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Nick Schommer Kellen Feeney
Megan Suedbeck Ben Buchanan
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Sales
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Jenny Johnson
Jessica Ventzke
Missy Roberts
John Stuber
Editor's Note:
LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR
y the time you read this, the election will have come and gone. An election that I think is safely labeled contentious. People are fired up. Many of us can't seem to understand the other side of things at all. People feel like half the country is misguided and downright wrong. No matter the case, we all need to work to love our neighbors.
When I was growing up, it really didn't matter what political party a person aligned with. You may have disagreed with someone about a topic, but that didn't stop you from being friends. Over the last few election cycles, I have seen that shift dramatically. I have seen family members refuse to talk to one another. I have seen friendships thrown in the garbage. I have seen people disregard entire groups of people as inhumane.
My ask to you the reader is to rise above all of that.
The people you disagree with are people. Their thoughts are the products of their lived experiences and outside influences—should you really hate them for that?
Maybe they're right about some things. Maybe you're wrong about some things. Maybe this country would work better if we respected one another and leveraged our diversity in thought to work together.
Just please love and respect one another. I'm tired of the hate.
Sincerely,
Bis-Man INC! Editor
ARE YOU REALLY FULLY COVERED?
A SAFETY NET - NOT A SUBSTITUTEFOR SECURITY
By NorthStar Technology Group
yber insurance is an invaluable tool in your risk management arsenal. Think of it as one of the many weapons you have against cyber threats. However, there's a widespread misconception that having cyber insurance is enough. The truth is, without a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, your insurance can offer only limited protection.
In this article, we'll help you understand why cyber insurance should be seen as a safety net rather than a replacement for strong security.
UNDERSTANDING
THE LIMITS OF CYBER INSURANCE
In today's business landscape, cyber insurance is a must. However, having insurance doesn't guarantee
a payout. Here are a few things that cyber insurance can't help you with:
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION
Your cyber insurance policy can never fully cover the cost of lost productivity due to a cyberattack. The payouts, in most cases, would be partial and won't be enough for you to recover from the business interruption.
REPUTATIONAL DAMAGE
Cyber insurance can’t help you win back customer trust. It would take a lot of work to repair your organization's reputation.
EVOLVING THREATS
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and your insurance policy might not be able to offer a payout against new tactics.
SOCIAL ENGINEERING ATTACKS
Cybercriminals often trick unsuspecting victims through social engineering attacks. If your business suffers losses due to a social engineering attack, like a phishing scam, you might not be covered.
INSIDER THREATS
Losses resulting from an internal risk are rarely covered by insurance providers. If the breach occurs because of a threat within your organization, your policy provider may not entertain the claim.
NATION-STATE ATTACKS
Some rogue state nations deploy their hackers to carry out cyberattacks in other countries. Many insurance
providers consider such attacks as acts of war and do not cover them.
FIVE STEPS TO BUILD A STRONG CYBERSECURITY POSTURE
Implement these steps proactively to strengthen your defenses:
1. Employee training is critical for building a strong defense against cyber threats. Hold regular sessions and boot camps to educate your team on cybersecurity best practices.
2. Implement strong password policies. Using multifactor authentication will phenomenally improve your internal security.
3. Regularly back up your business-critical data. This will ensure you can bounce back quickly in case of a breach or a ransomware attack.
4. Keep your software and security solutions up to date. Monitor and resolve issues before hackers have an opportunity to exploit them.
5. Think of your network like your castle and do everything to protect it from hackers. Build a strong network security infrastructure complete with firewalls, anti-virus software, and threat detection systems.
BUILD A RESILIENT FUTURE FOR YOUR BUSINESS
To build a strong defense posture, you need a good cyber insurance policy and a robust cybersecurity plan. However, it can be stressful having to juggle the responsibilities of managing your business and implementing a comprehensive security strategy. That's where a partner like NorthStar Technology Group can offer a helping hand.
VETERANS IN BUSINESS
IN OUR YEARLY VETERAN'S ISSUE, WE STRIVE TO HIGHLIGHT VETERAN BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS WHO HAVE CHANNELED THEIR DEDICATION, RESILIENCE, AND STRATEGIC THINKING FROM THE FIELD INTO THE WORLD OF BUSINESS. HOWEVER, WE ALSO STRIVE TO LEARN. THEIR UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES, WHICH ARE SHARPENED BY THE CHALLENGES OF MILITARY LIFE, CAN BE HELPFUL FOR ALMOST ANYONE OUT THERE.
BY BRADY DRAKE
FROM THE MARINES TO NEW BEGINNINGS
JEREMY’S JOURNEY
JEREMY GERMAIN
Josiah Kopp
or Jeremy Germain, the journey to where he is today began long before his time in the Marine Corps. Originally from Vermont, he moved to California as a teenager, where he spent his middle and high school years. It was during these formative years that he met Stephanie, the woman who would become his wife. They dated in high school, but like many young couples, their relationship faced challenges. A forgotten Valentine's Day gift and a turbulent breakup ultimately led to Jeremy moving to Minnesota after a fight with Stephanie's new boyfriend. Little did he know, fate had other plans for them.
Years later, after Jeremy had joined the Marine Corps, matured and with a deeper perspective on life, he and Stephanie reconnected. Their romance rekindled, and they married when Jeremy was in his early twenties, right at the start of his military career. Together, they have built a life that has spanned nearly 20 years of marriage, raising their son, Owen, who is now 17.
Jeremy’s journey into the Marine Corps was driven by a sense of chivalry and purpose. “I thought joining the service was the closest thing to being a knight, like the knights of the round table,” Jeremy said. “I thought it was chivalrous and self-sacrificing, and that's what turned me onto the Marine Corps. Well, that and a bad breakup actually.”
These ideals paired with a lack of direction led Jeremy to join the Marines, where he spent 13 years immersed in a culture of honor, courage, and commitment. For Jeremy, the Marine Corps was everything he had hoped it would be.
“The Marines were the embodiment of all the things that I thought it was going to be. There is a lot of honor in the Marine Corps," Jeremy said. "There was definitely commitment, and there was definitely courage.”
A CAREER FORGED IN THE MILITARY
Jeremy’s time in the Marine Corps shaped him in countless ways, both personally and professionally. He lived in various parts of the world, from Okinawa, Japan to Iraq, and worked with exceptional teams and individuals. During his time in service, Jeremy found his calling as a gunsmith. That role helped him to further sharpen his meticulous attention to detail and ability to finetune instruments for optimal performance. Eventually, Jeremy would use these skills post-military in both CAD design and 3D modeling.
“My time as a gunsmith in the Marine Corps, working with precision weapons
and in competitive settings, taught me to see the details in everything," Jeremy said. "The process of building a weapon, fitting it to an individual, and fine-tuning it to excellence has translated into every high-functioning environment I've been in. It’s a skill I’ve taken with me wherever I go.”
