2013

Presented by

OLD PHONE COMPANY TECHNOLOGY SLOWING YOU DOWN?

COMCAST BUSINESS DRIVES BUSINESS. Visit business.comcast.com or Call 800-501-6000

Offer ends 9/30/13. Limited to new Business customers. Not available in all areas. Two-year contract required. Requires subscription to Business Internet at an additional monthly charge. Equipment, installation, taxes, franchise fees extra. Call for restrictions and complete details. Comcast © 2013. All rights reserved.

Drive your business with Internet that has download speeds up to 5x faster than DSL. Sign up now and add phone and TV at our best price. $3490SIGN UP FOR FAST INTERNET AND ADD PHONE AND TV FOR JUST

MORE PER MONTH

JOIN COMCAST BUSINESS FOR SMB TECH WEEK, AUG. 12-16Participate in a virtual discussion to learn how technology can help you grow your business. Visit business.comcast.com/TechWeek13 for details.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

2013

PRESENTED BY

CONTRIBUTING SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

EVENT SPONSORSPhotos by Dane Gregory Meyer - DG StudioStories by Business Examiner Media Group

Business Examiner, delivered every other Monday, is the only newspaper in its coverage area dedicated solely to informing and supporting the South Sound business community. Reach us at BusinessExaminer.com, by calling (253) 404-0891 or by mail at PO BOX 1575 Tacoma, WA 98401-1575.

The late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher once said of achievement and challenge, “Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's a day you've had

everything to do and you've done it.”

The 40 Under Forty program recognizes the achievements of young South Sound leaders who, much like Margaret Thatcher described, have everything to do and are doing it now. With these awards, we not only celebrate success

and achievement to date, we also look forward to the bright future these young professionals represent for our community.

We thank the Business Examiner Media Group for supporting and recognizing the importance of young leaders to a healthy and vibrant South Sound through

the 40 Under Forty program.

We also thank and recognize each of the 2013 40 Under Forty nominees for the hard work and dedication to excellence that these awards represent.

Congratulations to each of the 2013 40 Under Forty honorees on a job well done!

Richard G. Phillips | Angelia D. Wesch | Heather L. Burgess

INTRODUCTION

Schramm Marketing, LLC

Describe your career path.My career path is to get my AFSC Certificate. In order to achieve this, I will need to take college courses and earn an Associate’s degree. I plan to then work towards getting my Bachelor’s degree, with the goal of being an officer.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I raised over $5,000 in under three months for the CFC of South Puget Sound. I also made 100 percent contact with all members in my “fight for the cause.”

How did you earn your first dollar?As a young child, I began going to the grocery store and helping people unload their grocery’s at ALDI, which is a grocery store. In return, people would allow me to have the quarter when returning the shopping cart for them. This, along with tips, is how I made my first dollar.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?The importance of time management. I have also learned the importance of leaving early in order to arrive early.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?Most people would be surprised to learn that I am bilingual. I can read, write and speak Spanish fluently.

What are you most passionate about?I am most passionate about giving my all to the Air Force, and about building a solid foundation for my family.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success is accomplishment through perseverance when facing everyday trials in life, no matter how difficult they may be. I will know when I have made it when I am able to mentor others in my same career.

Who was your mentor, and how do you plan to mentor someone else?My mentor has been Major Sgt. Riffle. I plan to mentor someone else by being there for them when they need it, whether it’s personal or work-related. It would be my personal goal to help bring out the best in them.

What has been your biggest challenge and how was it resolved?My biggest challenge has been learning how to manage my time and keeping my priorities in order. One thing that has helped has been making a written list of what needs to be done in a prioritized order.

How did you earn your first dollar?I was in middle school. My dad made me mow the lawn. While I was mowing I noticed how long the neighbor’s grass was. After I finished mowing our yard, I dragged the mower to the neighbor’s yard and offered to mow it for $10. I made $40 that day by doing three more yards afterwards.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?Like a lot of young men determined to make their mark on the planet, I began life being very goal-driven. This isn’t a bad thing, but it can become a bad thing when our desire to meet objectives overrides the relationships we keep with people around us. I wish I would have learned earlier that relationships matter more than objectives. The goals and accomplishments of a lengthy career can be impressive, but I believe the true impact of our lives is better measured by the legacy and relationships we leave behind.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I am the most proud of the young men I’ve mentored in my life. Patrick McDonell was a student of mine while I was at MDC. Born and raised in the Hilltop neighborhood, Patrick was involved with gangs early in his life. During his senior year of high school, his father passed away. I was given an opportunity to walk alongside of him during this difficult time. Since then, Patrick has gone on international missions trips to Cambodia, become a teen mentor to other young people, and currently works at Giaudrone Middle School. Being directly involved in the lives of people like Patrick and their development from young gang-banger to an adult who builds up others is something I’m very proud of.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?Although I may be somewhat quiet or reserved in large group settings, I have a completely different onstage persona. In fact, public speaking is one of my favorite things to do. I love rallying others around a new idea or new concept, and creating important conversations about important topics

What are you most passionate about?I believe that everybody, no matter where we live or work, has a right and responsibility to bring about greater justice in this planet. Many people become so desensitized to injustice or become so hopeless in seeing change that they give up on simple opportunities to make a difference. I’m passionate about people finding a worthy cause and doing something about it. It doesn’t always have to be a large or dramatic program to make a difference. Some of the best changes the world has seen have come about by normal people who live their everyday lives trying to do the right thing.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I am proud of the success that I have always found in my professional career. As an educator, I was frequently recog-nized for my teaching talent and lifted up to take leadership roles throughout the district. As a coach, I had winning records and championship runs, as well as being recognized as a Coach of the Year. As an athletic director, I guided growth, success and recognition for the university I worked for, as well as receiving honors like Athletic Administrator of the Year. At the Chamber, I lead a team that continual-ly breaks records for growth and revenue. I’m proud that my competency and talent have provided me the opportunities that I have had, and that I also have the raging self-confidence to know that I could do anything that I wanted.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?Years ago, in a moment of frustration with some employees, my boss and mentor shared with me a great piece of advice. He told me to remember that not everyone works like me, meaning that not everyone has my work style or drive, and that I need to meet people where they are and value their strengths and weaknesses.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?Oh, there are lots of things that would sur-prise you. Most people have to pick their jaw up off the floor after I tell them that I was a stadium cheerleader. Others are shocked to hear that I’ve appeared on two reality T V shows; the footage has been left on the cutting room floor.

What are you most passionate about?Hardest question. I am passionate about many things, but ultimately I care about making sure I live a life that makes me happy. In order to do this, I need to make an impact on my community, my environ-ment and my professional success.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I think, given my personality, I’ll always be pushing myself for success and will redirect myself to another challenge to fulfill my competitive streak. I’m not sure if I will ever recognize “making it.” Defining success for me today is making a positive impact, growing as a professional and having a good time along the way. I hope that this definition will continue to be ap-plicable throughout my professional and personal life.

How did you earn your first dollar?The origins of my first dollar are a bit hazy, but I would refer back to the sum-mer I was 6 or 7 when I decided to “prac-tice” for Halloween. I convinced by best friend Robbie to dress up in our Hallow-een costumes and practice trick-or-treat-ing. No one expected trick-or-treaters in July and were obviously unprepared. As a result, we brought in a decent amount of cash that day, as it was the “default” treat. I learned very quickly that if you surprise and entertain people, you might just reap some great rewards.

