Looking Ahead: Jessica Ibanez

Jessica Ibanez

Business Development and Technology Sales, Omnitech

What was your first job?

I grew up on a small family farm in Frederick, South Dakota. My first job was helping with chores around the farm. I fed bottle calves, drove tractors, sorted cattle, and did most any odd job my dad could find for me. He valued nature, hard work, finding the humor in all things, and being a good neighbor. I feel that working on the farm helped develop those values in me.

Tell us about your current job?

I work in business development and technology sales for Omnitech, a South Dakota based software engineering company. Omnitech was founded in 1998, and for the first twenty years of its existence, it was focused on providing support to businesses in the eastern part of South Dakota. In 2018, Omnitech opened a second location in Rapid City upon noticing a need for its services in west river. They have a strong focus on honesty and integrity when working with clients, each other, and the communities they serve. I’m grateful to be a part of the Omnitech team. How has 2020 changed you?

The biggest change to my daily life has been the increased need to be adaptable. Whether it’s finding new ways to engage with clients through virtual meetings or attending zoom happy hours with friends. 2020 has definitely pushed technology to the forefront of everyone’s mind and it’s been interesting to see how so many companies and people have adapted.

Why are you excited for 2021?

Traveling is my hobby and my greatest passion. Each year I try to travel to at least one country I’ve never visited. COVID-19 caused all my 2020 travel plans to be postponed and I’m getting a little stir crazy. I’m really hoping that 2021 gives me the opportunity to travel internationally again.

Why do you live in Rapid City?

The quality of life.

I spent a decade living in downtown Minneapolis before moving back to South Dakota a few years ago.

Living in a Minneapolis has its advantages, but it was difficult to feel connected with the community and access to hiking and cross-country skiing often involved a two-plus hour car ride. I have found the people living in the Black Hills to be incredibly kind and welcoming; and I love that I can access great hiking and crosscountry skiing locations within minutes of my front door.