But after 13 years of service, Jeremy began to feel a pull toward something new. The thought of staying for another seven years until he hit the 20 year mark required for retirement didn’t appeal to him; he craved personal growth and new challenges. His body, too, seemed to signal that it was time to move on, as he broke out in full-body hives during his last three months in the Marines—a condition that was never diagnosed but seemed to coincide with his growing desire for change. "I ended
Jeremy (left) with his fellow marines
up with full-body hives for the last three months that I was in the Marine Corps," Jeremy said. "It was never diagnosed, but it was a physical sign that it was time to move on," Jeremy said.
TRANSITIONING TO CIVILIAN LIFE
Upon leaving the military, Jeremy set out to write a new chapter. He channeled his passion for gunsmithing into a business that specialized in hydrographics and custom gun work. He also enrolled in a community college to study manufacturing and production. However, like many transitioning veterans, Jeremy faced significant challenges adjusting to civilian life. His business venture eventually
collapsed, and for three years, he retreated from the world, living in isolation and struggling to find his place in society.
"Eventually, my business and the business partner that I had at the time just fell through," Jeremy said. "So, I lost my ground there for about three years and became a hermit. It was awful. I kind of disavowed everybody that I knew, threw away all my friendships, and started to live on the other side of the clock when the world was quiet. I was just trying to figure out what the hell everything meant.”
During this time of struggle, Jeremy reconnected with a community of friends through online gaming. These friendships, forged over virtual battlefields, provided him with a sense of camaraderie and helped him
weather the storm he was in. Then, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Jeremy and his family—his wife, son, dog, and cat—decided to travel the country in an RV, which allowed him to meet many of the friends he had made online. Their travels eventually brought them to Fargo, where Jeremy met one of his gaming friends in person.
Over 200,000 military personnel transition to civilian life each year.
Jeremy relaxing with his son.
VETERAN TRANSITION
They hit it off, and his friend extended an invitation for Jeremy to return to Fargo when their travels were over. After completing their trip, the family faced a choice: head south to Florida or return north to Fargo. Stephanie preferred stability, so they decided to move to Fargo, a decision that would open the door to a new career.
A NEW CHAPTER IN FARGO
In Fargo, Jeremy took a job at JSM Woodworks, applying his CAD design skills to cabinetry projects. He worked in estimating and software implementation, which allowed him to learn new aspects of the manufacturing process. Although he enjoyed the work, Jeremy soon found himself exploring other opportunities, including a brief stint in sales for the camping industry,
which ultimately wasn’t a good fit. It wasn’t until Jeremy attended a job fair in Moorhead that his path took a pivotal turn. There, he met Bob Roers, the chief operations officer (COO) at Mobile Pro, a live event production company. Bob was impressed by Jeremy’s background in art, CAD design, and 3D modeling and invited him to work as a stagehand at Mobile Pro events. Jeremy became intrigued by the events and entertainment production space, which allowed him to tap into his creative side.
Jeremy began freelancing for Mobile Pro, creating 3D models for events. His work impressed the team, and eventually, Mobile Pro offered him a full-time position in a creative role, where he continued to do 3D modeling and also helped with estimating. His success with implementing a new CRM system
for the company led to a significant career shift—when Bob left Mobile Pro, Jeremy was offered the role of COO.
LESSONS
LEARNED AND LEADERSHIP
As COO of Mobile Pro, Jeremy draws on the leadership lessons he learned in the Marine Corps. His time managing armories taught him the value of building strong teams, understanding individual strengths, and fostering leadership potential.
"My time in the Marine Corps taught me the value of building strong teams and nurturing people's strengths to help them become leaders," Jeremy said. "It’s about finding what individuals love to do, fostering that growth, and watching
Jeremy and his fellow Marines with former late night host Jay Leno.
DID YOU KNOW?
The average length of service for Marines is 7 years.
them thrive. Adaptability is key, but it’s also important to plan for long-term success, not just solving problems as they arise.”
Jeremy acknowledges that while adaptability is crucial, there is a downside to always focusing on short-term solutions and perfection. It’s a lesson he continues to refine in his role as COO, where he strives to strike a balance between perfection and moving and iterating.
MOVING FORWARD
Jeremy’s journey from the Marine Corps to COO of Mobile Pro has been filled with both triumphs and struggles. He faced the challenges of military service, the difficulty of transitioning to civilian life, and the uncertainties of finding his place in the world. Yet through it all, he remains committed to growth, both for himself and the teams he leads.
“I've come to realize that each day might bring a different role—one day I’m a stagehand, the next I’m handling finances or operations. It’s a weird way to exist, but I try to make the most of it and have fun with whatever I’m doing. Life is often chaotic, and we’re all just trying to adapt to it.” SUPPORT
mobileproduction.net
1700 Main Ave W Ste C, West Fargo, ND 58078
701.356.7770
/mobileprofargo
@mobile_pro_fargo
ART WEIDNER
BRANCHES SERVED
AIR FORCE RESERVES, AIR NATIONAL GUARD (ND, WA, MN), AND ACTIVE DUTY (36 YEARS AND COUNTING)
Geneva Nodland
Q: WHAT WAS DEPLOYMENT LIKE?
A: Hot and busy. We did an amazing amount of work on our base in six months, providing bed-down facilities that expanded the capacity of the air base to four times the original. The work kept us from being too homesick. We ended up building a wood-fired pizza oven out of construction residue and spent a lot of time around it in the evenings. I had a senior officer, a deputy group commander, who mentored me when I was in the desert, which was a real blessing. I was able to stay in touch with my family through internet video calls by waking up at 4 a.m. I missed my youngest daughter's first birthday and her first footsteps but we had a great reunion trip upon my return that we still reminisce about today.
Q: WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AFTER SERVICE AND WHAT WAS THAT EXPERIENCE LIKE?
A: After my original stint on active duty, I completed a BS in Mechanical Engineering at NDSU and first started working as a Test Engineer for the Melroe Co. in Bismarck, ND. I fit right in with most of the older engineers, showing up early and leaving late since I didn't have anything else in my life at that time.
Q: DID YOU HAVE ANY STRUGGLES AFTER RETURNING TO CIVILIAN LIFE?
A: Family reintegration after deployment was the only obstacle that took any significant time and effort to overcome.
The deployment did provide a very close-knit community with good camaraderie and a constant focused
ABOUT ART WEIDNER
Art Weidner grew up in Fargo and spent a dozen years away professionally before moving back with his family to raise his children here. Art is "a husband and a father and who trys to juggle a bunch of other stuff." He makes and distributes North Dakota Sweet Crude and Sweet Crude Orange liqueurs in the tri-state region.
A college friend and Weidner grow hops near Sabin, MN for the local breweries. He does a little specialty construction and his family grows and sell a little produce for the local market.
Weidner is a volunteer for Grace Lutheran School and his congregation.
This time of year, his thoughts turn to hunting.