Describe your career path.After high school, I joined the U.S. Army and served three years on ac-tive duty and three in the Washington state National Guard. After the Army, I spent seven years doing environmental cleanup, restoration and construction management. In the middle of that time, I took four years off from career work to complete my AA degree and most of my Bachelor’s of Science degree. During my college years, I also worked in the service industry and with youth serving non-profits, including running all programs for a Boy Scout Camp for three summers. For the past six years, I have worked at TOGETHER!, a youth-serving non-profit focused on substance abuse prevention, where I have been the executive director for the past three and a-half years.

What are you most passionate about?My passions in life are people (especial-ly kids) and the environment. All of my working life has focused on one or the other, or like my work at TOGETHER!, focused on the interactions of kids in their environments.

What have you done that has made you most proud?My proudest accomplishment was selec-tion as an At-Large Delegate to rep-resent the State of Washington at the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. It was a grueling process with multiple steps where I was unsuccessful at the local and regional levels. Finally, through perseverance, I was selected out of more than 400 applicants as one of four males to represent the entire state at the DNC, joining a delegation of 100 people.

How did you earn your first dollar?My first job was delivering papers for the Everett Herald. In middle school I regularly filled in on multiple routes, along with my own, or rode with a manager to do 10 or more routes via car. This work grounded into me the good work ethics of being independent and knowing the value of customer service.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?The value of a four-year college degree. This is something I plan to finish in the next 10 years of my life. I am only the second person in my family to complete any type of degree, ever. It has posed a challenge to advancement and respect along the way in my career. When I am able to achieve this, I believe it will open up many more doors for me.

WILLIAM BEHLUnited Way

MYRON BERNARDTacoma Youth for Christ

LYNNETTE BUFFINGTONTacoma-PC Chamber

JIM COOPERTOGETHER! Lacey

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?They would be surprised to learn that I am a sound engineer and, to supplement my income in the past, I have spent nights and week-ends mixing bands and setting up sound systems.

What are you most passionate about?I am most passionate about the outdoors: hiking, snowboarding, tennis cycling, running. Anything that gets me outside and active sparks my passion.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Chairing the Rotary #8 Youth Ex-change Committee as their Youth Exchange Officer has been an amazing experience. I am currently starting my third year of my hope-fully lifetime commitment to In-ternational and local Rotary Youth Exchange. Oh, and my first skydive that I took last month in Moab, Utah made me pretty proud.

How did you earn your first dollar?My first dollar was earned manag-ing a very profitable neighborhood lemonade stand. Our stand loca-tion was carefully chosen on the most visible corner in our neigh-borhood that was good for both bike and car traffic. We spent time choosing only the best lemonade product that our parents’ cabi-nets had to offer. We also made sure that our parents knew how important it was for us to get our stand up and running early prior to any competition stands that might arise.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned ear-lier in your career?Work-life balance. Learning the importance of working to live not living to work has made all the difference both personally and professionally.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success to me is being completely and internally happy with who you are, what you have achieved, and confident in the knowledge of where you are going in life. Outside of my long-term goals, I want to wake up every day with the feeling that I am right where I am supposed to be. Success is definitely, for me, a state of mind.

How did you earn your first dol-lar?One year, when I was about 5, my grandmother offered to pay me to pick up the walnuts in her yard. I talked her into a nickel per walnut. She accepted, figuring I’d lose interest pretty quickly. I was out there until it started getting dark, and turned in a hefty bill. She honored it.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Discovering that it’s never too late to try something new. In my 30s, I’ve learned to run, traveled around Europe for a year, and now I’m learning to swim. My life now is so different from what it was 10 years ago that I hardly feel like the same person. I’m also proud to have run Exit133 for a year and a half now.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I’ve never run a marathon. In fact, I’m signed up for my first half mar-athon this September. As one of the organizers of Tacoma Runners, a lot of people assume that I run marathons all the time, and put on crazy mileage every week.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned ear-lier in your career?Sometimes it’s perfection isn’t necessary. I’m a bit of a perfection-ist. That can be a great strength in a lot of situations where the details matter, but I’ve learned over time that sometimes you get to a point where you’re not fixing anything, you’re just fixating. And that’s when it’s time to call it a job well-done and move on to the next challenge.

What are you most passionate about?Treating others with respect and equality.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”For me, that will mean that I’ve found a career where I can be useful to others on a daily basis, working on improving the commu-nity every year, and, when I retire, I can truly say I’ve made the world a better place.

What have you done that has made you most proud?In May, I completed my MBA at Pacific Lutheran University. In my undergraduate program, there were so many times when the journey seemed completely unattain-able. The privilege of earning a master’s degree seemed so far out of my realm of possibilities. In my typical fashion, I worked full time, was maintaining my investment projects and volunteering with various organizations in the community at the same time.

How did you earn your first dollar?My dad worked in aerospace manufactur-ing nuts and bolts. I think I was 7 years old, and my mom wanted a single day of peace and quiet so she sent me to work with Dad. Keeping your severely ADHD son from destroying the office is a chal-lenge. So there I sat with a box of bolts (it seemed like there were a million at that time). It was my job to go through the box and look for any cracks in the head of the bolt. Well, there were enough bolts to keep me busy for a good 5 hours, and I think I earned $5. One week later there was news of a plane crash on TV; my dad, having a soulless sense of humor, turns to me and says, “Are you sure you checked those bolts carefully?” I am still trauma-tized to this day!

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?Listen 80 percent of the time, talk 20 per-cent of the time. A simple rule of thumb at the core of the best leaders I have encountered.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I have a baby grand piano taking up the dining area in my condo that always seems to shock people when they see it for the first time — and then, they are even more shocked when they ask if I play and I tickle the ivories with some Chopin or Grieg. I’m not an artsy person by ANY means, so the fact that I have studied classical piano seems to catch people off guard.

What are you most passionate about?I moved to Tacoma from Southern Cali-fornia three years ago, and I have fallen in love with this beautiful city. In my three years here, I have become connected with some amazing organizations, giving me the opportunity to serve, volunteer, and give back. These organizations and schools play such a critical role in serving many that are in need of additional sup-port. I spent 30 years in Southern Califor-nia, and the minute I moved to Tacoma, I realized that I was home.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success is when you look in the mirror and completely connect with the person that is looking back at you. You can look yourself in the eye and say, “I have given 150 percent in every aspect of my life: I work hard, I love graciously and I give back whenever possible. I own my mistakes and learn from them, and I am committed to always keeping an open heart and mind so that I can continue to grow and improve.”

Describe your career path.For me, my first job in banking was just that: a job. I started as a teller, but it didn’t take long to realize my role was a vital part of making business work in a community. I quickly saw how Colum-bia Bank’s willingness to lend enabled customers to achieve their dreams, and that was inspiring. I’m a creative person, so naturally I moved into marketing and worked my way from a coordinator to a senior vice president over the course of seven years.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I am most proud of being tapped to lead the marketing division of one of the largest banks headquartered in the Northwest. As one of six members of Columbia Bank’s strategic management group, I am also proud to be responsible for delivering on the bank’s executive strategic plan.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?Patience. As a young professional, you are eager and want to see the impact of your efforts immediately. You expect to conquer the world’s greatest problems in a week. Change and progress take time, and if you are diligent and remain focused, you’ll get there.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I’ve performed professionally in nearly a dozen theatrical productions through-out the Puget Sound. I have always been involved in theatre since I was a young child. For a period of about five years, I did at least three shows a year. While I don’t have as much free time as I used to, I enjoy supporting local theatre.

What are you most passionate about?I feel visible LGBT role models in the banking industry are very difficult to find. I am most passionate about serving as a successful and open role model to LGBT youth in my community.

