SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) -
The community and lifestyle magazine called Siouxland has come up with a list of the young professionals making an impressive impact in the tri-state area.
They're sharing their secrets to success in a new issue called "The Top 10 Under 40."
At a recent photo shoot, we found out the Class of 2012 is not only climbing the corporate ladder, they're giving back, big time. Here's just a snapshot of how they're spending their time at the top.
They're the new generation of power players. The movers and shakers, the go getters: the top ten under 40, as chosen by Siouxland Magazine.
"They're kind of the creme de la creme right now. The people that are really putting themselves out there," explained magazine editor Susan Fey.
An attorney, a music professor, and even a grandmother top the list. Mary Sterk was a teen mother. Today, she owns one of Western Iowa's largest financial planning companies.
"Going from welfare to wealth management shows people that that's possible," said Sterk proudly.
She has a lot to be proud of. She even pilots her own plane to visit clients.
Tammie Pech travels across the country at a moment's notice as the Regional Communication Officer for the American Red Cross. There's something about Sioux City that always calls her back.
"People say Sioux City doesn't have it, and it really does," Pech explained.
Kyle Kelly, at the age of 34, is already partner in 10 real estate development companies.
"There's always more. There's always more to do," said Kelly.
They're not only climbing the corporate ladder, they care about their communities. In fact, the list of how they give back is just as long as their resumes. Country music fans will know Tony "Michaels" Michalski by his voice. He's the program director at KSUX. But, his volunteer work is fueled by family. His oldest son's autism led to his participation in everything from the Autism Society to the Special Olympics. But, he's also involved in Habitat for Humanity and active with the March of Dimes.
"It gives you some hope that things are going to be better," Michalski explained.
One thing that stands out about the Class of 2012 is that they're all very involved in their community. And just like everyone else they strive to find balance between that involvement, their jobs, and their home life.
"It's not about having time, because none of us have enough time. It's about making time," said Sean Burton, an associate music professor at Briar Cliff University.
"It basically boils down to trying to do my best to put family first, and understanding that my kids are only going to be young once," added Paul Olson, the Sociology Chair at Briar Cliff.
"I'm the first to admit, I don't think I do balance it," said Christie Finnegan, the Director of Marketing at St. Luke's Health System.
Finnegan doesn't sacrifice time at home to stay active in her community. She combines the two by getting her kids involved in organizations like Kiwanis, Sioux City Growth, March of Dimes, and the United Way.
"I'm trying to teach my three children that giving back to the community and making a difference to other people is important," she explained.
This dynamic group's goal is to make Siouxland a place that others want to live.
"They're making a change in the community for the way they want the community to be," added Fey.
"The place can actually become a place that has the amenities to attract somebody like me, if you work at it," said Nathan Kalaher, President of PlaN Architecture.
By sharing their stories, these leaders hope others will follow.
"Find what you like and if you do a little or a lot, it's not hard to be involved," suggested law firm partner Karrie Hruska.
"I think that inspires other people to do good things in their community and do good things in their personal and professional lives," added Camp High Hopes Executive Director Ali Langseth.
"I think people should be aware that even in their success, there's always a place to give back to that community," said Kelly.
They're using their time in the spotlight, not to celebrate their own success, but that of Siouxland.
"I hope it helps reassure people that there are a lot of really good things going on in Siouxland right now," stated Olson.
"Siouxland's a great place to live," said Michalski.
"This community's amazing," Pech said firmly.
To read more about each of the 10 under 40, you can pick up a copy of Siouxland Magazine by Friday at area Hy-Vee Stores.
