them how to advocate for themselves, while creating a life of independence.
The Anne Carlsen Center offers a rich tradition of educational, residential, therapeutic, evaluation, and community-based services. Our individualized services include care for individuals — and families — of all ages with cerebral palsy; orthopedic, vision and hearing disabilities; autism, pervasive, and other behavior disorders; and other medical acuities.
Tim started with Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch – then called Dakota Boys Ranch – as a live-in house manager in 1983. He worked his way up the organization to Vice President of Programming and played an integral role in the development of co-ed programming and Ranch services throughout the Red River Valley.
He will provide the leadership, management and vision necessary to help grow the organization and ensure financial strength and operating efficiency. Eissinger has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in clinical counseling from NDSU.
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Premium Lawn & Snow Removal is a full-service commercial and residential lawn care, landscape maintenance, and snow removal company, serving the Fargo/Moorhead and lakes areas. Premium Lawn & Snow Removal prides itself on excellent customer service, efficiency, fair rates, and quality.
Premium Lawn & Snow Removal uses *premium* equipment to ensure customer satisfaction and optimal results.
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the100,inc Media Sponsor
Rob has been behind a lens since the age of 12 when he held his first film camera. At age 15, Rob took out a loan to buy video equipment and start his first business shooting wedding videos.
With over 13 years in the marketing industry, a graphic design degree, and multiple roles leading production for large agencies, Rob’s experience and passion for film are the heart of Yarn. When he isn’t creating, Rob can be found hitting the slopes of far away mountains with friends or watching Arrested Development.
Rob currently resides in Fargo, ND with his wife Ali and their dog Petra.
Specialties: Storytelling, branding, directing, cinematography, scripting, animation, identity, production. 2017 recipient of 4 ADDY Awards
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Panelist at November 15, 2017 Executive Luncheon, CYA, Cover Your Assets
Jessica is passionate about her work and committed to working in her client’s best interests. As a trusted financial advisor, Jessica has great skill in offering valuable advice to customers to help them achieve their goals. She takes great pride in building strong relationships with customers and getting to know them. Helping her clients succeed is the most rewarding part of her job. “I believe
banking and finance go beyond the numbers and that in my profession I can make a positive difference in people’s lives,” she says. During her 17-year tenure in the industry, Jessica’s clients have referenced her as open minded, solution driven, knowledgeable, and strategic: “An excellent person to have on your side to link of all your business and financial needs together.”
Active in the community, Jessica volunteers her time on the board of directors of the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest (ALAUM), the Plains Art Museum, and TNT Kids Fitness. She has also served the community in various capacities with the United Way of Cass-Clay. Jessica is a Certified Financial PlannerTM, holds a master’s degree in business (MBA) from North Dakota State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Minnesota State
University – Moorhead. Jessica lives in Horace, North Dakota, with her husband, Bill, and their two children and a crazy Doberman named “Red.” In her free time Jessica enjoys reading, gardening, fitness, and spending as much of her summer as possible at the lake.
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http://www.gbs-tpa.com/ Group Benefit Services (GBS) is an insurance claim technology organization headquartered in Springfield, Missouri. GBS has twenty-five years of experience in creating and administering self-funded health plans. A high level of flexibility and proven expertise gives GBS the ability to accommodate a diverse client base by developing innovative solutions, offering market-competitive pricing, and providing high quality service to help all clients achieve their individual objectives of lower healthcare costs, optimal health outcomes, and positive member experience. As the ACA environment evolves and our clients’ needs change, GBS is continually developing and enhancing our approach to servicing our valued clients.
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the100,inc. GOLD Sponsor
interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project
Executive Events panelist 9.13.2017: Extreme Leadership
Rachael is a results-oriented, transformational leader, and business executive with more than 20 years of experience in construction and other industries. Rachael’s entrepreneurial spirit has allowed her to develop several multi-million dollar businesses and brands from origination across a variety of industries. Rachael’s passion for the construction industry has been built on the foundation of excellence with the customer at the center of the experience with the framework of passion to transform vision to success. Rachael is recognized as a dynamic and knowledgeable leader and driver of excellence, with an expert ability to strategically design and implement programs, create business opportunities from origination, and transform organizations. Rachael is a mother and wife with close connection and involvement with multiple community organizations. She is a member of the Home Builder’s Association, Moorhead Business Association, sponsor for Babe Ruth Baseball, and has served on local school boards, and has volunteered with numerous community organizations.
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A LEADING MANUFACTURER OF SPECIALIZED RUBBER PRODUCTS
WCCO founder, Ed Shorma, was the son of immigrants and a farm boy who found himself on the world stage. He had a remarkable ability to establish a vision and work tirelessly to attain it. What was more impressive, however, was his way of inspiring other men and women with his drive and ambition so deeply that they, too, dedicated their lives in support of reaching the goals he set. This loyalty, combined with Ed’s dogged work ethic, helped him expand the family business into eight separate businesses and over one-thousand employees. This earned him the title of 1982 Small Business Person of the Year, a Small Business Administration award presented to him by President Ronald Reagan.
So how did a shoe cobbler get into rubber belting? Ed had a knack for seeing a need and figuring out a way to fill it – typically using unconventional measures. (A characteristic that is still very prevalent in WCCO’s culture today.) Ed started using his sewing skills to repair farm truck seats and tarps. He’d go on to win contracts for creating canvas belting alongside burgeoning farm equipment manufacturers which set the path for Wahpeton Canvas Company (WCCO). After a cotton shortage in the 1980s, WCCO repurposed heat-sealing equipment from the kitchen cabinet industry (another of one of the eight Shorma family ventures) into a rubber vulcanization press. From then till now, WCCO continues to engineer rubber products for a growing list of domestic and international equipment manufacturers and distributors. http://wccobelt.com/our-story/
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PRO Resources’ services allow you to combine the areas of your business that waste valuable time, while saving you money. Thus, giving you the freedom to work on things that really matter—like growing your business. Company Overview PRO Resources Corporation is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) that designs and implements human resource solutions for clients in small and mid-sized markets. We work shoulder-to-shoulder with our clients to develop creative solutions that increase productivity, improve the focus on core operations and maximize the return on their human capital investment.
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Key Personnel: Carissa Olsen | Chief Operating Officer
In 1978, Malcolm Tweten and his brother-in-law Maurice Gjelsness had an innovative idea. Both farmers had been growing potatoes in the Buxton and Reynolds area for a long time, and wanted to market their own potato crop. They started to kick around the idea of a potato warehouse/washplant facility in Buxton, ND. Together with their sons Steve Tweten and Ron Gjelsness on board, NoKota Packers, Inc. began to take shape.
During our first season in the fall of 1979, we stored potatoes in a facility that was still unfinished, represented 4 local farming operations, shipped 220,000 hundred weight of potatoes and employed 18 employees. Today, we have more than doubled in size, work with 5 different growers, have the ability to ship 600,000+ hundred weight of potatoes and employ around 35 employees throughout the year.