What has been your biggest challenge and how was it resolved?Columbia Bank’s financial strength has allowed us to acquire six other banks over the past three years, including the recent acquisition of West Coast Bank. My greatest challenge has been strengthening our brand image and keeping up with consumer demands for access through new technology, all while simultaneously providing a positive experience for thousands of customers through transition. Overcom-ing this required embracing technology and the rapid automation of everyday tasks to free up resources on my team. I’m proud that we’ve been able to stay true to Columbia Bank’s mission: to be the premier community bank in every market we serve.

ALI CRISSFinancial Insights

SARAH CUTTINGExit 133 LLC

KEITH DASHOFYMilgard Manufacturing

DAVID DEVINEColumbia Bank

Set up a FREE consultation appointment TODAY

253.926.2440 | www.actvp.com

Get your business on fast forward

Ideas • Videos • Results

▶▶Let A.C.T. Build

Your Corporate Video

• We know your target audience

• We catch your vision and make it visual

• We create your video with cutting-edge technology

• We deliver your product on time and on budget

425.255.6992 | info@hardcastleentertainment.com

www.hardcastleentertainment.com

Serious Talent Celebrating ‘40 Under Forty’ Honorees

Commencement Bank salutes all of the 2013 ‘40 Under Forty’ honorees that have such a positive impact on our community.

Whether their path started with a lemonade stand, washing cars, babysitting or delivering newspapers, we raise our glass to their acheivements.

Their dedication to the community embodies our bank’s core values, and aligns with our vision for the future of the South Sound. For high-quality banking service and innovative business solutions call or stop by our local branch.

253.284.1800 commencementbank.com1102 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA 98402

What have you done that has made you most proud?Creating the program that allows our clients to make their own path. I developed the “Chart Your Own Course” program. This program al-lows our seniors to make their own decisions about their long-term care while guiding the family with love and compassion.

How did you earn your first dollar?My first dollar earned with Cay-Care was serving a wonderful 100-year-old woman who was the daughter of a slave. Her goal was to have care in a home that would serve the southern food she was so accustomed to, and since she was blind, have someone read to her. The next four years, she lived in just that kind of place thanks to my help. She was a true blessing to me.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?The learning never does stop. I am “seasoned” now, for sure, but if I had to learn just one thing sooner, it would be to stop and take some time for myself. I suppose learning to say “no” was a lesson that took time to learn.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?Well, that is a funny thing. I was a contestant on “The Price is Right” when I was in college. I would say that would surprise people. I also paint, and few people know that about me.

What are you most passionate about?What I am passionate about is easy: the elderly and their fami-lies. I have one other very strong passion: I am the mother of three premature children. I am passion-ate about advocacy for all ages in health care. Without proper advo-cacy, a loved one could suffer.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success is a journey, not a destina-tion, so I will likely never feel I have “made it.” I feel successful when I am thanked for the help I provide. Having a sense of peace about what I do also gives me a feeling of success.

How did you earn your first dollar?My first dollar was earned somewhere in the suburban sprawl of Sacra-mento building fences as a summer job before I was old enough to work. My first dollar in Tacoma was made from an event I threw at a local bar. Our first dollar as a store was made from Reuben McKnight, the Historical Preservation Officer for the City of Tacoma.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Choosing community versus choosing myself. San Francisco and New York were both very self-focused. I chose Tacoma to serve this community, so I guess (finding) that maturity to want to serve and the realization I need community makes me most proud. Since I have been here, I have met the woman I will spend my life with and fallen in love with the history and cul-ture and future of this city. I went into business with my dear friends to be a part of this economy and community and serve the men of this city. Lastly, I have been appointed and currently serve on Tacoma History Society Board of Directors, Landmarks Pres-ervation Commission and Tacoma Arts Commission. I want to exist to play my role in the future of this city.

What are you most passionate about?People. I am in this business to build relationships that result in under-standing. I then take that understand-ing and translate that into clothing that makes you feel the best version of yourself. I love history as it pertains to a people’s story; I love culture and art as it pertains to their expression.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I think the circumstances I grew up in. My mom was 22 and my dad was 60 when I was born in Nevada. From there, the first few years of my life were spent on the back of a Harley Davidson near Oakland, California. My young mom was dating a Hell’s An-gel. I guess the age difference of my parents — and being raised with Hell’s Angels — would surprise some.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success is going to be unique to the individual. I focus my time, as it pertains to success, on the present moment. I want to know that I have made the most of each day on every level possible. I don’t know what the future holds, so as long as I am passionate about each morning and feel accomplished each evening. That’s how I know I am doing it. As a company, success will be measured by how many people we have helped become more themselves. Hope-fully, I will no longer be around when Feather & Oar is succeeding at the rate I know it can. Legacy will be the measure of success for Feather & Oar.

What are you most passionate about?My personal mission to inspire mil-lions of people.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Learned that I do not always have to be right.

How did you earn your first dollar?Aside from my parents, from my babysitting company, inspired by The Babysitting Club books. My first “real” job was at 15, at Apollo’s Pizza and Pasta where I worked as a busser, hostess, cook, and waitress for many years.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?This too shall pass. Enjoy the good stuff and don’t sweat the tough stuff, because none of it will last forever and it is all getting you to where you need to be. And, when you start out, be as fiscally conservative as pos-sible. It is much easier to run a lean business than to pay off debt.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I used to view success as a destina-tion. Being a high achiever, that left me dissatisfied, because no mat-ter what I accomplished, I always came up with a bigger goal I had yet to achieve. Now I view success as something I choose every day. Some days, I have a bad hair day, I spill my tea all over the floor, and I make a mistake that upsets a customer. Other days, we have record sales, I get to go for a walk outside with my dog, and I make a difference for someone else. Regardless, I know I am successful because I love my life. It is in perspective that success lives.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I love corn dogs and, sometimes, I am afraid of the dark.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I have an incredible 18-year-old daugh-ter, Anya, who graduated from Bellarmine and will be a freshman at Seattle University in the fall. Go Redhawks!

What have you done that has made you most proud?There have been a number of things I am really proud of. While working for Catholic Relief Services, I had the op-portunity to travel a number of times to Africa with a family that began a program called The Lusubilo Orphan Care project in northern Malawi. Today the Lusubilo Orphan Care project cares for nearly 9,500 children who have been orphaned or whose futures are vulnerable due to HIV. I have also run a number of successful capital cam-paigns of which I am proud.

What has been your biggest challenge and how was it resolved?I had the opportunity to open two regional offices and build development teams for a number of non-profit orga-nizations. This has been a challenge, but also one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.

How did you earn your first dollar?I earned my first dollar working for my mother at the Old House Mercantile in the Proctor District of Tacoma. Custom-er service was a great first job!

What are you most passionate about?I am passionate about having a career where I have the chance to create opportunities for people to make an investment in other people. Working in development, I get to be a conduit between those who can really make a difference and the organizations that matter to them the most. This passion cares over to the desire to make a dif-ference in the world, both locally as well as globally.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I view success as contentment and hap-piness in all areas of my life. Success deals with my family, with my friends and with my career. Success to me is measured in meaning-ful interactions and the deep relationships I have with all of the people in my life. I’ve raised an incred-ible daughter and have built a career I am very proud of. I am passionate about helping and being of service to others. Life is a journey we create as we go. It is not a destination.