His military and professional careers have taken him around much of the world and have afforded him a lot of opportunities for travel.
"I have worked for some of the largest global corporations and some local companies too," Weidner said. "Engineering is a great foundation for a career."
effort that is very difficult to replicate in civilian life. I'm able to maintain a little of that by continuing to serve as a citizen soldier in the reserves. I enjoy the work as an advisor to Air Forces Central and natural disaster response for Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center where my decades of military and civilian experience are real assets.
Q: CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR COMPANY?
A: Crude Spirits started making North Dakota Sweet Crude liqueur almost seven years ago. It was a Weidner family recipe that started with my great-grandfather Martin Weidner when he immigrated as a German from the Ukraine to western ND in the early 1900s. My brother and I learned how to make it from our father and we would give away bottles to landowners who let us hunt their land. We found that we got more requests than we could supply from my kitchen so I looked into how to scale up and what it would take to make it into a legal business.
It took three years to bring the product to market and another three years to bring our second product, Sweet Crude Orange to market. We are working on a third product but that is going to take a lot longer as it is going to require considerable amounts of ageing.
Q: DID YOU PLAN TO START YOUR COMPANY BEFORE ENLISTING IN THE SERVICE?
A: I have always had a small business or two of my own. I started growing and selling vegetables when I was eight. The businesses have grown, shrunk, and morphed as my available time and opportunities have changed throughout my life. Some businesses failed. I'm always on the lookout for an opportunity to learn, grow, create, and build something new and valuable.
Q: WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAY ON THE JOB LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
A: Whatever the customers need is what the next day looks like. I don't think there are too many normal days unless I'm at a trade show or doing some sampling at a liquor store. Liquor production is done in batches so it isn't every week. The spirits business is fairly cyclical so there are slow and fast seasons which hopefully mesh with the cycles of construction and farming.
Q: HOW DID YOUR FAMILY REACT WHEN YOU TOLD THEM YOU WERE PURSUING SERVICE?
A: Nobody had any doubt. I had been pursuing several different avenues of entering military service. I was awarded two, full ROTC scholarships and an appointment to a military academy before they were all rescinded because they found that I had an incident of eczema in my medical history when I was twelve. A few months later, I decided to check with the ND Air National Guard if they could take me in. When the doctor examined me he couldn't find any evidence of the eczema and so in I went.
Q: WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER ABOUT YOUR FIRST DAY OF BUSINESS?
A: I remember how relaxed the atmosphere was, with low stress and freedom to make more decisions and mistakes.
Q: HAS YOUR SERVICE EXPERIENCE CHANGED YOUR BUSINESS MINDSET?
A: I would say that it definitely inspires me to work harder in my civilian business. I would also say that my business experience has had a greater impact on my military service than the other way around. Every time I see Air Force Civil Engineers from the Guard and Reserve integrate with the active duty units, I see those active duty units benefiting and getting better.
Q: WHAT WAS THE HARDEST CHALLENGE IN OPENING YOUR BUSINESS?
A: Equipment scale-up was the biggest challenge. I partnered with the Mechanical Engineering department at NDSU and have sponsored several student projects over the years. We modified some equipment and designed and built our own in other cases. We are always looking to improve reliability and efficiency so we can keep costs down.
Q: WHAT DOES BEING A VETERAN SYMBOLIZE TO YOU?
A: The Air Force's core values are pretty elemental: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do.
Q: WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST MENTORS?
A: My wife, Cari, is really the only individual mentor I have at this point. There are some organizations that I rely upon for learning and personal growth that make available all sorts of resources and teachers.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER BUSINESSES OUT THERE?
A: Work at making friendships in business. Relationships will always result in long-term growth. The work that I do should always bless you and me.
Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS?
A: Any book by David McCullough, but I'd reccomend "Talent is Overrated" by Geoff Colvin.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS CONSIDERING ENLISTING?
A: I recommend some service for everyone, even if it is only three years.
BRADLEY AUNE
provided by Bradley Aune
CONTINUED
eterans bring unique qualities to the workforce thanks to their diverse experiences and disciplined nature.
Bradley, a former Marine and Army National Guard member, has dedicated her career to advocating for veterans and helping them transition back into civilian life and she currently works as a Veterans Employment Representative for the State of North Dakota. In her presentations to HR associations, she highlights the tremendous value veterans offer, even if they face challenges such as physical disabilities or mental health issues. With reasonable accommodations, these veterans can become incredibly valuable team members who enrich workplaces with their commitment, reliability, and diverse skill sets.
OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT
Bradley’s work centers around assisting veterans who face barriers to employment, which could include physical or mental health challenges, justice involvement, homelessness, and more. Her role is not only to help these veterans find employment but also to connect them with necessary community services and guide them through the process of reintegrating into society as contributing members. She has spent over 16 years working with veterans, many of whom
successfully transitioned into civilian careers through education programs such as the GI Bill, university systems, and trade schools.
THE JOURNEY TO BECOMING A MARINE
Bradley always knew she wanted to be a Marine. As a kid, she played army with her neighbors, but it was the Marines that captivated her. With her intense personality and desire for a challenge, she was determined to make the most of her military career. She chose the Marine Infantry because she wanted to experience the world and not be stationed back in North Dakota. Her time in the Marines was filled with intense experiences—completing Marine School, the climber’s course, jungle survival training, and helicopter boat operations. She even guarded nuclear weapons on an aircraft carrier and survived being shot at. The contrast between these life-altering experiences and returning to a political science class back home in North Dakota challenged Bradley.
"Being a 23-year-old freshman in college and surrounded by 18-yearolds was an adjustment," Bradley said. "I had already been through combat deployments around the world, and then I was in school listening to these kids complain about things that seemed minor to me. It made me feel like an old man at 23. Culturally, it was tough trying to connect with my peers while processing all the life experiences I’d already had. It was definitely something I had to work through."
THE BALANCE BETWEEN CIVILIAN LIFE AND THE NATIONAL GUARD
After earning her degree in psychology, Bradley worked as a
Bradley during her deployment in
juvenile probation officer for 15 years while serving part-time in the Army National Guard. This came with challenges. Guard duties often required her to miss weekends with family, and work would pile up when she returned. Even though her employer was supportive, Bradley witnessed other veterans facing employment challenges due to their service commitments. Her own two-year deployment to Iraq further complicated her career. While her job was held for her, the atmosphere was uncomfortable when she returned, and the transition back to civilian life became increasingly difficult. This experience ultimately led her to seek a new role working with veterans.
A NEW MISSION: SUPPORTING VETERANS
Now working at the North Dakota Job Service, Bradley focuses on helping veterans navigate the benefits and services available to them. She recommends starting with the VA for physical or mental health support, and believes strongly in utilizing County Veteran Service Officers, who are experts in guiding veterans through the benefits
Iraq.
they may not even be aware they have. Bradley draws from her own experiences as she has used many of these community and federal resources to take care of herself, both physically and mentally.