As we grew in product and building size we also added two partners. Tim Lee, employed as Washplant Manager since 1979, became a partner and vice president in 1991. Kendall Gjelsness, Maurice Gjelsness’s son became a partner after Maurice passed away in 1993. Malcolm Tweten passed away in 2013. Steve continues as President and Head of Sales and Ron as Secretary/Treasurer and in charge of transportation and storage. Mike Moen has been our Grower Representative since 1994.
We started NoKota Packers, Inc. in 1979 as a family business and it is still a family business today. This shows in our service, work ethic and uncompromising commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. We look back with satisfaction at our decision to promote Red River Valley red potatoes and we are excited about continuing our involvement in such a dynamic industry.
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Mike Brevik is a Brand and Marketing Strategist who partners with startups and well established companies to grow their professional brands. With 20+ years in the print, creative, and marketing industry, Mike spent over a decade of that time leading and building eCommerce solutions, Social Media strategies, and everything in between for two of the Midwest’s largest retailers. Building relationships is key to Mike’s approach and has enabled him to work with several premier brands from Nike, to Jordan, to Under Armour, to Harley Davidson, and many more along the way. Mike knows what it takes to truly define a brand and build long lasting connections with consumers. It’s how well you connect with the heart-beating people you’re trying to help and communicate your understanding back to them. Building strategic partnerships with clients is central to everything Mike does and how he produces the greatest end results for his customers. Mike chooses to be an ambassador of the brands he serves and an extension of the teams he supports. It’s this firm understanding of customer relationships that is at the foundation of the Cyberdogz Experience.
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RED E creates custom, innovative engineering solutions for manufacturers and businesses around the world. Jesse joined Red E in 2015 with more than 10 years of experience in the mechanical engineering field. The multitude of projects through several engineering firms have prepared him to take on the role as a Managing Partner and Vice President of Red E. With his strong attention to detail and his ability to adapt to any challenge, Jesse brings value to Red E clients finding solutions that meet their true need. Jesse has a considerable amount of experience in machine design, metal fab, and mechanical systems and is not afraid of getting his hands dirty to get the job done.
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Tim supervises the overall operation, growth and development of the foundation. He works with new and current donors and their advisors to create solutions that satisfy the donors’ philanthropic desires and the community’s needs. Tim is a native of Fargo, graduating from NDSU in 1971 and UND School of Law in 1974. For more than twenty years, Tim was in banking, managing trust departments in five communities including two separate departments in the Fargo Moorhead area. Most recently, he and his wife, Joan, owned a small local retail business.
Key Personnel: Greg Diehl, Development Officer
As Development Officer, Greg is responsible for developing new and existing funds. He oversees donor relations and services. Greg joined the FM Area Foundation in 2014. He previously served as Administrator of the Emergency Food Pantry of Fargo-Moorhead and Executive Director of the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center of Fargo-Moorhead. From 1988 to 2005, he served as the Sales and Marketing Manager of Red Flag Green Flag Resources. Greg has served on the United Way Cass Clay Campaign Cabinet and is a past board member of the North Dakota Alliance for Children’s Justice and Prevent Child Abuse North Dakota. He’s also the founder of the Red River Men’s Action Network.
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The Moorhead Business Association (MBA) fosters growth of Moorhead business through advocacy, networking and information. The MBA is committed to building a better place to conduct business by enhancing current business and by creating a community atmosphere, which helps encourage new business.
Although several business associations exist in Fargo-Moorhead and the surrounding area, none specifically cater to the needs of Moorhead businesses. The MBA addresses these needs by providing advocacy for small business issues as well as creating opportunities where small business owners can exchange ideas and build relationships. With our skills combined and our voices united, we can sculpt and improve the climate for Moorhead businesses.
Taking a stand for Moorhead businesses is what we stand for.
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Executive Events panelist 8.16.2017: Cash Flow
Steve eats, sleeps and breathes small business financing! He has been at the helm of Dakota Business Lending since 2010 after leading Prairieland CDC in Minnesota for 15 years. Knowledge of lending programs and strategy are definitely his forte. Steve uses this experience for the betterment of the entire industry by serving on the National Association of Development Companies (NADCO) Board of Directors. He has been involved with numerous committees to provide legislative advocacy and networking opportunities for small business development throughout the region.
With Steve in the lead, nobody gets left behind. He is a trailblazer that ensures the whole team plays a vital role to our mission. He knows the value of the services that we offer and wants to ensure that all businesses have the opportunity to take advantage of these programs to help them achieve their dreams. He is a pioneer that is always looking for new and better ways to do what we do and have a broader impact on the success of those we serve. https://www.dakotabusinesslending.com/steve
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http://www.pedigreetechnologies.com/company/ Headquartered in Fargo, ND, Pedigree Technologies is an award-winning provider of web-based software solutions that help companies track, monitor, and diagnose high-value assets and collaborate with mobile workers through the OneView platform.
With our system, companies have complete visibility into their operations, allowing them to make better business decisions. The data gathered and displayed by OneView allows our customers to manage vehicles, equipment, and workers from anywhere, on any device. Pedigree Technologies has a growing client-base of small, mid-size, and nationally known customers, with additional company representatives across the country.
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http://ndsbdc.org/fargo.cfm Paul joins the ND Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) Fargo Regional Center with 25 years of business and consulting experience. He has worked with organizations of all sizes and has a passion for helping companies start, manage and grow their businesses.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Lawrence University and a Master’s Degree from Northwestern University. His areas of expertise include leadership, strategic, marketing and operational planning and execution, organizational alignment, branding, communications and business development.
His experience spans a diverse range of industries including: financial, retail, manufacturing, technology, transitional management, agribusiness, customer service, engineering, healthcare and media. Most recently, he was vice president of a retail and wholesale financial services business in the Fargo area.
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Executive Expo planning committee | 1.24.18
Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota is proud to be known as “the first BBB!” We’re a non-profit organization founded by ethical business owners in the Twin Cities in 1912. BBB is supported today by more than 7,300 locally Accredited Businesses that believe in our mission.
LinkedIn: I was raised in Fargo, graduating from Fargo South High School and NDSU. A seasoned communications professional, my passion is to help non-profits and the communities they serve, thrive. Through communications, fundraising and marketing, for organizations such as CHARISM, ShareHouse, Great Plains Food Bank and The Boys & Girls Club of the Red River Valley I have dedicated my career to pulling mission, message and stakeholders together for a better community.
I joined the Better Business Bureau team to promote marketplace ethics and increase awareness of scams and unscrupulous business practices.
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Farm. Home. Business.
We are more that a Business, we are a Community Organization. Heartland Insurance participates in many community activities. We love getting our hands dirty.
We are located at 522 Minnesota Ave in Breckenridge, Minnesota. Just a stones throw down from Wilkin Eatery. Stop by if you have any questions about your currently plan, or want to know more about a new one.