LISA DOYLECay Care

JD ELQUISTFeather & Oar

AMY EVANSBon Lemon

DEIRDRE EVANSDevelopment Consultant

What have you done that has made you most proud?I am most proud of my work in sup-port of my peers and future college students in the state of Washington during my time as the Chair of the Washington Student Lobby, and our efforts to ensure that access to higher education was maintained through protecting the state need grant, providing for protections through legislation from predatory bank lend-ing, and discouraging an increase in student tuition rates.

What are you most passionate about?I am most passionate about the value of education and the impact it has on our youth. Having experienced the value of both a public and private education, I know firsthand the important role that our schools play in the lives of our children and the value they bring to the community in the long run through an educated workforce. I strongly believe that education can and does make a dif-ference in the lives of our children, their families and the communities in which they live.

How did you earn your first dollar?At 14, I started a photography busi-ness with a camera that my parents gave me for Christmas. I loved the idea that my gift, and something I enjoyed, could earn me a living. After first doing portraits, I added graphic design and websites to our list of products.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?While my friends tease that I should have learned how to use Facebook earlier, I would say that, as someone who is fiercely committed to my fam-ily and friends, I value loyalty above all else. I wished I had learned earlier in my career what Jim Collins said in “Good to Great”: that “you need to have the right people on the bus, and in the organization ... it doesn’t really matter where they sit, they will figure that out.” Surrounding yourself with people you trust is essential and leads to the opportunity to learn tangential lessons, such as the importance of a work-life balance and the ability to not take myself too seriously.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?In my professional life, most people would be surprised that I can still do a backflip (in a suit if necessary).

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Plain and simple, success is about your team winning. I will know I have made it when there are no more problems to solve and no longer a need to advocate for solutions to those problems. (Which means we’ll never be done, because tomorrow could always be brighter.)

Describe your career path.Circuitous! I spent the first 25 years of my life absolutely certain I was going to be a fine artist. Driven by that certainty, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Xavier University, worked in an art gallery, and was an artist-in residence in Ireland. After completing a Master’s degree in art history at the Ohio State University, I worked at The British Museum in London on a fellowship and loved every minute of it. I worked at the Cincinnati Art Museum and was on the path to a curatorial career, but I suffered the pangs of pragmatism (”Can I pay the bills?”) that go along with being in a grant-funded position. I eventually transitioned into the field of publishing, specifically in the area of art-related books. In 2005, when my husband accepted a job in Olympia, we made the move to the Pacific Northwest, where we had always dreamed of living. I ended up accepting a position with the Washington State School Directors Association (WSSDA), figuring I would eventually end up back in museum work. It turns out the decision was life-changing and, ultimately, career-changing. I never expected I would love education so much! I feel fortunate to have found my professional calling.

How did you earn your first dollar?I babysat, mostly for the same family, from the time I was 11 years old until I left for college. In hindsight, I realize that taking care of three young boys at such a young age was a great introduction to multi-tasking, prioritizing and conflict management. My dad, a bank manager, taught me to be a saver, so I opened a bank account with that first dollar!

What have you done that has made you most proud?I am most proud of building, leading and being a part of an amazing team at Saint Martin’s University, though I suppose I need to balance that sense of pride with gratitude for good fortune. Our team includes the marketing/communications staff, the event services staff and a crew of student workers and volunteers. Together, they define teamwork, offering a full package of talents, strengths and creativity. They never shy away from a challenge; in fact, they are at their best when charged with what others might see as “the impossible.”

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?One of my favorite classes in college was calculus, which may be surprising because I am most definitely not a math person! I anticipated epic failure (an art major in a calculus class?!) but instead experienced a kind of nerdy academic euphoria. I’m sure the professor who taught that class has no idea what a profound impact he had on me. Every student should have such a transformational experience!

What are you most passionate about?I am seeking to create a community of readers. I love connecting people to books they will love and giving them ways to interact with other readers. We have book clubs, author events, poetry readings and festivals to try to bring like-minded people together to connect in an interesting way. Creating a culture of reading is what makes me fulfilled.

How did you earn your first dollar?I scammed my first dollar being a cute, curly-haired, redhead kid. Oh, earned. I earned my first dollar mow-ing lawns for my neighbors. My first official job was as a soda jerk, and I’ve been in retail ever since.

What have you done that has made you most proud?The event which makes me the most proud is our annual Wayzgoose, let-terpress and book arts festival. When we started, it was a small festival and few people understood letterpress and book arts. Now, it is an enor-mous festival, with attendees with a sophisticated knowledge of printing and book arts. It has been fulfilling to see this transformation, and it definitely makes me proud.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?That I don’t have to do everything myself. I wish I would have relied on my co-workers and community players to do some of the work around events and promotions. It would have taken a lot of the burden off of me and created a communal network.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I’ve been studying hung gar kung fu for the last 10 years. I might look cute, but I am deadly.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success for me is being a vital com-munity member. Whenever anyone says that the bookstore is one of their favorite places in Tacoma or thanks me for my work as a commu-nity player through our events, this is success to me.

How did you earn your first dollar?My first dollar was made babysitting neighborhood kids, but my first “real” paycheck was made by working the gift wrapping booth in the South Sound Mall (now Target in Lacey). The booth was run through the North Thurston High School DECA club, and I was the Man-ager of the booth as a 10th grader.

Describe your career path.I started working at the Port of Olympia 15 years ago as a high school intern through the marketing program at North Thurston High School. After graduation, I was hired by the Port to work the front desk at Swantown Marina. I then transferred to the execu-tive department to work the front desk of the administrative office. During my time at the Port, I have worked for the marine terminal doing business devel-opment research and security; in the properties department doing business development research; in the marketing department doing marketing and event planning; in the IT department doing help desk, phone and computer setup and staff training; and again the execu-tive department doing marketing and community relations.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?To be humble. Early on, I wanted to make sure I received the credit or got the recognition for what I had accom-plished. Now I get more pleasure out of making sure the credit is directed at the team that helped me achieve that great-ness. I haven’t gotten anywhere or can’t accomplish anything on my own. The more credit you give, the more humble you are and the more people want to help you, which in turn creates more success for everyone.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?That I started at the Port as a high school intern.

What are you most passionate about?First, mentoring kids. I enjoy working with the youth. I have always had a passion for it, and I know I will always be involved in trying to have a positive influence in young people’s lives. The second thing is community involvement. I believe a healthy community is one that thrives and has citizens that are involved and care about the community where they live. I try to get involved where I can when I can.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”To me, success doesn’t mean money, status or title. It means happiness. If someone is truly happy with what they do and can say they wake up looking forward to the day ahead with work, family, etc., then they have success. I know I have “made it” because I am happy. I love my job, I love the chal-lenges I am faced with on a daily basis, I love my family, I have amazing friends ... I love my life!

JAMES EVANSGordon Thomas Honeywell

JENNIFER FELLINGERSt. Martin’s University

SWEET PEA FLAHERTYKing’s Books

JENNIE FOGLIA-JONESPort of Olympia

Describe your career path.I work as a commercial real estate ap-praiser and consultant with Strickland Heischman and Hoss Inc. in Tacoma. I’m also currently a State Certified General Appraiser. In addition, I’m in the process of obtaining the MAI Designation awarded by the Apprais-al Institute. Similar to accountants who obtain a CPA designation, this is the most prestigious designation awarded to an appraiser. I took 10 classes, passed a two-day, 16-hour test and have had my work reviewed and approved by a committee of my peers. My final step is to complete a research report that I am in the process of writing. Once I earn that designation, I will be able to become a partner in my firm, or to start my own firm and have instant cred-ibility as an expert in the real estate appraisal industry. I enjoy my work and also would like to explore other aspects of real estate and business. After earning the MAI designation, I intend to earn an MBA degree and continue exploring other aspects of organizations both for-profit and nonprofit.