VETERANS IN THE WORKFORCE: THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTORSHIP AND EXPERIENCE
Bradley’s transition from military to civilian life was made smoother by the mentors who guided her. After four years of active duty, she used her GI Bill to get her degree, while continuing to serve in the Army Guard. Mentorship played a key role in her success, and now she seeks to pay it forward by mentoring other veterans. She understands how jarring it can be to go from active duty to a college classroom, but she believes having someone who understands your experience can make all the difference.
SUPPORTING HOMELESS VETERANS AND MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES
Homelessness among veterans is often a result of complex issues, including addiction or mental health challenges. Bradley has seen how many veterans face difficulties during their transition and works with various agencies to provide them with the support they need. Whether it’s finding housing, securing employment, or connecting them with community services, Bradley believes in helping veterans find stability in their lives. She recognizes that housing and work are essential to keeping veterans from falling back into the legal system.
PTSD is a common issue among veterans, and it often intersects with physical conditions resulting from military service. Bradley has personally experienced PTSD and undergone treatment, which gives
her a unique perspective when advising veterans on career paths that suit their physical and mental needs.
"Veterans come from all different backgrounds—some deploy to combat, some don’t—but PTSD is definitely something many face," Bradley said. "Often, there are also physical conditions related to their service, depending on their job in the military. For example, infantry or aircraft mechanics can have hearing impairments because of their work environment, even with hearing protection. These are things we need to coach veterans on, ensuring they get reasonable accommodations in the workplace or in school. I always tell them to find something that suits them physically and mentally. For example, a veteran with PTSD probably wouldn’t do well in a call center where they're trapped and dealing with angry customers. I know, because I went through PTSD treatment myself 12 years ago after combat. I also have a bad neck, so I use special headphones—just a small accommodation that’s easy for employers to provide, or sometimes the VA can even help with that."
FOR HELP WITH EMPLOYMENT
jobsnd.com/job-seeker/veterans
JAYAR KINDSVOGEL
US AIR FORCE (15 YEARS 29 DAYS) BRANCH SERVED
provided by Jayar Kindsvogel
ABOUT JAYAR KINDSVOGEL
Jayar Kindsvogel grew up in Mandan, ND, graduated from Mandan High School, and enlisted in the Air Force right out of high school as a Fighter Jet F-15 Eagle Crew Chief.
He has always been a gearhead who likes to work with his hands.
"Making jets fly was something I truly enjoyed," Jayar said. After 15 years in the Air Force, he was medically boarded and honorably discharged/retired. So Jayar, his wife, and three daughters packed up their house in Las Vegas and moved back to North Dakota. From there, Jayar began working as the lead mechanic on skid steers at Twin City implement in Mandan. He worked there for one year before starting at Center Machine Inc. Eventually, he became the shop manager and finally the owner-operator.
Q: WHAT WAS DEPLOYMENT LIKE?
A: There are lots of mixed feelings that go along with deployments. On one hand, I was excited to go perform the tasks I had trained to do, to defend our country, fly, fight, and win. On the other hand, it is scary, and really hard to be away from your family, wife, and kids and just knowing you are going to miss milestones while you are deployed.
Q: WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AFTER SERVICE? WHAT WAS THAT EXPERIENCE LIKE?
A: I was a skid steer mechanic. After working on Fighter Jets for 15 years, it was kind of a smooth transition to working on construction and farm equipment. Equipment is equipment whether it's farm equipment, construction equipment, or airplane equipment—they all generally work the same. The work transition was smooth except for the environment. There was no comradery like in the military. In
the civilian workforce, you go to work and then you go home. You have nothing to do with the other employees except when you are at work. You do nothing with these other individuals unless it is during duty hours. Which to someone coming out of the military is weird. In the military, you don't really separate your work from home life. You hang out with your fellow work crew in the military.
Q: DID YOU HAVE ANY STRUGGLES AFTER RETURNING TO CIVILIAN LIFE?
A: Oh heck yeah. There are struggles even now after 13 years of returning to civilian life. Togetherness and the one goal that the military has compared to the everyday life of a civilian is hard to get used to.
Q: CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR COMPANY?
A: Center Machine Inc. was founded in 1985. We are a metal fabrication welding shop. We support the general public,
farmers, coal mines, power plants, and government projects around the State of North Dakota. We can fabricate one-off items or production parts. CMI has a welding service truck to perform repairs onsite. One other item that sets us apart from some other shops is we have what's called line boring equipment. This equipment is in a trailer for the portable machining capabilities onsite or in our shop. Line boring is where we take a worn-out hole on say a loader arm where the bucket attaches, we overbore the hole, weld it up, and bore it out to fit the factory bushings or pins. This saves the owners possibly thousands of dollars.
Q: WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAY ON THE JOB LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
A: This is another tough question, there is no normal day when you own and operate a business. Generally, my day consists of helping customers, keeping the employees on task, and ensuring they know what the customers want to be repaired or fabricated. I also order parts and materials, look at incoming jobs, and bid jobs as necessary. I also rush parts to projects when on a time constraint. And I inspect finished products to ensure they're done to the best of our ability and the customer's liking.
Q: HOW DID YOUR FAMILY REACT WHEN YOU TOLD THEM YOU WERE PURSUING SERVICE?
A: My family was excited but my mom was a little scared.
Q: WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER ABOUT YOUR FIRST DAY OF BUSINESS?
A: I was working as the shop manager prior to buying the business in October of 2022. Prior to ownership, I was given the authority to take the reins and kind of run the business to a certain degree. So the first day of ownership was the same as the days prior, except now I had to make sure we could pay the bills. And all the responsibility falls on myself to ensure every one of my employees is able to put groceries on the table.
Q: HAS YOUR SERVICE EXPERIENCE CHANGED YOUR BUSINESS MINDSET?
A: I feel my military experience has set me up to run a business. The training I have received in the US Air Force has set me up for success in the business world.
Q: HAVE YOU FOUND ANY SPECIFIC RESOURCES OR SUPPORT NETWORKS THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY AS A VETERAN?
A: I have to give a huge shoutout to the North Dakota APEX Accelerator Team. They have helped me the whole way in writing a business plan to becoming SBA certified Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business. And working on government contracts. They have been a great team to work with and I continue to work with them.
Q: WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST MENTORS?
A: My mother Sheryl Kindsvogel taught me to never give up no matter how hard it gets and to keep fighting!
Also, my grandfathers, Ernie Seeman and Richard Muth, taught me that a hard day's work is the best medicine.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER BUSINESSES OUT THERE?
A: Just do it, if you have an idea to grow your business and make it better for your employees do it! Your employees will give back to you if you take care of them.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS CONSIDERING ENLISTING?
A: Lock in the job you want, and leave your home state. See the world, have fun.