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The Fargo Butler Center is the largest Mary satellite campus and serves eastern North Dakota. Conveniently located off of 13th Avenue, the Fargo Butler Center has been serving the region for almost 20 years, by offering selected undergraduate and graduate degrees specially designed for the working adult looking to finish a degree that fits their life.
The most popular programs at the Fargo campus are undergraduate degree completion programs in business fields, the MBA program, MS in Business, Master’s in Project Management, and the Master’s Programs in Counseling.
The Fargo Butler Center features nine classrooms with seating for 20 to 50 students and a computer lab with seating for 18 students. Classrooms are equipped with multimedia projectors and wireless internet access. Specific spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art teleconferencing equipment to connect with other campus locations.
In addition to the academic spaces, the Fargo Butler Center houses office space for Student Success Advisors, Admissions Representatives, and other Enrollment Services personnel, as well as faculty offices.
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Dayna Del Val has been President & CEO (formerly Executive Director until June 2017) of The Arts Partnership since 2010. She writes a monthly column on the arts for The Forum and Fargo, Inc. as well as maintaining an active social media presence. She is currently Board President of Arts North Dakota, a state-wide arts advocacy organization, as well as being on the ND Association of Nonprofits Organization Board of Directors; she is a former founding commissioner of the Art and Culture Commission for the City of Fargo. Additionally, she is a professional stage and commercial actor who can be seen and heard in local, regional and national ads. She is also a freelance writer; she currently writes the reflections section in Inspired Home magazine. Dayna lives in Fargo, ND.
About The Arts Partnership
The Arts Partnership is a dynamic umbrella arts organization devoted to cultivating the arts in our community. We communicate about, fund and advocate for the arts across many sectors, including the business community, educational centers, government, and the general public. Our core values are:
- Support Local Art and the artists who make it
- Advocate the arts’ role in a vibrant economy
- Promote a creatively enriched community
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Braaten Cabinets has been designing, manufacturing and installing custom made cabinetry for over 40 years. We provide hand crafted cabinetry, produced here in the Red River Valley, for new construction and remodels for both residential and commercial customers.
Braaten Cabinets has developed a well-deserved reputation for high quality custom cabinets that exceed customers’ expectations. We offer more features as standard when other companies provide these features at added cost. Custom-made also means that customers have an unlimited selection of wood, paint, stain and door styles to choose from. It’s no wonder why so many value-conscious customers decide to buy Braaten Cabinets.
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founding Member #13
Interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project (Cash Flow)
Executive Events panelist 8.16.17: Cash Flow Luncheon Executive Expo Breakout Session presenter 1.24.18: Raising Capital
Neil is a serial entrepreneur, a natural problem solver and business leader. 
After a successful career in engineering and infrastructure development for the University of Washington, Neil moved into sales. Two years of selling medical services to physicians uncovered a new opportunity as laser aesthetics were just becoming popular. Neil’s company Laser Advantage, LLC worked with doctors in seven states to jointly open and operate laser aesthetics clinics. After selling the line of clinics, he recognized the next opportunity: to consult with physicians and help them better manage, grow and operate their practices and clinics. He successfully grew Laser Advantage Consulting to a multi-million dollar business operating across all 50 states and 7 provinces.
After years of working with medical practices, he understood the broader challenges facing many small and medium business owners: businesses owners are generally not versed in finance and how to interpret standard financial reports. Upon realizing that half of small businesses fail after 4-5 years – even if they are profitable, Neil knew there had to be a better way. And so, Profit Pros® was born. Neil worked with local businesses in his home town of Fargo to develop and refine the concepts that are now codified in his SAAS product, Profit Pros® Profit Recovery Analysis Platform. Working with business advisors and CPAs, Profit Pros® has served over 200 businesses, and has ingested around 3 billion dollars into the Profit Recovery Analysis Platform, generating over $200,000,000 in profits recovered and counting.
Neil has served on the Fargo Rotary International Board of Directors as well as the Fargo Business Network International Board of Directors. His interests include golf, travel and spending time with family.
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Three acres of potatoes were the seed for the first SCHEELS store in 1902. Frederick A. Scheel, a German immigrant, used the $300 he earned from that first harvest of potatoes as the down payment on the first SCHEELS, a small hardware and general merchandise store in Sabin, Minnesota.
Over the years, SCHEELS opened in surrounding communities, including Fargo, North Dakota, where the Corporate Office is now located.
Firmly planted in the hardware business, SCHEELS started adding a small selection of sporting goods to their stores in 1954. Customer interest grew, and more and more sports lines were added with athletic shoes and clothing being introduced to the SCHEELS’ product mix in 1972.
SCHEELS’ first All Sports Superstore opened in Grand Forks, ND in 1989. SCHEELS’ Reno/Sparks, Nevada location opened in 2008 and is the World’s Largest All Sports Store. Today, SCHEELS is a 27-store operation with stores in 12 states including North Dakota, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Nevada, Utah, Kansas, and Colorado. Providing SCHEELS’ customers with first-class customer service and the world’s largest selection of sports, sportswear and footwear are the priorities throughout the organization.
Today, Steve D. Scheel, the great grandson of SCHEELS’ founder, is the company’s Chairman of the Board, and great-great grandson Steve M. Scheel is CEO. Bill Nelson serves as President and oversees SCHEELS’ daily operations of more than 6,000 associates.
SCHEELS is an employee-owned, privately held business that owes its consistent success to its empowered associates, leaders and partners who think and make decisions for their individual stores and the entire company.
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http://www.fsw-co.com/michael-sundquist-cpa
EDUCATION: Minnesota State University Moorhead | Bachelor of Science, Accounting 1983
EXPERIENCE: Joined Fiebiger, Swanson, West and Co. in 2010 – Partner in 2010Prior to joining our firm – 25+ years experience as an accountant for a variety of businesses and individuals
PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS: Certified Public Accountant – North Dakota and Minnesota 1984 | Member of North Dakota Society of CPAs & American Institute of CPAs
AREAS OF EXPERTISE: Corporate, Partnership & Individual Taxation | Tax Planning & Consulting | Financial Consulting
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interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project
Experienced Director Of Technology with a demonstrated history of working in the computer software industry.
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Mike holds a construction management degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead and also a degree in civil technology/land surveying from North Dakota State College of Science. Before joining Midwest Construction Group, Mike gained many years of experience as an estimator/project manager in the Twin Cities, Fargo and Tri-State area.
Midwest Construction Group is bringing a hands-on approach to construction management, development, design/build, consulting and general contracting in Fargo. Throughout the entire construction process, we’re focused on taking good care of our clients by maintaining close communication and ensuring the level of quality they expect.
Mission “To be a premier provider of construction services to our clients by employing and supporting motivated, flexible and focused teams.” http://mwconstgrp.com/?page_id=72
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Home Design and Supply lumberyard and design center in West Fargo is the area’s home improvement experts. We offer an array of home design services and materials ready to fit your vision for your next project.