What have you done that has made you most proud?The thing that I am most proud of is recently being named the Com-munity Volunteer of the Year Award by United Way of Pierce County for 2010-2011. The reason that this made me so proud is that, although I worked on a number of volunteer projects over the last few years, I was nominated by a group of my Project: U Leadership Team members.

How did you earn your first dollar?Other than typical chores and allow-ance given to me by my parents, my first dollar was earned at Pizza Hut. During my high school years I spent most Friday nights and weekends working to earn enough money to pay for a car, insurance and other fun activities. I actually learned a lot at that job, as they cross-trained me in multiple areas.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I wish I would have had more training when it comes to networking and making connections. Living in Tacoma allows for a ton of different ways to meet people, but until you know how to put yourself in a position to be successful, it can be pretty difficult. There are a handful of easy concepts that aren’t always obvious to every-body, but once you’re aware of them, you’ll be off and running.

What are you most passionate about?I’m most passionate about meet-ing new people who are driven and passionate about things. I learn a lot from the people that I meet and I get excited when I get the opportunity to help them with whatever projects they are working on.

What have you done that has made you most proud?My personal growth as father makes me most proud. When our first daughter was born, I had some seri-ous concerns about my ability to raise a child and the timing of her birth came during a very difficult time of transition within my career. However, my love for her inspired me to chal-lenge my insecurities and to boldly live life in a way that I would want her to live when she becomes an adult. Today, I have three daughters, and my combined love for them continues to influence my personal pursuit of excellence as a teacher, mentor and friend to each of them.

How did you earn your first dollar?I grew up working in my parents’ small business. Starting in elemen-tary school, they paid me one cent for each promotional pamphlet that I stamped with their company name and address. Since earning a dollar meant stamping 100 pamphlets, I grew up with deep appreciation for the hard work involved in making money. My first official paycheck was earned as clerk atSafeway. The business lessons I learned there were numerous, with the most valuable being the im-portance of defining, delivering, and measuring high-level customer service.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?Early on, I wish I would have spent more time asking what my innate talents and abilities were and how I could build a career around them. Today, I have a much better under-standing of the importance of playing to my strengths. The other important lesson I wish I had learned at an ear-lier stage in my career is the power of building long term, mutually ben-eficial, professional friendships with individuals in multiple industries. The larger and more diverse my network grows, the more I’m amazed by the personal and professional opportuni-ties that arise because of it.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I’m an only child and I was born fairly late in my parents’ lives. Not only did I learn how to live independently at an early age, but my parents were both part of the Lucky Few genera-tion that was born between 1925 and 1943. I was heavily influenced by both of them. Due to the proximity of their births to both the Great Depression and World War II, they are both very cautious and conservative individuals and at the same time they are very positive and optimistic about the future. At my core, I share these two seemingly contradictory traits.

Who was your mentor and how do you plan to mentor someone else?My mother has been the one con-sistent mentor in my life. She has always been my example of service above self. She is humble with her generosity, sincerity, and loyalty, all the while displaying an unwavering joy that comes from serving those she loves.

What have you done that has made you most proud?The word “pride” is my kryptonite. I watched my father struggle through-out his life because his pride often got the best of him. He lost so much because of it. So, I will (ironically) answer that I am proud that I under-stand humility and have the ability to daily hold my ego in check.

How did you earn your first dollar?The day I turned 16, I drove past two McDonald’s and applied at the third. I worked 60 to 80 hours a week throughout high school.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?Save your money instead of buying things. The things you get will never satisfy you, but the meaningful expe-riences with the people that you love are what matter the most.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?Each December, I shoot over 115,000 photos of kids with Santa at the South Hill Mall.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success for me is knowing my pur-pose in life. I married the most amaz-ing woman ten years ago and have two kids and one on the way. They are the joy and inspiration of my life. My purpose is to serve my wife, train my children, and to actively use the gifts that I have been given to serve others. I think I “made it” when my purpose became clear.

What are you most passionate about?I am a very passionate person, but to narrow it to three things: living a Christ-centered life, service above self, and Dallas Cowboys football.

What are you most passionate about?I’m most passionate about philan-thropy, Tacoma, and running. I’m lucky enough to combine two of those three things daily at my job, and living and working downtown isn’t so bad for running.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I’m continually blown away by what we’re doing here at the Founda-tions of MultiCare — our efforts to improve care for our most precious and vulnerable community members — children facing serious, life-threat-ening conditions. Of course, I’m also proud of the work I did in helping fund the new Tacoma Art Museum building downtown, Bellarmine Prep’s new athletic facility, and Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s Red Wolf and Clouded Leopard exhibits.

How did you earn your first dollar?I’ve always worked in fundraising — my very first job was with the Oregon Garden Foundation washing golf carts they used for donor tours and stuffing envelopes for member-ship mailings.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I’ve had the experience of working with really amazing people who gave you just the right amount of guidance and freedom to be suc-cessful. I sure wish I’d paid more attention to how they did it.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I love philanthropy and non-profits, but sometimes I still think about what I want to do when I grow-up. I have a dream of opening a neigh-borhood brewery in my Hilltop neighborhood.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”For most development offices, success is when you’ve exceeded goal at the end of the year or the campaign. The other side of that is building relationships. I’ve never felt more successful in my career as when I’ve been able to connect philanthropists with the mission of the organization they’re supporting. I guess when those two ideas aren’t competing, but working together, you’ve made it.

CHRIS GIBEAULT Integra Realty Resources

CHRIS INVERSOColumbia Bank

STEVE JAMESDaffodil Festival

MATTHEW JONESFoundations of MultiCare

The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is delighted for our Membership Outreach & HR Manager Lynnette Buffington and Chamber members who were recognized by this remarkable honor. We commend all the exceptional 40 Under Forty honorees whose significant contributions and accomplishments enrich our community.

Voice for Business | tacomachamber.org

CONGRATULATIONS LYNNETTE BUFFINGTON & CHAMBER MEMBERS 2013 CLASS OF 40 UNDER FORTY

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1-4 page ad 40 under fortyFINAL.pdf 1 7/16/13 10:24 AM

Congratulations to this years class of 40 Under Forty!

www.codesmartinc.com

Pallets to pipelinesCarlile leads the way in connecting your shipments to key destinations across Alaska and the Lower 48. We provide complete logistics solutions with exceptional customer service on – and off – the road.

You name it, Carlile can move it.

www.carlile.biz l 1.800.478.1853 ROAD - RAIL - SEA - AIR

At Washington Business Bank, our size is your advantage.

What have you done that has made you most proud?In my profession, there are many dif-ferent ways that an advisor can struc-ture his business in terms of services, compensation, etc. Because of this flexibility, an advisor has the ability to recommend products and services that have a wide range of compensa-tion amounts. This can sometimes lead to a temptation to recommend solutions based on compensation payouts rather than the client’s best interest. I feel that I have done a great job of putting the client’s interest first before my own personal compensa-tion, and, at the same time, building a successful and profitable financial planning firm.

