What are the biggest challenges you currently see in the development world?

Economic uncertainty related to financing, jobs, operating expenses and project costs have led to an overall freeze for a lot of groups. The uncertainty coupled with falling values and underperforming submarkets seems to have paused the vast majority of new projects.

What do you think are the biggest construction needs in Minnesota?

We are a housing developer and don't really look outside of that product type, so our view is rather focused, but our market is similar to other markets in that the "missing middle" for housing is still missing. Providing accessible housing for those who do not qualify for affordable housing but can't afford the costs associated with new construction market rate projects is a major need we see in our market.

How do you manage work/life balance?

Our business is heavily driven by new project start-ups. At times when we are pursuing new projects the work/life balance falls out of balance, but in times where we are not pursuing a closing for a new project the work/life balance is more even. I take it as it comes and goes. For me, this is a lifestyle business; it follows me everywhere I go. I like that aspect and have structured my personal and professional schedules knowing this.

What's something most people don't know about you?

I'm an avid team roper. I grew up in western South Dakota and the western lifestyle was always present in what we did -- rodeoing, 4-H, ranching, etc. During the COVID-19 pandemic my daughter started taking horse riding lessons at a local stable and showed interest, so as a family we jumped back in. Now we have 4 horses, some calves, a barn cat and share 15 roping steers with a group of friends.