Dan Hicks is a respected commercial real estate professional with unique qualities that set him apart from other real estate pros. Dan believes his clients deserve expertise, loyalty and plausibility; attributes they see in him and keep them coming back.
Dan’s hard work and determination to succeed helped build the commercial and property management departments at Town & Country Realty from scratch, and now brings his passion for the real estate industry to Property Resources Group’s commercial division.
Dan served on the Fargo-Moorhead Commercial Exchange (COMEX) Board of Directors for four years. In 2011 Dan served as the President of COMEX. Prior to his Presidential term, Dan served two terms as Vice President, and also as Secretary/Treasurer and Member Leader of the Technology Committee.
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Executive Events panelist 9.13.2017: Extreme Leadership
DJ Colter is the owner of the DJ Colter Agency of American Family Insurance, where he has been taking care of the needs of clients since 2003. His agency currently has two branches in Fargo and Cando, ND. In addition, DJ is an entrepreneur and has had ownership in several businesses including Ron’s Aqua Massage, Oreck Clean Home Center, Basement Technologies of North Dakota and Mrs. Field’s Cookies. He and his business partner Jason Frueh are enjoying success of their international business My Creative Shop. He also oversees the business operations of several rental properties.
DJ and his team have received many awards over the years including 2004-2017 AFLIC (many LIfe Diamond) and All American (10 year Hall of Famer) designations with American Family Insurance. His agency was #7 (among 4000 agencies) in the 2016 All American campaign, the first time this has been awarded to a ND company in its 90 year history.
DJ is passionate about giving back to his community. He volunteers, has held leadership positions or has been o various committees in the Chamber of Commerce, Realtors’ Association, Homebuilders’ Association, Emergency Food Pantry, Valley Christian Counseling, Athletes in Action, CRU, Followship of Christian Athletes, FM Powerlunch and is a member of the Horace Lions Club.
He and his wife Jennifer are the parents of three daughter: Kennedy, Harper and McKenna. They currently live in Horace.
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interview with Wes Henry’s Business Connection Project
The average four-year cost for an in-state university is currently $96,000 and $188,000 for a private college! With absurdly high and ever-increasing college costs and average graduation rates of almost six years (per child), like most parents, you’re probably concerned about paying for college without going broke or taking on significant student loan debt. Will you need to sacrifice your retirement savings outlook in order to help educate your children?
Contact CollegeSmart at 701-361-7635 today and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and learn how we can help you send your child to college without going broke in the process!
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the100,inc. GOLD Sponsor
Key Personnel
Taylor Engelhart taylor.engelhart@expresspros.com Candice Ahmann candice.ahmann@expresspros.com Matt Helander matt.helander@expresspros.com
On a Mission to Put a Million People to Work
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BACKING NORTH DAKOTA’S AMBITION
At Lake Agassiz Development Group, we understand that a thriving economy is the cornerstone of a strong community. For more than 40 years, we’ve been backing ambitious, hard-working North Dakotans by providing a wide-range of services to spark economic development across our state. From government grants to small business loans we connect city leaders, county representatives and local entrepreneurs with the funds and financial resources they need to grow business and build strong communities
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Andrew J. Abernathey is the Founder & CEO of Abernathey Holding Co. Mr. Abernathey began his investing career at the age of 13, investing in a variety of public securities and achieved an annual growth rate of 171.44% for 3 years. Since the beginning, Mr. Abernathey has been deeply interested in Warren Buffett’s value investing approach.
Prior to beginning his investment career in full earnest, Mr. Abernathey always had a deep interest in business. This passion was exhibited by Mr. Abernathey with the commencement of other business operations. Mr. Abernathey, alongside his brother, founded Abernathey Brothers Farm, which is in the business of planting, growing, and harvesting thousands of acres of small grains to then sell in the open market. The operations have quickly grown into multiple locations in Lansford and Bottineau North Dakota. Mr. Abernathey believes Mr. Buffett’s quote “One is a better businessman because he is an investor, and a better investor because he is a businessman.”
Mr. Abernathey launched Abernathey Holding Co.’s first value oriented investment partnership in August of 2012. Abernathey Holding Co.’s first investment partnership was inspired by the original 1950’s Warren Buffett partnership. Since inception, the investment partnerships have achieved market-beating returns for its investors/partners and has grown its assets under management.
Abernathey Holding Co. prides itself on being a boutique fund for the sophisticated investor and was created with a partner-first mentality. Mr. Abernathey’s competitive advantage in the marketplace is due to his unique selling proposition for his partners and his approach to investing for the long-term. Abernathey Holding Co. never rushes into an investment and only focuses it’s attention on companies with at least a 10-year track record, and a solid management team in place. Mr. Abernathey’s only looks for opportunities that produce superior returns, with minimal risks for his partners.
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Northland Truss Systems, Inc. was founded by Rick Pierce in 1992 and started with a handful of Truss Workers, two Truss Designers, one Truck Driver and an Office Manager. Northland Truss designs and manufactures roof trusses and floor trusses for new construction. Alpine Engineering of Pampano Beach, Florida approves all of our truss designs, in addition to furnishing the truss plates for manufacturing our trusses.
Rick Pierce hand-picked and thoroughly trained a top-notch management team. With the passing of Rick on August 25, 2003, his wife Deb Pierce took over as the President and Owner of Northland Truss. Deb guided our company in the direction that Rick had intended by working closely with the management team. In May 2014 Deb sold Northland Truss to the management team which included Chris Lange, General Manager and President; Curt Mathias, Sales Manager and Corporate Secretary; Tim Nicklay, Production Manager and Vice President and Terry Short, Plant Manager and Treasurer.
With new ownership comes new improvements. In spring 2015, a new roof truss table was purchased to increase productivity of roof trusses. Also in 2015, 3 acres of land behind the plant was purchased to have extra storage space for completed trusses and to park trucks and trailers when not out on deliveries.
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Chuck has served on the board of directors for the NDSU Research and Technology Park for most of its existence. He brings executive-level leadership experience as former president and CEO of Bobcat Company and former CEO of Otter Tail Corporation’s manufacturing platform.
“Chuck has been involved with the Research and Technology Park for many years and has spent much of his career as a business executive,” said NDSU President Dean L. Bresciani, who also serves as president of the park’s board of directors. “He brings outstanding experience to this position, and we are glad to be able to tap into that for this arm of the university that helps commercialize NDSU research.”
Hoge had been president and chief executive officer of Bobcat since 1998. Earlier, he worked for Clark Equipment, Bobcat’s former owner, dating back to 1978. Chuck earned his master’s degree in Business Administration from Andrews University and has participated in the Notre Dame University Graduate Studies-Executive Program.
