Thomas Argubright

Nationwide Sales Manager, Traqnology North America

Staying active is key

Through his journeys as a kid growing up in Oglesby, a student at La Salle-Peru High School, a recipient of a bachelor’s degree in finance and an MBA at Northern Illinois University, and obtaining a master’s degree in international management from the University of Murcia, Thomas Argubright has stayed busy.

His philosophy of staying active and being a part of as much as possible has not changed in his professional life.

“I really like to keep active. I’m always on the move. I like to be involved in my community as well,” said Argubright, who is now 32 years old. “I started as a kid, and I’ve carried on. I played two or three sports each season at L-P. As I got older, I always had one main job and a few side projects.”

Argubright’s main job is being a national sales manager at Traqnology North America, which handles field painting, chemical spraying, aeration, and mowing.

His side jobs are what many would call main jobs as he is the City of Oglesby Commissioner overseeing Oglesby’s finances, a real estate rental and development agent with 19 rental properties, and a co-owner of Mercer’s Rooftop in Oglesby, which opened in the fall.

When he isn’t wearing one of those hats, he is a member of the Knights of Columbus and a volunteer for charity fundraisers.

Argubright goals are to expand each of his portfolios.

“My vision for the future includes expanding my rental portfolio to over 50 units and expanding my business portfolio into other industries,” Argubright said. “I see myself taking on a more managerial role at Traqnology while also being a part of expanding the product line.”

Argubright is happy with his decision to return to his hometown of Oglesby as he believes the Illinois Valley will expand to be more of a tourist destination.

Stephanie Bias General Manager, Camp Aramoni, Inc. Helping grow her family’s business

Stephanie Bias grew up in LaSalle and decided to return to the Illinois Valley to help with her family’s new business, Camp Aramoni, which is a boutique campground and event venue in Tonica. Her role as general manager suits her well, with her work aligning with her educational background and her interests.

“I have always been a creative person, and some of my passions include marketing, food, beverage, design, and producing amazing experiences for others to enjoy. I decided to turn my interests into a career and earned my B.S. in event management from Iowa State University,” Bias, who is now 24 years old and once again living in LaSalle, said.

“Camp Aramoni encompasses every aspect of the hospitality industry: lodging, retail, catering, coffee service, bar service, event management, transportation, marketing, etc. My day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing events, guest experiences, menus, staff, and more. I have played a key role in growing our team from seven to fifty employees in the span of one year. Our plans for expansion only continue to evolve, and I am looking forward to a long, rewarding career at Camp Aramoni,” Bias said.

“Our staff motivates me to be the best version of myself, which includes supporting me to take time off when I need it,” she said. “In addition, my bulldog, Meatball, comes with me to work every day and gives me the energy to power through long days with her snuggles and goofy personality.”

With the help of Bias and the staff, Camp Aramoni received major recognition last year when it was featured on the cover of Midwest Living magazine, which reaches nearly three million people per year.

“This cover story just confirms for me that we are on the right path to success. It has also led to many new reservations and increased business,” she said.