How did you earn your first dollar?The first dollar that I earned that also gave me the most satisfaction was when I was around 10 years old, when I started a neighborhood yard maintenance business. I made up some cheesy business cards and canvassed my neighborhood asking my neighbors if they would hire me to mow lawns, pull weeds, etc. I was surprisingly hired by a number of my neighbors and felt very proud that I was able to do this all my own with-out any direct help from my parents.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?When I look back at the start of my career I was a fresh-out-of-college advisor talking to mostly older clients about financial matters. At that stage of my career, I was talking to anyone who would listen to my story, and sometimes those people weren’t the ideal client. Although I didn’t really have the flexibility to be very selec-tive in my new clients as a young advisor, if I could change one thing, I would have focused on working with the right type of client, as well as not trying to be all things to all people. I have found over the last 13 years in my career that, when you try to offer too much, you often tend to not be particularly good at any one thing.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?This a tough question, because I am mostly an open book. I had to ask my wife about this one, and she would have to say that I am a closet fan of reality dance shows and that I secretly would like to dance profes-sionally if I had any sense of rhythm and ability.

What are you most passionate about?Professionally, it is creating a practice that not only helps clients achieve their financial goals, but does so in a professional and ethical manner. Personally, it is raising our two young children to be caring and responsible people. I feel a big part of doing this is leading by example.

Describe your career path.If I had to use one word to describe my career path, I would say “fo-cused”. From a fairly young age (7), I knew I wanted to be a lawyer and after I made that highly-reasoned de-cision I never wavered in my pursuit of the law. Over time a vision of a boutique firm took shape in my head and I keptworking toward that goal. I wanted to create a firm where high-quality, specialized services were providedto clients but I also wanted it to be a place where we had fun, didn’t take ourselves too seriously and couldhave real lives outside of the office. I’m so lucky that my partners share that vision, and that we were able tocreate a firm that embodies it. It‘s great to love coming to work.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success goes beyond owning and operating a successful law practice. My basic goals are to provide great quality legal services in a fun and supportive environment, create happy clients and earn a living that will sup-port my family. Accomplishing those basic goals while maintaining my integrity and doing things the right way is another foundational piece of success. I’ll feel I’ve made it when I can take it the extra step and make more of a difference in our commu-nity on a bigger scale. What you do with your success is just as important as the success itself.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?The big constant is change. I’ve found that the times when I feel like high-fiving myself because things areso awesome are usually followed by some equally disheartening moment. It’s humbling, but that’s healthy, and it has taught me to maintain a sense of humor through both the good and bad times. You learn that no mat-ter how bad something looks, better times are probably on the way. Like-wise, my business has a natural ebb and flow to it, and I wish I would havelearned earlier how to appreciate the ebbs so that I could also fully em-brace the crazy busy times. I maystill be working on this...

What have you done that has made you most proud?Passing the bar was one of the proud-est moments of my life. The sense of relief and happiness was amazing.I think I am most proud, though, of being able to set off on my own and develop a practice and client basethat is self-sustaining. I really enjoy and care about my clients and col-leagues and I want the best for them. I also can’ t say enough how proud I am that I get to be involved in organi-zations that I really believe in, likeBellarmine Prep and the Greater Ta-coma Community Foundation.

How did you earn your first dollar?My sister would tell you that my first income stream was when she wanted to borrow my clothes and I would rent them to her — until our mom found out, that is. My first “real” job was as a cashier in a grocery store.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I’m proud of making the decision to move to across the country alone at the age of 27. It wasn’t easy, but I knew it was the best thing for me and for my career, so I packed up my dogs and took off. If I hadn’t been willing to take that risk, I would have missed out on so many amazing things that enrich my life every day.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I have a secret love for cheesy mu-sicals from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. Right now, I’m trying to convince my husband to watch an early Sean Connery movie with me. He’s on board until I tell him it’s “Darby O’Gill and the Little People.”

What are you most passionate about?I would say I’m the most passionate about ethical treatment of those who can’t speak for themselves. It’s a real hot button for me because I believe everything stems from how we treat each other and the creatures and be-ings we share the planet with.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I wish I would have known earlier to ask for what I want. Whether it’s a new responsibility, a promotion, or a salary change, no one knows that you want it if you don’t tell them.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I don’t know if I’ll ever truly feel like I’ve made it, at least not to a point where I’ll want to be complacent. There is so much to learn and do.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned ear-lier in your career?It’s a good thing to make mistakes. Remembering that is all right to make a mistake really takes the stress off of a task and brings more enjoyment to the course of project creation.

What have you done that has made you most proud?In 2011, I (along with my co-found-er) created a large event called THE GIG, The Get Involved Gala. The event was created to engage young professionals in Pierce County and educate them on the need in the community and how they can get involved. We en-gaged over 300 participants and raised over $14,000. Many of the attendees now regularly volunteer at Project:U’s monthly volunteer events and have thereby real-ized their passion for giving back. It makes me very happy to have helped people to make those con-nections.

How did you earn your first dollar?My childhood home was on a creek in a heavily wooded area. My younger brother and I would collect small pieces of wood and bunch them together with string to sell as kindling. Once bunched, we’d load up our wagon and go around the neighborhood sell-ing our bundles of kindling. We thought we were rich since we sold each bundle for $2!

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?That I was a total daredevil when I was little and always put my mom in a panic! I had absolutely no fear of getting hurt and would con-stantly find dangerous situations to put myself in, especially in nature — like climbing very tall trees until I couldn’t go any higher because the branches would break as they became thinner as I neared the tops of them.

What are you most passionate about?My passion is giving young people a fun and easy way to find their philanthropic interests so they can make a difference with their own talents while following their hearts.

BRIAN KAMPBELL FLS Financial Group LLC

BRIANNE KAMPBELLKampbell, Andrews & Arbenz

ANNE KERKERBurkhart Dental Supply

VERONICA LARSONKorean Women’s Association

(253) 404-0891 | (800) 540-8322www.BusinessExaminer.com

SOUTH SOUND BUSINESS

We’ve Got You Covered

SOCIAL MEDIAEVENTS &

NETWORKING

BUSINESS NEWS

DAILYBIZ BRIEFS

RESOURCE GUIDES

Congratulations to the 2013 class of 40 under Forty!

Your dedication to serving with

integrity & knowledgewhile keeping client success in mind

makes you an outstanding leader - both in

our company and within our community.

Congratulations,ANNE KERKER

Post Office Box 11749 • Memphis, TN 38111-0749

The voice of freedomnever faltered, eventhough it stuttered.

Winston Churchill was perhaps the most stirring,eloquent speaker of his century. He also stuttered.

If you stutter, you should know about Churchill.Because his life is proof that, with the will toachieve, a speech impediment is no impediment.

Learn about the many ways you can help yourself oryour child. Because your finest hour lies ahead.

800-992-9392www.stutteringhelp.orgwww.tartamudez.org

THESTUTTERINGFOUNDATIONA Nonprofit OrganizationSince 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter

®

7x10StutterFdtnChurchill:PSA 1/15/10 10:29 AM Page 1

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I was 16 when I had my daughter Chelsea. Her father and I have been together for 18 years and are still go-ing strong. I graduated four months early with honors while living with my husband, going to school full time, and raising our daughter. As well, I usually work six days a week, and for the last 10 years I have spent two hours every Sunday taking care of a wonderful women named Nancy, who is in a wheelchair and paralyzed from the waist down. She at first was just my neighbor in the old apartments I used to live in, and for a few years she paid me a little to help. Then after four years, she had trouble with money, but I still help her because she became part of my family. She is no longer here in the States as of a few months ago, but I still call her every Sunday.

Describe your career path.I graduated in 1998, moved to Thur-ston County, and worked at Safeway from 1998 through 2000. From then through 2002, I managed a small retail store. For the next three years, through 2005, I held full-time jobs while working two part time jobs to support my family. Then, in 2005, I moved into the automotive field, run-ning a detail shop that has now ex-panded into a beautiful, full automo-tive detail shop partnered with Line-x of Olympia. I now have 11 employees and manage two businesses under the same roof.