Key Personnel | John Cosgriff | Incubator Manager
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Helping you achieve a Healthy Mind … Teresa is an inspirational speaker, mindset coach and author. She works one-on-one, in small groups, teams, and with any size audience. Great results are achieved when she gets to work with teams on an ongoing basis; monthly accountability plus group dynamics create huge strides forward. She is a certified coach and speaker with The 7 Mindsets. This allows her to share the principles that lead to happiness, meaning, success and fulfillment.
Teresa brings passion, optimism and integrity into her work. Her life experiences have paved the way for her to positively impact her clients. She’s had over 25 years in the business world, with several years in human resources. What she loved most about human resources was the opportunity to provide others with encouragement and support and this is now what she brings to her clients. She is an engaging and interactive facilitator who brings practical application to ideas and dreams.
Keynote Speaker: Executive Expo 2018
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Focused on Helping You in Your Business
Barry Gish, Certified EOS Implementer and owner of Traction Planning, is a proven professional in helping Leadership Teams get what they want from their organization for more than three decades.
Barry has a unique ability to understand the challenges of leadership and management and is well-acquainted with what it takes to run an organization. He has held positions with IBM and RSM McGladrey at a national level, as well as various regional firms. He has served as President and COO, Vice President of Planning and Development, Vice President of Development, Consulting Manager, and Sales Representative with industry-leading companies.
Barry has been adviser and facilitator to numerous Leadership Teams in construction, manufacturing, distribution, retail, and service firms, as well as non-profit entities including colleges, tribal, and religious.
With every client, the goal is simple: to help Leadership Teams reduce frustrations, gain control, and get better results by mastering The Six Key Components™ of The EOS Process™, get what they want from their organization, and become a stronger more effective entity.
Barry is driven to excellence, committed to the highest integrity, and focused on measurable outcomes for each client. His customer relationships, built on his sound counsel and personal commitment to helping them meet their goals, has earned him their lasting trust and friendship. Barry has two married daughters, seven grandchildren and lives in Fargo, ND with his wife of 44 years.
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Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) were created in 1980 with a simple goal in mind: to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed. In general, the West Central Minnesota Small Business Development Center (WC MN SBDC) provides over 3,500 hours of no-cost business consulting to over 250 clients on a yearly basis. The WC MN SBDC assists in securing over $14 million in investment capital annually. The nine counties we serve are Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, and Wilkin. The WC MN SBDC is a public and private partnership supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), Concordia College and other local partners.
Whether you’re just starting out, planning a new stage of growth, or managing a current business the SBDC offers resources tailored to your very specific needs and goals. You can meet with our consultants or attend our events.
The West Central Minnesota Small Business Development Center is hosted by Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. Our offices can be found on the top floor of the Offutt School of Business located in the Grant Center.
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Since 2002, Meridian Seeds has been producing quality chickpeas, field peas, spring wheat, winter wheat, flax and more. As a locally owned seed company, we work hard to match growers from North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, Washington, Oregon, California, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Iowa, with retailers from around the world. We constantly push to find and test new varieties through our trials in order to meet the needs of the global food market. Each variety that is introduced goes through vigorous testing to ensure that they have clearly defined pedigree.
Meridian Seeds is owned by an expanding group of knowledgeable, reputable seed growers and retailers who provide personal service and agronomic advice. As owners of Meridian Seeds and as seedsmen, members are committed to the seed industry and to the communities in which they do business.
Key Personnel Brad Hertel | Sales Manager bhertel@meridianseeds.com
Troy Gerding | tgerding@meridianseeds.com
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Robin Nelson has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of the Red River Valley / Youth Commission non-profit partnership since January, 2012.
Her personal commitment to our community is to provide today’s youth with the tools to become productive and contributing members of society. Nelson’s commitment to our youth’s futures is evidenced in her history of serving as a three-term elected school board member and as a mayoral appointee to Fargo’s Youth Initiative advisory board, Fargo’s Native American Commission and The Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Addiction coalition.
She currently serves as the North Dakota’s Afterschool Alliance United States Ambassador; on the Workforce Development Committee addressing affordable childcare; as a Great Plains Food Bank board officer and a Fargo Public Schools Foundation board member; on United Way’s Education Collaborative and as the Fargo Early Childhood Education Coalition Chair.
In addition, she has served as a Shriner’s Children’s Hospital Auxiliary fundraiser and a former school district Governmental Affairs chair and elementary school PTA president. Nelson has managed and consulted on countless political campaigns at the city and state level and serves as a frequent panelist and consultant in the educational, political and business community.
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Rapid Refill Fargo is a veteran owned and operated retail store. Rapid Refill Fargo is focused on providing our customers outstanding customer service. Rapid Refill is committed to being involved in our community. Cleaner and friendlier, we want to make our community a better place to live.
Rapid Refill Fargo is a total print solutions provider for consumers, businesses, educators and community organizations. Our store carries extensive inventories of popular brand name inkjet and laser toner cartridges like HP, Canon, Dell, Epson, and Lexmark, as well as Rapid Refill Fargo brand inkjet and high quality remanufactured laser toner cartridges for virtually every printer model.
SISTER COMPANY TOTAL IMAGING: Total Imaging has offered exceptional customer service since 2005 when we opened in West Fargo and we continue that service today while now being co-located inside of Rapid Refill. Our best products include ink, printed lots of promo products and more.
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Panelist | Execution: Transforming Your Organization into a Goal-Crushing Machine 12.13.2017
HueLife helps organizations and communities solve challenges related to human understanding and engagement (that’s what hue stands for).
Our facilitators, trainers and consultants use participatory methods, organizational psychology, story-telling, team-building and self-awareness techniques to tap into the wisdom of groups, from small teams to entire organizations.
A big proponent of customer-centricity, Andrea helps clients and communities use participatory methods to solve organizational issues, plan strategically and achieve shared outcomes. She also oversees HueLife’s infrastructure and systems. Before her life as an entrepreneur, Andrea worked at Microsoft developing teams and leading projects nationally and internationally. She has an MBA in Information Systems and a Bachelors in Psychology. She is also a ToP trained practiticioner, and certified by Dale Carnegie and Rotary International. Talk to Andrea about facilitating, training or presenting at AndreaHochhalter@hue.life.
Feb13, 2018 Why I merged my business. Thrilled to announce Beyond Facilitation has merged with HueLife! My passion has always been to help organizations achieve impact through engagement. In order to better facilitate transformations in organizations and communities it became clear I needed to engage with like minded professionals on a shared vision to achieve greater good for those I serve and seek to serve. Excited about our new team and all we can achieve collectively! – Andrea
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Knight Printing was established in 1888 when Fargo was still young, and North Dakota had not yet become a state. Fred Knight, an east coast printer, hauled a printing press west to the Dakota Territory to start his company. From this humble beginning through today, that very same passion has driven growth and change to meet the challenges of today and provide you with the best printing possible.
Dave Nelson, co-owner, Knight Printing of Fargo and Image Printing of Bismarck ….with nearly 25 years of printing experience, he has had the opportunity to experience all aspects of printing, from production, to sales and the business operations of the company. His experience and expertise will assure your project will be done to your satisfaction with the best business practices in the industry.