OWNER, LE PUBLISHING
LISA ELIJAH
BRANCH SERVED
NORTH DAKOTA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD (6 YEARS)
provided by Lisa Elijah
Q: WHAT WAS DEPLOYMENT LIKE?
A: I deployed to Kosovo in 2000, and we were gone for about seven months. I went from being a newlywed full-time college student to a full-time soldier working in construction. My squad constructed seahuts for Camp Bondsteel, poured bridge embankments outside the wire, and pulled guard duty.
Kosovo is gorgeous. Each morning I got to wake up to the stunning view of Ljuboten, a peak in the mountain range between Kosovo and Macedonia. When we arrived in the country, it was January, and we worked through a summer heat wave before going home.
My husband transferred units to deploy with us. So, that was a unique experience. We lived in different buildings with other members of our platoon. We would go to the chow hall together each night if we were both back from our respective job sites. After we were there for several months, a USO center was formed so we could go see movies on the weekends and any comedy acts or bands that visited.
Q: WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AFTER SERVICE AND WHAT WAS THAT EXPERIENCE LIKE?
A: After the deployment, I started working as a phlebotomist at what is now the downtown Sanford Hospital in Fargo. I'd work a shift in the early morning before classes started, and then I worked the night shift on the weekends. The job could be challenging, but I enjoyed the hospital environment, and I appreciated living on my own schedule again.
ABOUT LISA ELIJAH
Lisa Elijah was born and raised in North Dakota. She joined the National Guard after high school and returned home in time to be activated for the flood of 1997. She met her husband during that time, and now they live together outside of Mandan with two of their four kids. Their oldest child goes to college in Wyoming and the next oldest plays volleyball for a college in Maine.
Years ago, after Elijah's third child was born, she left her career as a public health microbiologist to stay home but would pick up part-time work with clinic labs. Eventually, she traded in her lab coat for a laptop and started writing romance books. Once she finished her first book, she never looked back. In December, it'll be ten years since Elijah published my first book.
Q: DID YOU HAVE ANY STRUGGLES AFTER RETURNING TO CIVILIAN LIFE?
A: I wasn't on active duty, so the biggest struggle of returning to civilian life was after the deployment. I was already delayed a semester because of basic training and AIT, and the deployment set me back another semester. Since I wasn't on a normal four-year track, I had to figure out how and when to get all the credits I needed to keep from taking even longer to graduate.
Q: CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR COMPANY?
A: I started LE Publishing shortly after I began publishing my first series. Forming a publishing company has helped me run it as the business it is. I started writing and self-publishing to earn an income, so it never was a hobby for me. Now I have two pen names, almost 85 books and novellas, and all the full-length books have an ebook and print version. I also have 13 audiobooks and will be publishing my 11th German translation.
My main pen name is Marie Johnston, and as her, I've written in different sub-genres of romance. I've narrowed Marie down to small-town romance, with fictional settings located in North Dakota. At the beginning of the year, I started the second pen name, also romance, and it's been fun to compare and contrast different writing and publishing tactics and outline strategies for each name.
Q: DID YOU PLAN TO START YOUR COMPANY BEFORE ENLISTING IN THE SERVICE?
A: I never thought I would be selfemployed. I went to school for microbiology and medical laboratory science, and I have a master's degree in clinical laboratory science. I thought I would work in a lab for forty years.
Q: WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAY ON THE JOB LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
A: My days can vary a lot, but that's one reason why I began this career. I needed a flexible job with four kids. Two of those kids are now away for college, but I still have two, one
in high school and one in middle school. I work from home, and I get as much done during the school day as I can. Then I continue to do admin tasks, answer emails, and attend to social media in the evenings after games or practices are done. Some of my best word count is done while waiting for my kids while they're at practice. I'll often work the weekends, but I'm trying to scale back. It's hard because I enjoy my job, and I don't mind putting a lot of hours in.
Q: HOW DID YOUR FAMILY REACT WHEN YOU TOLD THEM YOU WERE PURSUING SERVICE?
A: My parents were relieved that I would have help getting through college. My brother had joined the Marines, so having a kid enlist was nothing new to them.
Q: WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER ABOUT YOUR FIRST DAY OF BUSINESS?
A: I was so nervous to hit publish that first time. Even now, I still get a case of nerves, but it's because I
know glitches happen and they're out of my control.
Q: HAS YOUR SERVICE EXPERIENCE CHANGED YOUR BUSINESS MINDSET?
A: After deploying and after working in healthcare, I'm probably more laid back when things go wrong. I don't have someone's safety or government equipment on the other end of a mistake or a glitch.
Q: HAVE YOU FOUND ANY RESOURCES OR SUPPORT NETWORKS THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY AS A VETERAN?
A: Thanks to your magazine, I found the Veteran's Business Outreach Center earlier this year. I've been published for ten years, but it really helped to hear Doug Sanzone tell me I've been making beneficial changes in my business and that I'm on the right track. It was so much more than I'd had before.
Q: WHAT WAS THE HARDEST CHALLENGE IN OPENING YOUR BUSINESS?
A: I had zero business knowledge when I began. It's been a long learning curve. Since I'm a solopreneur, there's no one there to chat with or to bounce ideas off of. It's hard to find resources when I'm not sure what I need to be looking for, but I've been able to find various groups of romance authors who are very business-minded and I continually learn from them.
Q: WHAT DOES BEING A VETERAN SYMBOLIZE TO YOU?
A: There's an instant connection with other veterans. A sense of belonging. We could've served in different branches, at different times, and in different places, but we have the military in common, and with that comes a specific familiarity that not many others understand.
Q: WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST MENTORS?
A: Writing and publishing had been such a solitary venture. I still functioned as a stay-at-home mom even while working, so that left me with very little time to make connections. I was fortunate to find legitimate teachers online for whatever I was looking for when it came to marketing and promotion.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER BUSINESSES OUT THERE?
A: One piece of advice I've heard a lot over the years, and that I found important to keep in mind, is to know what only I can do in the business and as soon as I can, hire out the rest. I can't write books if I'm trying to catch up on too many admin tasks, but I can hire an accountant, a personal assistant, a cover artist, etc.
Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS
CONSIDERING ENLISTING?
A: It's important to be informed going into a recruiting office. If you can walk in with an idea of the benefits and bonuses they can offer, you have a better chance at getting the best deal possible, which will only benefit your future in and out of the military. If possible, talk to people who are currently enlisted or who have recently served. Learn what they'd do differently and what they would recommend.
LEADERSHIP
THIS PAST JULY 22-28, FARGO CELEBRATED NAVY WEEK. FARGO NAVY WEEK BRINGS SAILORS FROM ACROSS THE FLEET TO THE AREA TO EMPHASIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF THE NAVY TO FARGO, THE STATE OF NORTH DAKOTA, AND THE NATION. LUCKILY, THAT AFFORDED US THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN A LITTLE BIT ABOUT LEADERSHIP FROM THESE AMAZING INDIVIDUALS.
