1 minute read
BRITTANY KENNEDY
Co-Owner
COPPER DOG & MINI GYM
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Product Manager DELTA VACATIONS
“Brittany 's virtuous leadership style and community-focused business plan has led to Copper Dog serving people from all around the world and putting downtown Mandan on the map.”
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF:
Originally from Mandan I was an All-American gymnast at Hamline University and received my undergraduate degree in Business Administration from North Dakota State University in 2007. I went back to school with my Dad and we received our Master’s Degree in Project Management from the University of Mary in 2018. In 2019, I opened Copper Dog and the Mini Gym with my Mom on Main Street in Mandan. Throughout my professional career I have worked for Scheels, the Minnesota Twins, Under Armour and Delta. I love spending time with my family — we are usually chasing our kids around at their various activities, but I also enjoy traveling, running, hunting, and creating new business plans.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?
Growing up a gymnast, I learned early on that there is always room to grow and improve. I am motivated by that opportunity. Whether it’s personally, professionally, mentally or physically, I am motivated to continually improve myself and be a better person.
CHALLENGES IN YOUR CAREER PATH:
I think the biggest challenge is understanding that your career, along with most things in life, may not always be an upward, linear path. For me, working for the Minnesota Twins was a dream job, but a new opportunity came along that was impossible to pass up, so I took it. Two and a half years later, during COVID, that position was eliminated and I needed to find a new path. Entrepreneurship was always in my peripheral, but stepping outside of my comfort zone and getting a little push made it come to life. I can honestly say that years ago, I had never envisioned owning a business with my Mom, but I couldn’t be more proud of what we have created.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER OTHER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS?
Communication is extremely underrated. No matter what profession you choose, communication skills are essential. Network! Connections and mentors are invaluable. The right time is NOW. While education is important, real-world experiences are nearly impossible to replicate. Your job, title or salary doesn’t define who you are.