The world of Printing has changed dramatically over the past decade. Dave makes sure Image Printing stay up to speed with the changing trends in Digital printing, cross media marketing, and the core business of Print. The world of printing is exciting and dynamic. If you need a new way to bring technology and unique products to your print experience, Dave is always available to assist.
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http://faceitfargomoorhead.org/about-us/our-team/kristi-ulrich
Kristi Ulrich is a seasoned business leader with more than 20 years of leadership and marketing experience in North Dakota and Minnesota. She has led the communications efforts of multiple companies, including Heritage Homes, Moorhead Center Mall and Greater North Dakota Association. Most recently, Ulrich served as Director of Communications and Director of Development for Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota.
Kristi has served in numerous leadership and volunteer roles throughout the community. She currently serves on the Fargo Public Schools Board of Education and is active in the Chamber of Commerce Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo, Rotary Club and Hope Lutheran Church.
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Founded in 1968, the Fargo-Moorhead Opera Company brings high quality opera experiences for any and all members of our community and region.
David Hamilton joined the staff of Fargo-Moorhead Opera in 1999 as Artistic Director and became General Director in 2006. He is responsible for all company operations including all artistic decisions, fundraising and staff oversight and is been the public face of the company. Under his guidance, the company presented its first world premiere with The Poe Project in 2014. In 2014 he also secured funds to create the Gate City Bank Young Artist program
Prior to joining FM Opera, Mr. Hamilton was a full-time performing musician. His distinctive, elegant lyric tenor voice has been heard at many opera companies including the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Opera, Washington Opera, Vancouver Opera, Opéra de Nice, and Teatro Bellini in Catania. His broad repertoire as an orchestral soloist has led to engagements with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, the symphony orchestras of Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Indianapolis. Among the awards he has received are First Prize and Opera Prize in the Paris International Competition, First Place in the Eleanor Steber Competition. He is a recipient of North Dakota Governor’s Award for the Arts.
Mr. Hamilton holds a Master of Music degree from the Juilliard School of Music, and a Bachelor of Music with honors degree from the University of Iowa. In addition to his work with FM Opera, Mr. Hamilton is a Professor of Voice and Italian at Concordia College in Moorhead.
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Jeremiah Program offers one of the nation’s most successful strategies for transforming families from poverty to prosperity two generations at a time. Jeremiah prepares determined single mothers to excel in the workforce, readies their children to succeed in school, and reduces generational dependence on public assistance.
Jeremiah’s proven, holistic approach begins with establishing a supportive community for determined single mothers to pursue a career-track, college education. Through a combination of quality early childhood education, a safe and affordable place to live, and empowerment and life skills training, families find stability and a path out of poverty. https://jeremiahprogram.org/about-us/
Solinger joined Jeremiah after serving as Assistant and Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Vice President of Enrollment Management at Minnesota State University Moorhead and in multiple student affairs and fundraising roles with Mankato State. She also was Director of Residence Life at University of Denver. She is leading the Jeremiah’s efforts to build a campus in Fargo-Moorhead.
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We offer home repair and renovation services; FREE of charge to low income families across Cass and Clay County. Many live in substandard conditions and the need continues to grow as more homeowners are forced to choose between vital necessities and critical home repair and maintenance.
We serve the hundreds of low income families in need of home repair with an emphasis on helping seniors, Veterans and people living with disabilities. Our goal is to help homeowners stay safe and healthy in their home by completing 30-50 projects each year.
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The Emergency Food Pantry is a food distribution program whose mission is to provide referred families and individuals facing emergency situations with one week’s supply of healthy food.
For over 40 years, the Emergency Food Pantry has been located in the Fargo-Moorhead community to help feed the citizens of Cass and Clay counties in times of crisis, unemployment, fire, family violence, medical problems, and other difficult situations. The Pantry provides hungry families and individuals with wholesome food to tide them over during these times of emergency.
http://www.emergencyfoodpantry.com/about.html
Stacie Loegering grew up in West Fargo, North Dakota. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development at North Dakota State University and Master of Education at University of Minnesota – Duluth. Stacie is our Executive Director. In this role she directs all programs, operations, and services. In her current role she connects individuals and families in Cass and Clay counties to healthy food. Prior experience includes 20+ years in nonprofit organizations working with individuals and families. In each of her previous experiences she connected people with resources.
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http://www.bonanzaville.org/about-us/ The Cass County Historical Society was organized in 1954 and became a nonprofit corporation in North Dakota in 1955. Later that year, we got into the museum business when the Pioneer Daughters donated the contents of their historical museum, which was housed in the basement of Menard Hall at NDSU (then NDAC). It wasn’t until 1972 that the present museum building was constructed on land donated by the Red River Valley Fair. Artifacts were then moved from Menard Hall to the new museum. CCHS had been collecting buildings from around the county, and moving them to the location now called Bonanzaville, since 1967. The name refers to the large Bonanza farms that once existed in the Red River Valley.
Over the years, we have accumulated 43 historic buildings with numerous museums, such as the Eugene Dahl Car Museum, the Eagles Air Museum, the tractor museum, the Law Enforcement Museum, and more.
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An experienced Lean Enterprise Leader with a background built on lean education, respect for people and proven results. Adept at partnering with all stakeholders to identify, improve upon and drive compelling change across an organization. Proven team leader with exceptional abilities to connect and communicate across and with all levels of the organization. History of exceeding corporate goals through team development, challenging status quo and bringing out the best in people making the change truly sustainable.
Selected accomplishments:
• Led Kaizen effort at the University of Iowa Hospital on the “CT” scan process that resulted in a 31% throughput improvement, a 91% reduction in Radiology Tech travel and a 30% improvement in scan time. This eliminated a 2 week backlog for CT scans and resulted in an almost $1M revenue increase for the University of Iowa Hospital system. Work was cited in a recent book by the AME “Lean Administration”.
• Consultant/Team member for partnerships with the Iowa Healthcare Collaborative (IHC), Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), Pella Regional Hospital, IHC Healthcare “Hot” team and others.
• Championed Landscape Structures foray into competitive intelligence by researching competitors, visiting playground sites, testing equipment, developing an “engine” to record information, connecting that engine externally and leading an internal cross-functional group to help sustain the work.
• Through extensive training, Kaizen work and focus on the factory, helped to achieve the lowest level of customer issues (“CCN”) in 2010 while product complexities doubled in the same timeframe (Product lines that produced 1M or more in revenue went from 6 to 13). This was accomplished with staffing cuts of 33%.
Specialties: Leadership, Change Agent, Business Process, Continuous Improvement, Lean Processes, Kaizen Trainer,Enterprise Value Stream Mapping, Strategy Deployment, 5S, Root Cause Methodology, Visual Workplace
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Angela started her career at Bank of America Mortgage in 1996 after graduating from the University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management with a Bachelor of Science in Business. She has excelled in the customer service and sales industry ever since. Angela recently received her XINNIX Certified Originator (XCO) designation which is a prestigious professional accomplishment held by less than ½ of 1% of all mortgage professionals. She is highly trained and excited to become your mortgage banker.