Josiah Kopp
By Brady Drake
TREY KENNARD
ADVICE ON LEADERSHIP
"I think from a leadership perspective, you have to be honest with yourself and you have to be yourself. You can't be pretending to be someone you are not. If you do that, people will catch on and it will just be exhaustive. I also believe having full transparency is very important. The more open and honest you can be with your people, the better. If you're open and honest, they're going to know why you're doing things and not just think that you're barking orders. I think that builds buy-in. It's also important when leading a team to realize that it's people-centric. If you don't treat people as people and you treat them as numbers or units or resources, no one is going to want to follow you. They're going to do just enough to get by and not lose their job—that's not what you want."
HOW TO BE A GOOD TEAMMATE
"I think the key to a good team is knowing your teammates. It's about knowing what they're good at and what they may struggle with. I also think another part of being a good teammate is communication. I think it's important to communicate openly about the things you have going on in your life. Every few years, you're going to be part of a new team in the Navy and I'll credit my wife with this, but I think it's important to treat every new group like you would a new marriage. You're starting out fresh with new people and you have to get to know your new people and really learn what makes them tick, how they communicate, how they receive information, and how they process information so you can work together to be successful."
ABOUT TREY KENNARD
Commander Kennard found his path to the Navy when he was studying mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech.
ENUMCLAW, WASHINGTON
MIKE RIENZO
ADVICE ON LEADERSHIP
"There are multiple types of leadership that are effective and correct. However, each person has a type of leadership that is the best for that person. And they deserve that type of leadership. So as leaders, we need to learn how to recognize what type of leadership our subordinates need. And if a subordinate needs a type of leadership that we don't excel in or that we don't feel we can comfortably do, it is good to use your peer group and find someone who can interact with that person in a way that will help that person grow and help that person be successful. And, you should not take it as a weakness but rather a strength to ask your peer leaders to help you."
ABOUT MIKE RIENZO
Mike Rienzo has been with the Navy for 24 years.
Rienzo's path to the Navy began with him trying to create a better life for his family. He was married in December of 2000 and his son was born July of 2000. Prior to enlisting, Rienzo was being paid close to a minimum wage salary helping build hydraulic actuators on an assembly line. Once he joined the Navy, he began excelling in life and surpassed E4 within his first year.
EXPERIENCE: 24 YEARS
"The Navy also teaches you to become an intrusive leader, meaning understanding what's going on in the lives of the people that work for you. If a person is late multiple times to work, it is easy to think that they're a terrible worker and not to want them around, but instead you should try to understand that maybe they're dealing with something. Maybe there are home issues and maybe they need something from you so that they can be the outstanding shipmate they could be. The Navy, in particular, is very good at that. The Navy has all sorts of systems to help support you. We have legal help. We have financial help. There are resources for physical health and dieticians. We think it's important to take care of the whole sailer so that they can focus on the mission instead of being worried about all of the other things going on."
HAGERSTOWN, MARYLAND
DAVE GEORGE
ADVICE ON LEADERSHIP
"I think it's important as a leader to know your people. It's important to know their strengths and their weaknesses. Being able to take those attributes that your team members have and use them to accomplish the task and work together as a team is what makes a good leader."
ABOUT DAVE GEORGE
Dave George is currently an Electrician Mate Petty Officer second class. Prior to enlisting, George worked in Social Services until the age of 24.
EXPERIENCE: 4 1/2 YEARS
Starting a business as a veteran can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available that are specifically designed to help veteran entrepreneurs succeed.
VETERANS BUSINESS OUTREACH CENTER OF THE DAKOTAS
The VBOC program provides entrepreneurial development services such as business training, counseling, and mentoring. They assist veterans, service-disabled veterans, and transitioning service members in starting or growing their businesses. The local VBOC in North Dakota is available through the University of North Dakota Center for Innovation.
und.edu/dakotasvboc
NORTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (NDDVA)
NDDVA helps veterans access benefits and programs available to them, including business resources. They offer guidance on various state-run programs and services that can assist veteran entrepreneurs.
veterans.nd.gov
VETERAN
U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION OFFICE OF VETERANS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
This national office offers special programs to help veteran entrepreneurs through loan programs, training, and government contracting. The SBA's regional office in North Dakota can provide local guidance and access to these resources.
sba.gov
PROCUREMENT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER
PTAC helps veteran-owned businesses in North Dakota connect with government contracting opportunities. They offer counseling and assistance with bidding on federal, state, and local contracts.
NaVOBA provides a platform for veteran-owned businesses to connect with larger corporations that want to do business with veteran entrepreneurs. It also helps in getting certified as a veteranowned business, which can open up more opportunities.
navoba.org
BUNKER LABS
Bunker Labs has a presence across the U.S. and provides resources to veteran entrepreneurs through virtual programs and events. They offer an online community, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities designed to help veteran-owned businesses grow.
bunkerlabs.org
RESOURCES
HIRE VETS MEDALLION PROGRAM
The HIRE Vets Medallion Program recognizes businesses, including veteran-owned businesses, that employ veterans. The recognition can be leveraged as a marketing tool to show a commitment to veterans, which could help attract more customers or contracts.
hirevets.gov
BOOTS TO BUSINESS
This is a program through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) that provides training and education for transitioning service members, veterans, and their spouses. It helps them explore business ownership and learn the foundations needed to start and run a small business.
sba.gov/sba-learningplatform/boots-business
SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM
Administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), this program gives special consideration to businesses owned by service-disabled veterans when they bid on federal contracts. SDVOSBs can receive set-aside contracts as part of the federal government's commitment to veterans.
This program is part of the International Franchise Association (IFA) and offers veterans incentives, such as discounts, to help them buy into franchises. Many franchises are eager to bring on veteran owners, making this a great option for those interested in franchise ownership.
vetfran.org
INSTITUTE FOR VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILIES
Hosted by Syracuse University, IVMF provides several programs aimed at veteran entrepreneurs. One of its key offerings is the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans (EBV), which provides world-class training and education for post-9/11 veterans who want to start or grow a business.
ivmf.syracuse.edu
WARRIOR RISING
This nonprofit helps veterans start and grow their businesses through mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. They offer business incubators, funding resources, and hands-on assistance to veteran entrepreneurs.
warriorrising.org
VETFRAN
VETERAN RESOURCES
HIVERS & STRIVERS
This angel investment group funds early-stage startups founded by U.S. military veterans. They focus on businesses led by graduates of U.S. military academies, though they accept applicants from any veteranowned startup.
hiversandstrivers.com
AMERICAN CORPORATE PARTNERS
ACP is a nonprofit that provides one-on-one mentoring to veterans looking to transition into business or entrepreneurship. The organization connects veteran entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders from Fortune 500 companies.
acp-usa.org
THE ROSIE NETWORK
This nonprofit organization supports veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs. It offers training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help veterans and their spouses start and scale their businesses.
therosienetwork.org
VETERANS BUSINESS FUND
The VBF provides funding to veterans to help them start or expand their business. This is structured as a low-interest loan with flexible repayment terms.
veteransbusinessfund.org
VA VETERAN READINESS & EMPLOYMENT
Helps with job training, education, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching.
benefits.va.gov/vocrehab
NATIONAL VETERAN SMALL BUSINESS COALITION
This is a non-profit organization that provides training, networking, and advocacy for Veteran small business entrepreneurs in the federal market to ensure they are procurement ready and have enhanced access to opportunities to start, operate, sustain, and grow competitive and strong businesses serving Federal agencies and other government contractors.
nvsbc.org/mission/
Step into the fascinating world of Pavewise, an upand-coming asphalt software startup that's on the path to success! In this monthly feature, we'll be right there alongside Pavewise, cheering them on as they grow and face various challenges.