How did you earn your first dollar?I was between the age somewhere of five to seven years old. My neighbor and her husband got in a really big fight, and I can still remember the yelling to this day. He took off after pushing her around. Later, she was on the front steps crying. I went around the entire neighborhood and asked everyone if they had any yardwork I could do to earn some money. After I had made my way around the block, I finally had $15 dollars. I ran home so excited, and asked my mom to take me to the store. She asked, “Why?” I said that I wanted to buy the neighbor lady flowers to make her stop crying. My mom teared up and took me. That is how I earned my first dollar.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?To not take it personally when being offered constructive criticism. I now understand that the advice being of-fered to me when I was younger was to help me grow as a person, and to teach me how to be more professional.

What are you most passionate about?My business, meaning making sure everyone know we is an honest, pro-fessional, and trustworthy company. Also, my family, meaning making sure that they alway know that they are loved.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Definitely my work in the com-munity. I have been involved with various service organiza-tions and non-profits, such as the Rotary Club of Tacoma #8, where I sit on various commit-tees.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?You truly make a living by what you get and make a life by what you give. It is easy to get singularly focused on build-ing your career when you are first starting out. I have learned over the years that by following my passion for engaging in my community and through acts of service, it has in turn provided professional rewards that I never could have expected. Nothing feels better than finding success by supporting the success of others.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I am secretly a science fiction/fantasy geek. I’ve been known to phone friends in the wee hours to discuss climactic turns of events of some of my favorite series.

How did you earn your first dollar?I earned my first dollar work-ing at a drive-in restaurant in Spokane the summer I turned 15. I will never forget receiving my first paycheck — I thought I was rich!

What are you most passionate about?Engaging in our community, whether it be through volun-teering, community service, leadership, working with youth, engaging young professionals, activism, mentoring, etc. I truly believe that building an active, safe, and supportive community sets our community up for suc-cess in education, succession of future leaders, compassion, and overall economic strength.

How would you describe suc-cess? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success to me is knowing that I’ve made a difference. If I can help improve the life of even one individual, I can’t imagine anything more successful.

How did you earn your first dollar?I worked for a summer hire program in Berlin, Germany, as a military dependent. My first job was to clean the pools at the different recreation centers across Berlin. I even was able to go under the pools and see how they were maintained and operated.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I wish I knew the value of rela-tionships with people from other companies earlier in my career. One’s network is worth more than anything else. Most work is won because of who you know and how you treat them. I value everyone for who they are, not necessarily where they work or what they do for their company.

What have you done that has made you most proud?There is no better feeling than serv-ing your country. Serving in the United States Marine Corps and defending this amazing country has to be one of the biggest honors and accomplishments of my life. When one is in the military their purpose is to defend an entire country, and when they get out of the Military, they must find a new purpose. I feel through the different organizations in which I currently am involved, my purpose of serving the country is being carried forward. Contributing to a great society through volunteer work that makes a difference around the world is a great feeling.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?That I can’t sit still. I am constantly on the go because I feel there is al-ways something to do and someone to help. There is no greater feeling than seeing someone smile when you go out of your way to lend a helping hand.

What are you most passionate about?I am very passionate about chil-dren and the mentoring of the next generation. I have coached many different sports, from T-ball to 8th grade youth football, through great organizations like the YMCA and the TCYFL. It is important to help and mentor children at early ages so they can see the value they bring to our communities. In addition, I have a great listening ear and always try to help where I can. Without great men-tors and leaders, our country would not be where or what we are today. The next generation will be smarter and stronger because of what we do today to prepare them. I always see the good in every situation. It is easy to focus on what goes wrong or who did what, but it is better for everyone to find out why things happened and how we can fix or change them for the future.

What are you most passionate about?I am most passionate about my fam-ily and my friends and community involvement. My family and friends have been my biggest supporters in my career and personal life. I love spending time with them, whether it’s just hanging out or lending a hand. I am also passionate about giving back to the community. I have been a board member of the Junior League of Olympia for the past several years, most recently serving as president. The mission of our league is the pre-vention of child abuse and neglect. I also serve on the Providence St. Peter Foundation Christmas Forest Gala committee. Being involved in the community and helping make a difference in the lives of other people is important to me.

How did you earn your first dollar?I have always enjoyed working to earn money. My first dollar was made when I used to do chores around the house for my parents, picking straw-berries in the summer and babysit-ting. I babysat for years for several families and always managed to find some side jobs to do, like cleaning my dad’s office at work and doing yard work for my grandparents.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?The parents of one of my childhood friends own a hitch of draft horses. We used to dress up as clowns, and we were the pooper scoopers for their hitch in our hometown parade. I also have a fear of cats. When I was in the third grade at a Little League softball sleepover, our coach’s cat jumped on me while I was sleeping, and, to this day, I am afraid to sleep in a room with cats!

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success means making a difference in the lives of others and cheerfully lending a helping hand when needed. I feel a sense of accomplishment and success when I know that I have made a positive impact in someone’s life. I will know that I have made it when I am able to leave a legacy behind and when I see my children grow up to be passionate about helping others as well. On the busi-ness side of things, I believe there is always an opportunity to learn more, so I don’t think I will ever feel like I have made it in that regard.

What have you done that has made you most proud?There are several moments that I could list that make me the most proud. On the business side of things, I would say that I am most proud of finding a balance between my home, work and volunteer life, and still mak-ing our family a priority. I work over 40 hours a week, but lots of my work is done before they can get up or after they go to bed, so that we can spend quality family time together.

MICHELLE LEEExtreme Auto Spa & Line-X

STEPHANIE MCCALLUMCommunity Volunteer

DAVE NEWKIRKBCRA

KRISTA O’BYRNECapital Electric & Hoopla Events

What would most people be s urprised to learn about you?I was a competitive tap dancer and danced on Broadway for a week of competing my senior year of high school.

What have you done that has made you most proud?There really are so many moments in my career thus far that I am proud of. There is just something about taking a nonexistent brand — just the thought or ideas or a business — and being part of the team that has a vision to build it from the ground up. The branding to the websites to the creation of giveaways and seeing it all come together. Those are the moments I am most proud of in my work.

How did you earn your first dollar?Probably making some sort of bet with my dad and winning. I’ve always been good at making and winning bets.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned ear-lier in your career?One thing I wish I learned in college that isn’t taught is the importance of relationships in the workplace. I feel that it is so very important to know when to be professional and when to be per-sonable these days. It’s definitely a skill that cannot be taught from a textbook, but is something that needs to be communicated to college students. I feel that is why I have developed such great work-ing relationships with my clients, because I have opened up so they know what I am all about without crossing a professional line.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I would say that I have already “made it.” Success to me is not how much money I make, or how many clients I land. But it’s truly about how happy you are in life. I am in a great spot where I am thrilled about where I work, who I work with and the work I do. That, combined with my amazing family and friends, makes me truly one lucky and blessed lady. I definitely have “made it!”

What are you most passionate about?I am most passionate about be-ing a role model to my daughter. I want her to know how to have fun in life, not to take things for granted and to be a good person to all. I want her to know that you can have a thriving career and still be a rocking mom.

What have you done that has made you most proud?There are a number of accom-plishments that I am particularly proud of. Personally, my wife and I recently had our first child. My greatest accomplishment profes-sionally has been achieving my current position of Vice President. I set a goal in 2004 of joining the Senior Management group before I turned 30, and I was able to achieve this objective.