Whether you are searching for your first home, or you are a seasoned homeowner. Valley Mortgage, Inc. is your choice for home loans in the Fargo-Moorhead and surrounding areas. We originate all types of loans including ND Housing Finance Agency, FHA, VA, Rural Housing and Conventional. We finance homes throughout the metro area, but also cover all rural areas throughout North Dakota and Minnesota. http://valleymortgageinc.com/process.php?option=com_content&id=1
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Patrick Kirby is the Founder of Do Good Better Consulting and a believer that “we’ve always done it this way” is the most dangerous phrase in the English language.
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FARGO—The Downtown Community Partnership has hired Melissa Rademacher as its new president and CEO.
Rademacher was hired by downtown Fargo developer Kilbourne Group last fall as a business development manager, according to Forum archives. Prior to that, she served as general manager of the Moorhead Center Mall.
Rademacher is a Fargo native and graduate of Fargo South High School and North Dakota State University, where she studied apparel textiles and business. After college, she managed Abercrombie and Anthropologie stores on the East and West coasts before returning to North Dakota to be closer to family.
According to Tim Flakoll, chairman of the Downtown Community Partnership board, Rademacher “is well-known and respected in the community and has a proven ability to attract and retain new and existing businesses to downtown Fargo.”
“The board of directors felt that Melissa has a strong understanding of the mission, roles, responsibilities and vision of the DCP. She has worked in complex business environments and has a strong understanding of teams and what motivates them,” Flakoll said. “She has a strong record, working literally coast to coast in building successful organizations and teams. She brings extraordinary marketing, retail and relationship skills to the position and will be a great advocate for the downtown.”
In a press release issued Tuesday, Oct. 11, Radermacher said “I look forward to working with the businesses, residents and guests who love the downtown. Fargo has been a case study in how people, when working together in a focused approach, can have a transformational lasting impact on a city. Yet, there are other emerging opportunities that we must identify and capitalize on to make the downtown experience even better. My goal is that no matter what draws you to the downtown, that each time it delivers for you and makes a positive lasting impression.”
Mike Hahn resigned as president and CEO of the DCP May 16 after serving nearly seven years on the job. Rademacher will assume the position in November.
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Building the Community and Making Jobs
Experienced with a demonstrated history of working in the retail and event planning industry. Skilled in Operations Management, Retail, Communication, Heavy Equipment, and Event Management. Strong business development professional with an acute likeness to mindfulness.
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Interior Design, Project Coordination, Space Planning, Remodeling
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Located 2 blocks South of Main Avenue on the west side of 45th Street South across the street from the West 45th Business Center.
The Auto Spa, locally owned and operated, was established in 2004 with a dream, a vision and a passion for the auto detailing & reconditioning industry. We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service and maintain the highest level of quality and dedication. Each vehicle is treated with the utmost pride and integrity. We cater exclusively to the individual auto owner’s needs, wants and desires. Our performance is reflected on each and every final product that we deliver. We service the entire Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead & surrounding areas and have over 25 years of experience in the car care industry.
I am also a licensed real estate agent with RE/MAX Legacy Realty and one of the Designer Homes and LUXE Custom Homes specialists. My knowledge of the home buying/selling and building process will ensure that your vision, your desires and your dreams of the “Perfect” home will come true. I was born and raised in Grand Forks, ND. I am a proud father of three kids. My wife Kari and I have lived in Fargo for the past 20 years and have enjoyed seeing the community grow into what it is today and are proud to call this community our home.
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Founded in 1924, Comstock Construction Inc. is a fourth generation, family-run construction company. Starting in small remodeling and home projects, we have grown into a leading full-service builder for clients seeking general construction, design-build, construction management, and turnkey services for projects of all sizes. From demolition to earthwork, concrete to steel erection, and all aspects of carpentry, our team has the resources, expertise and craftsmanship needed to complete many of the critical elements of your project.
Headquartered in Wahpeton, ND, Comstock has completed projects throughout North Dakota as well as Minnesota and South Dakota.
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Our primary mission is to assist North Dakotans with disabilities to improve their employment opportunities and to assist North Dakota businesses in finding solutions to their disability-related issues.
Through this “dual client” approach, we assist individuals with permanent injuries, illness, or impairments to achieve competitive employment and increased independence. We also assist business owners and employers through full service business consultation on a variety of business and disability-related areas.
DVR and the workforce development partners work closely with employers, businesses, and organizations in all North Dakota industries.
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A holistic approach to helping people in business execute real solutions for the real problems they encounter every day. At the core is a leadership, brand and culture focused approach to coaching people through their challenges to become who they want to be as a person in the world, and as a person in business. Services include business coaching, tax advisory, accounting advisory and investment advisory.
Professional Background: Michael is a trusted Business Coach. He prepares 300 tax returns per year, and has over 29 years in the tax business. Michael has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and is a Fellow of the National Tax Practice Institute. Michael does business, corporate, individual, farm, and daycare, taxes.
About Mike: Michael is married to Donna, his wife of 29 years and has several four legged children. They have been successfully breeding and showing wire fox terriers since 1986. Michael’s hobbies and interests include golf, travel, and cultivating friendships.
Favorite Non-Fiction book: Good to Great by Jim Collins Favorite Work of Fiction: All the Iron Man movies.
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https://offpriceexchange.com/about Serial entrepreneur and fashion maven, Ciara Stockeland, has owned and operated businesses since her early teens. In 1993, her passion for the stage drove her to start up the Third Street Acting Company in Fargo, ND at the age of 13. In 2006 after her final curtain call she set her business mindset on retail and opened her first retail store, Mama Mia, a high-end maternity store. Shortly after, she developed and opened MODE a designer outlet store located next to Mama Mia. After two years of operating the two concepts, she chose to merge her two ideas into MODE and developed the concept into a franchise.
Ciara believes in the power of mentorship and has been working with many trusted advisors through her entire business journey. She is highly active with SCORE, an organization that is the largest network of expert business mentors across the nation. Ciara was recognized as a Small Business Champion through SCORE and was awarded the Outstanding Franchise Small Business Award in 2015.
Her passion for small business was recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 2016 when she was named a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Dream Big Award Finalist representing the Midwest region. Additionally, Ciara is active in the International Franchise Association and an advocate for small businesses. In 2015 and 2016, she had the opportunity to testify before two U.S. Senate Committees regarding the “joint employer” standard for businesses and its effect on small businesses and franchises.
Additionally, in 2015 she represented small businesses at a White House Summit on Worker Voice. Through the IFA, Ciara earned her Certified Franchise Executive designation. Ciara strives to motivate women to believe in their dreams and be creators of their own stories. She was recognized by Prairie Business Magazine in 2015 as a recipient of the 40 under 40 for her leadership in business and in 2016 as a recipient of the 40 Under 40 Women in Business.