From their victories to the obstacles they encounter, we'll witness it all. Get ready to be inspired by their journey as they strive to make a difference in the asphalt industry.
Join us as we hear from the Pavewise team and how they navigate their way to the top!
Brittany Wuori COO/co-founder
Bryce Wuori CEO/co-founder
As the construction industry faces increasingly unpredictable weather, solutions like GroundTruth help keep projects on track, mitigate risks, and protect both workers and timelines. Stay tuned for more on how Pavewise is helping teams build smarter in an everchanging world.
Pavewise’s platform is designed to support the entire construction industry through two core elements working seamlessly together. The first is GroundTruth, which delivers precise, on-site weather data to ensure compliance across all construction projects. GroundTruth helps contractors automate compliance and mitigate weather-related risks with certified, real-time data that keeps projects on track.
The second core element, PavewisePro, leverages this data to boost productivity and project quality, helping crews make data-driven decisions. Together, these two elements provide a comprehensive solution for optimizing project management and minimizing risks in the construction industry.
In 2024, Pavewise has successfully assisted in managing over $7 billion dollars in construction projects across multiple states.
HELP WANTED/ASKS
• Always looking for connections with state DOTs and Infrastructure Agencies.
• Looking to connect with any paving, concrete, dirt contractors or asphalt professionals.
• We are looking for a Marketing Intern to assist with Social Media and other Marketing tasks. If you have a referral or recommendation, please contact Brittany at brittany.wuori@pavewisepro.com
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
• We were officially selected as 1 of 20 ventures for the Creative Destructive Lab-Wisconsin Risk program! Joining the CDL program offers Pavewise expert mentorship, networking, and investment opportunities while aligning with its focus on reducing construction risk through data-driven solutions like GroundTruth.
• Bryce was in Florida two separate times this last month with three presentations at the ISIC in Orlando on construction technology including our software.
• Met with the Florida Department of Transportation to obtain approval for using
Provided by Pavewise
Pictured is one of our hyperlocal weather stations on-site for Sema Construction on a $565 million in Orlando, FL.
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED)
the platform and system for compliance, and they granted our request.
• Bryce appeared as a guest on the HotMix Podcast, hosted by Instrotek.
• We set up lane construction in Orlando, FL, on their $865M turnpike project and then were able to further expand opportunities within their company with another crew from Florida!
• We also were able to set up Prince on their pilot
THE PRODUCT
New Features/Updates:
• *NEW* Mobile First Design
• *NEW* Customizable Weather Impacts
Weather impacts for temperature, wind, and rain can now be customized and set on a per-project level, allowing for quicker, simpler, and more useful insights about upcoming and past weather.
• Updated Weather Notifications
Notifications related to weather impacts can be set on a per-project level, where users can choose to get email
UPCOMING EVENTS
• DirtWorld in San Antonio, Texas
• CDL-Wisconsin
KUDOS
Thank you to Emerging Prairie and the Prairie Capital Summit team for the amazing event and including Pavewise.
Thank you to Victor from M25 for taking the time to
Women You Should Know
Mary Anderson
Executive producer, Cowboys & Butterfly Kisses
By Ciarra Beckstrand Empowered by Ladyboss Lifestyle
Photo Courtesy of Beverly Unrath
In a world of textbooks and lectures, Mary Anderson found life's best lessons in watching others. Growing up with 13 siblings on a small farm near Powers Lake, ND, she was deeply influenced by her mother, Catherine. Her mother's life showed perseverance, sacrifice, and endless love. Now, as Mary works on producing a documentary, she wants to share her mother's legacy with the world.
By day, Mary is the executive director at ABLE, Inc. in Dickinson, ND, a role she has held for 22 years. But what many don’t know is that, in her spare time, she’s an aspiring singer, songwriter, playwright, and author. A poignant part of her story is her work on Cowboys & Butterfly Kisses, a documentary that follows her ranching family's triumph over tragedy through love, loss, organ donation, and a legacy of perseverance left by her mother.
“This documentary isn’t just about honoring our mother’s memory,” Mary reflected. "It's about using those hardwon lessons. They can turn challenges into triumphs and can inspire others to do the same."
The Healing Power of Storytelling and Music
Mary’s childhood held typical sibling dynamics and extraordinary responsibilities. By the age of nine, she was out helping with cattle work and assisting in the ranch’s artificial insemination processes.
“Our farm required a massive workforce,” Mary said. “With so many siblings, we filled that workforce, and all had a part to play in order to keep things running.”
Several siblings found their passion in ranching and went on to establish their own ranching operations in the Powers Lake and Palmyra, Missouri areas. However, farm life had its share of tragedies for the Anderson family. Of the original 14 siblings, 12 are still alive. One brother died in infancy, and another, Jeff, passed away in a farming accident in 1974.
“That loss was devastating,” Mary said. “But it brought us closer. We learned not to take each other for granted. Our mother’s resilience and
courage to keep going is what held us together.”
More heartbreak followed. In 2006, Mary’s 22-monthold nephew, Tucker, died after battling two forms of Histiocytosis, despite two bone marrow transplants. In 2011, her 16-year-old nephew, Chase, died from complications with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He left his legacy through organ donation. In 2014, her brother Keith battled idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, requiring a double lung transplant.
These experiences shaped Mary’s perspective on life and her work. She knew these stories were important and would resonate with others who had faced similar struggles.
In times of tragedy, Mary found solace in horseback riding and music. She used songwriting to process her grief.
“Writing songs helped me articulate my pain,” she said. “It was therapeutic.” Five of her original songs are now featured in the documentary, offering a way for others to connect with the themes of love and loss.
The Birth of a Documentary
As Keith awaited his lung transplant, the seeds of the documentary began to take root. Lyrics from one of Mary’s songs, of which only she knew – “Only you know who I am, where I am going, and where I’ve been” – played in her mind. A series of divine coincidences convinced Mary to move forward with the project. First, she heard those same words from her lyrics spoken in a wedding ceremony. Then, around that same time, her father’s 94-year-old classmate persistently urged the family to share Catherine’s legacy of pushing on even when the going’s tough; stating to them that she “instilled hope.”