She currently resides in Grand Forks, ND with her husband (and business partner) Jim and their two children Harrison and Isabella.
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Travis Beauchene is an artist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from North Dakota State University and a Master of Fine Arts from The George Washington University in D.C. Travis has been painting for 14 years, studying and teaching photography for 8 years, and marketing for a variety of businesses for 5 years. His artistic approach to everything he does, both in business and in life, provides him a unique insight that leads to exciting and innovative output. Travis currently resides in a tiny home in Detroit Lakes, MN where he runs STUDIO THREE BEAU with his wife Brittany and daughter Millie.
STUDIO THREE BEAU specializes in three artistic branches: Architectural Photography, Fine Art and Design/Marketing.
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My passion for working with people, combined with creative design and technical expertise in everything I do assures you a well-designed, creative project. With over 30 years of design industry experience, I have extensive experience with cabinets, flooring, furniture and draperies. I bring to my clients an understanding of the construction process as well as trusted relationships with local contractors, trade partners and architects. This unique combination will provide you with exceptional results. When designing, I pay close attention to your needs and preferences. We will work together to create beautiful functional spaces that perfectly reflect your personality and compliment your lifestyle.
I believe in giving back to our community and am passionate about helping those less fortunate. I am actively involved at my Church as well with FM Home Builders Association, Rotary International and Rebuilding Together. Serving others has become a cornerstone value that Design Direction’s success has been and will continue to be built on. A Fargo resident, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our children and friends.
Design Direction is an interior design company in Fargo, ND offering a full Tool Box of services and products for new construction, remodeling, and redecorating. We carry a complete line of floor covering products, from hardwood, and ceramic tile to carpeting, and window coverings, from blinds to custom draperies and bedding. We partner with a great team of professional installers to complete your project. We also assist clients with services such as interior decorating, design, cabinet layout, space planning, furniture, accessories, stain and paint selections. When you work with Design Direction you can expect us taking time to get to know you, as every client is unique. Your home or office will reflect “you” when we are finished.
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North Dakota Grain Inspection Service, Inc. “NDGI” and Illinois Official Grain Inspection “IOGI” are the federally designated laboratories licensed to officially sample and grade grain under the United States Grain Standards Act in their respective areas. While locally there may be other inspection labs operating, the USDA grants only one agency the authority to carry out and issue official inspections for that locale.
NDGI Service has been servicing the inspection needs of Eastern North Dakota and Western Minnesota since 1968. Steve Adams, Owner of NDGI, has always been an avid supporter of the official system, promoting the official inspection system to all that would listen and through published articles. Today, NDGI is a thriving family business. Steve’s tenets to provide accurate results, timely service, and always pushing to improve the company, have grown the agency from its North Dakota headquarters in Fargo to operations in eight states.
NDGI has grown from 3 employees in 1968 providing service to a small local area to over 200 employees in 2016 servicing 8 states across the nation. NDGI prides itself in the important role they play in the grain marketing system. The intensity found in the grain marketing system rivals and exceeds most other industries, although those outside the grain industry rarely know this. A small mistake by the agency can have huge ramifications for commission houses, grain companies and the railroads. Steve Adams realized that being in this critical point, between all these forces required NDGI to continually look for better ways to provide timely service, and accurate results.
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the100,inc. GOLD Sponsor
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OK Tire Stores are primarily a distributor of tires and tire related products and services, but they are also an ACDelco auto part distributor for our Minot and Grand Forks locations. Tires featured include Multi-Mile and Sigma (private label brands), General, Michelin®, Dayton, Sumitomo, Bridgestone, Firestone, and Kleber. OK Tire also manufactures Bandag retreads at its Fargo location. Fargo is also the location of the main distribution warehouse. Most stores provide auto and truck mechanical services and alignments.
Opened January 1960 in Fargo. Now with 9 locations.
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My love for music started at an early age. My father was a professional musician so music was always a part of my life as long as I can remember. When I was 8 years old my dad created the “Harmon Family Band” with my 3 brothers and sisters and mom. I sang and played the base guitar. We practiced all summer long and at the end of the summer we went on a 10 stop tour across the west coast ending at Disneyland. It is one of the best memories of my childhood. I believe this early involvement in music helped me to develop my rhythm which carried into being a better dancer and DJ.
In the fall of 1996, I was attending NDSU and took a “social dance” class as one of my electives. In that class I learned the basics of swing, country two step, and waltz… but my favorite was swing. I would tear up any dance floor I could with friends doing all sorts of cool swing moves. In 1998, the big swing craze hit and every time I went out dancing I would get a handful of people wanting to know how I learned to dance and they asked to show them how I did certain moves. Shortly thereafter in January 1999, I started Harmon DanceWorks and taught my first swing class. I have been teaching 3 to 4 dance classes per year ever since. I had also been DJing swing events regularly and doing dance performances from 1999 until 2008.
In 2008, I got married to my lovely wife Allison and planned my own reception which included a reception dance lesson and choreographed first dance. Many of our guests told us it was the best wedding reception they had ever been to. I had been to other receptions in the past and knew I could do a better job than most DJ’s I had seen. A month after I was married Harmon DanceWorks starting booking wedding receptions and we have been growing every year since.
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I lead Vistage CEO peer advisory groups and conduct one-to-one coaching sessions for North Dakota business executives who want to become better leaders, make better decisions, and achieve better results.
The Vistage peer advisory group brings together CEOs from non-competing industries who are serious about professional and personal growth. In the confidential group setting, we challenge assumptions in a non-judgmental manner and empower each other to move our businesses and personal lives forward. The only agenda is to foster each other’s development. It’s lonely at the top, with few people to provide unbiased advice or to hold us accountable. A Vistage group provides a safe place to ask tough questions and drive better results.
Vistage Worldwide is the world’s leading chief executive organization, with over 21,000 members in 20 countries. For more than half a century, Vistage has helped over 75,000 CEOs to grow their businesses, reach financial independence, manage stress, and achieve greater work/life balance.
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We are a breeder of fancy chickens in North Dakota. We raise Bearded Silkies, LF Polish, LF Orpingtons, Serama’s and Call Ducks.
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterschott/
Speaker, Author of “No Bull Ag Tech” – an honest look at ag tech.
Peter grew up on a fourth generation family farm in Kulm, ND. In his past lives he has picked rocks, ran a seed dealership, and implemented ERP software at ag companies across North America. “Implemented ERP software” is a fancy way of saying he helped busy men and women who didn’t know what Windows was learn how to use computers to run a business on one.
Peter is the co-founder of Genesis Feed Technologies, a mobile platform for the animal feed industry. When he’s not in front of his computer he likes to spend time with his wife and three girls. In the remaining hour of the month he will sometimes read a book or workout.