Creating the documentary has been an emotional journey for the entire family.
“Stories and shared experiences connect us and allow healing to take place,” Mary said. "Interviewing my family has brought us closer, and our family’s legacy of perseverance will inspire others.”
To bring the project to life, Mary teamed up with Gina Footh of Lostwood Media in Stanley, ND. However, they faced challenges, including a lack of grant funding. Still, determined to share these important stories, they pressed on.
After compiling and editing hours of footage, the documentary is finally taking shape.
“It’s been tough balancing a full-time job with this project,” Mary admitted. “But it’s worth it. Every step is a testament to our commitment to see this project through.”
The Power of Partnerships
Cowboys & Butterfly Kisses features contributions from talented North Dakota artists, including Dr. Anthony Rohr, Nicole Jorgenson-Biwer, Kayo Grubb, Breanna Wheeler, and Gina Footh. Each artist added their unique voice to Mary’s songs, helping to bring the documentary to life. Looking ahead, Mary is excited about what’s to come.
“I’ve been lucky to work with some incredibly talented people,” she said. “But I know there’s more we can do with the right partners. I’m looking forward to telling more impactful stories and creating meaningful work through my creative pursuits.”
The Cowboys & Butterfly Kisses family premiere is set for March of 2025, with community premieres and streaming to follow in April.
Mary’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering belief in the power of family and faith. Her work and creativity inspire others. It shows that, even in tragedy, we can find strength, hope, and a way to push forward.
Want to know when and where Cowboys & Butterfly Kisses will premiere? Visit:
From Service to Success: Leveraging Military Skills in Small Business Ownership
By Michael Danielson, Veterans Business Outreach Specialist
About the VBOC
The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) program is designed to provide entrepreneurial development services such as business training, counseling, and resource partner referrals to transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses interested in starting or growing a small business. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has 22 organizations participating in this cooperative agreement and serving as VBOCs.
In recent years, a notable trend has emerged across the United States: military veterans are increasingly transitioning from their roles in the armed forces to become successful entrepreneurs. This shift is not merely a career change; it reflects the unique skills, resilience, and leadership qualities that veterans bring to the civilian business world. As they apply their training and experience to small business ownership, veterans are not just building personal success stories but also contributing significantly to America’s economy.
Transitioning from military to civilian life is often a very challenging journey for most veterans. However, many have found success through translating their military skills into the language of entrepreneurship. The very attributes that made them effective service members such as discipline,
Photo Courtesy of VBOC of the Dakotas
strategic thinking, teamwork, and leadership are incredibly valuable in the realm of business ownership. According to a 2022 report by the Small Business Administration (SBA), veterans are 45% more likely than non-veterans to become entrepreneurs. This statistic underscores a significant trend: veterans are not only starting businesses at higher rates but also are often more successful in their ventures than their non-veteran counterparts.
Veterans possess a unique skill set that directly aligns with the demands of running a small business. Leadership is one of the most prominent skills veterans bring to the table. Formal leadership training is ingrained into every service member from the moment they start basic training until they hang up their uniform for the last time. Whether a veteran served one 4-year enlistment, or they retired after a 30-year career, they completed numerous tactical and strategic leadership training courses. Military training emphasizes the importance of leading teams in high-stakes situations, enabling veterans to manage stress and make quick, informed decisions; skills that are crucial in a business environment. Additionally, the military instills a strong sense of discipline and work ethic, with veterans accustomed to setting goals, adhering to schedules, and maintaining high levels of accountability— qualities essential for any entrepreneur. Strategic planning is another critical skill; veterans are trained to analyze
lson, Veterans Busines
situations, assess risks, and develop strategic plans, allowing them to think critically and plan effectively when navigating the complexities of running a business. Resilience is also a key attribute learned in the military, where individuals are prepared to face adversity and bounce back from unavoidable setbacks. The resilience learned from military service is particularly beneficial in the uncertain world of entrepreneurship, where challenges are inevitable. Lastly, veterans understand the importance of teamwork, having learned that collaboration and communication within a team are vital. These skills facilitate better employee relations, customer service, and partnership development in a business context.
Like their non-veteran counterparts, prior military service entrepreneurs encounter all the challenges that naturally accompany the entrepreneurial journey. Specifically, access to capital remains a significant hurdle for most business owners. While there are programs specifically designed to help military veteran business owners prepare before approaching potential lenders, many veterans may not be aware of these resources or may struggle to navigate the application processes. Additionally, veterans frequently find it difficult to adapt to the more informal, less structured environment of
civilian business compared to military life. The transition can be overwhelming, and the lack of a clear chain of command can often lead to increased levels of stress for the transitioning service member. Recognizing these unique challenges, various organizations and government initiatives have emerged to support veteran entrepreneurs. The SBA Office of Veterans Business Development provides resources, training, and counseling services specifically aimed at veterans looking to start or grow their businesses. Veteran Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) offer business planning assistance, mentorship, and access to funding sources tailored to veterans. Bunker Labs, a national network of veteran entrepreneurs, provides programs and resources that help veterans connect with each other and access business training. Local chambers of commerce often have programs aimed at supporting veteran-owned businesses, offering networking opportunities and resources specifically designed for the veteran business ownership community.
The contributions of veteran entrepreneurs extend beyond personal success; they significantly impact local and national economies. According to the SBA, veteran-owned businesses employ approximately 5 million people and generate over $1 trillion in annual sales. By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among veterans, communities can stimulate economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, veteran-owned businesses often prioritize hiring fellow veterans, creating a ripple
effect that supports the veteran community. This not only aids in reducing unemployment among veterans but also helps ease their transition into civilian life.
Moreover, as veterans start businesses, they often become engaged in their communities in ways that go beyond their entrepreneurial efforts. Many veterans leverage their experiences to mentor others, participate in local initiatives, and contribute to charitable causes. This engagement can lead to stronger community ties and increased support networks, further benefiting local economies.
As more veterans seek to apply their military skills in the realm of small business ownership, they help shape the entrepreneurship landscape in America. With the right support and resources, these former service members can build successful ventures that not only benefit themselves but also contribute to their communities and the economy at large. In a country that values the service of its military members, it is essential to recognize and support the entrepreneurial spirit that many veterans embody. By investing in their futures as business owners, we honor their past sacrifices while paving the way for a prosperous future for all.
As veterans continue to break barriers and redefine success, their stories remind us that the skills acquired while serving can translate into remarkable achievements in civilian life. With resilience and determination, they are not just
veterans; they are entrepreneurs, leaders, and vital contributors to the American economy. Through their journey, they exemplify the power of perseverance and innovation, showing that the transition from military service to entrepreneurship can create not only personal success but also foster community growth and economic resilience. As we support these veterans in their entrepreneurial endeavors, we ultimately contribute to a stronger, more vibrant economy that benefits everyone.