How did you earn your first dollar?When I was 8 years old, I had as-pirations of being a writer. I wrote one particular story that I was very proud of, and I was fortunate enough to have it published in a local magazine called “Young Voices.” They paid me $20 for my story, a sum that was far less significant than the pride I felt.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?How to delegate. I have always been very hands on and very capable. It took me a long time to realize that the people that work for me are often more able than I am.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?Most people would be surprised to hear that I am the chef of my house. I make a mean chicken taco.

What are you most passionate about?I have two passions in life. First, I love anything where I get to compete. Second, I have a passion for our community. I believe that people need to be provided the opportunity to obtain skills to be healthy, educated, and understand personal finances.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Being successful is a process, not a destination. It is about always growing, learning, and striving to be innovative. I measure my success by my accomplishments: significant personal benchmarks, career movement, and goal attain-ment. I consider myself successful today, and I have “made it” as far as I am concerned, but I have to keep pushing myself to be better and do more.

Describe your career path.I have always been interested in writing and journalism. It’s a pas-sion that goes all the way back to elementary school when I wrote for the “Bearly News” and interviewed the lunch lady to find out what was really in our school lunches. I contin-ued studying journalism throughout school, got some paid writing gigs from The Tacoma News Tribune in my teens and graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with a journalism degree. I interned at The Federal Way News and The Tacoma News Tribune, and worked for more than seven years at The Daily World newspaper in Aberdeen. I covered everything from the city beat to crime, breaking news and courts. At that time I freelanced as well. One of my clients was South Sound Home & Garden magazine. When I learned there was a job opening and met with owner Josh Dunn to learn more about his company, I realized I want-ed to work at Premier Media Group. That was almost seven years ago.

What have you done that has made you most proud?In my career, I’m most proud of the success of 425 magazine. It is not every day that a person gets to cre-ate and map out an entire magazine from scratch, but I had that incred-ible yet challenging opportunity. When Dunn hired me, he had the idea to produce a magazine that covered the Eastside, or the com-munities in the 425 area code that include Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond and more. He left the rest of what it would be up to me. I remember sitting at Tully’s coffee shop on St. Helens in Tacoma sketching my ideas in a notebook, wondering how this would all play out. We launched in the winter of 2006-2007, and the magazine continues to win awards and increase its popularity and prof-itability. In my personal life, I’m most proud of my family. I have great two kids and the most supportive hus-band a woman could ever want.

How did you earn your first dollar?I was a little entrepreneur before I knew what that was. I sold Kool-Aid that I made with twice as much sugar than in called for. I also pulled weeds for the neighbors, sold greet-ing cards and when I was a little older, and had two newspaper routes delivering The News Tribune.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I wish I learned not to get so upset with myself when I make a mistake. I care about my work and I give it my all. I try to be a little nicer to myself and keep it under perspective. No one is going to die because the word “aerial” was misspelled.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I wish I had learned earlier in my career how much I love entrepre-neurship. I also wish I had spent more time exploring what I am truly passionate about, as well as learn-ing about what career path would be a great fit for me. It’s easy to feel the pressure to just get out there and find a “good” job. But I think we are better prepared to find a great career if we have a clear vision for what we want in a career before we start pursuing it.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I have been most proud of my leap into small business ownership. I left a very desirable job in the medical de-vice industry to pursue my dream of owning a business. The medical de-vice sales job had plenty of income potential, but I knew that I would be happier striking out on my own and trying to follow a non-traditional career path.

How did you earn your first dollar?I earned my first dollar by scraping paint off an old metal garage door that was going to be repainted. I remember playing outside with my brothers when our neighbor asked us if we wanted to earn a couple of bucks. We knew a couple of bucks would get us a lot of candy at the neighborhood Hogey’s COrner, so we definitely were up for it. After we successfully removed all of the old paint chips off the garage door, we collected our first “real” money.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?When I’m not spending time work-ing on my business or being with my family, I love to be active in the outdoors. I love mountain climbing, backpacking, cycling, hiking, running, skiing and snowboarding, kayaking, boating, camping and the list goes on. I have led a four-person team to the summit of Mount Rainier, done the Seattle to Portland bike race in a single day, and run a few marathons. I also plan to continue doing these adventures.

What are you most passionate about?I am most passionate about the role that business can play in the environ-mental and societal challenges we face. Business has long been thought of as focused only on the bottom line. Yet now, we are seeing many ex-amples of businesses whose mission is not only to be profitable, but also to have a positive, lasting impact on the global community. Moving forward, I hope to start a company or work with a company that is dedicated to incorporating this new approach to business.

CRISSY PAGULAYANRusty George Creative

AARON PALMERTwin Star Credit Union

LISA PATTERSONPremier Media Group

BEN SCHAFEROxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning

How did you earn your first dollar?When I was 12, I took on my first summer babysitting job in our neighborhood.

What are you most passionate about?When it comes to my work, I am most passionate about customiz-ing a loan solution that is best for each and every client. Every client has their own unique needs and the solution my team brings to them needs to reflect what’s good for my client today as well as into the future. My clients become long-term business partners and understanding their situation is my No. 1 priority.

What have you done that has made you most proud?We’ve all heard the saying that it’s impossible for women to truly have it all, and yet I am proud to say that I have balance in my life. I am fortunate to have friends and family that support me. My personal commitment to ensuring a solid work-life balance enables me to be a good wife and a good mother while having a success-ful career. As a result, when I go home at night, I shut off work and focus on my number one priority — my family. What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?To relax and not let the small things stress you out that are not in your control and to not take things personally.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I think most people would be surprised to know that I have a degree in Fashion Marketing/Mer-chandising.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success for me is defined by the degree of satisfaction my clients have with how and what my team and I deliver for them. My goal every day is to exceed client ex-pectations.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?That I am a true introvert. In my work, I lead people and interact with others all day long, so I think that most people would think that I am extroverted, but that is not the case. I put a lot of effort in to what I do every day. On my off days, I enjoy being quiet. I also completed Ironman Canada in 2004; not many people know that.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Having an amazing family. I just had my daughter in May, and my son is 2 ½ years old. Being a parent is amazing and by far one of the most challenging yet rewarding things I have ever done.

How did you earn your first dollar?Selling watercolor art I had created by the side of the road outside my dad’s work, at age 4.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?That life is incredibly short. Be a kid and carefree as long as you possibly can because you have your entire life to work.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?” I feel like I have made it now. Each day I get to do work that contrib-utes to the wellbeing of patients in our community. I have person-ally touched people’s lives in the actions I have taken. This is a really great feeling because it frees me up from feeling like I have a con-stant race ahead of me to “make it”. I can be much more in the moment and truly enjoying what I do each day.

What are you most passionate about?The people with whom I work. They have hidden talents, pro-found insights, and often they are facing great challenges, which no one may be aware of unless you take the time to connect.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Married my beautiful wife Jen and started a family. We now have two girls Sadie, 6, and Cora, 3.

How did you earn your first dollar?I saw that the house numbers painted on the curbs were fading and in elementary school I decided to have a curb painting business. It cost me 50-cents in materials and I was able to charge $5 — I was able to buy my first pair of skiis and ski in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I learned the importance of staying away from hiring employees that I have a personal connection with. I have gone through some very tumul-tuous times, not only personally, but decisions that have affected many people in The Rush Companies due to trusting friendships that I thought could carry over into business rela-tionships.

What are you most passionate about?Personal growth. I have a great desire to be the best that I can be personally and professionally. I continually try to push myself out of my comfort zone into areas that require me stretch myself. “Noth-ing ventured, nothing gained.” I also believe in bringing the best out in my employees and the company as a whole.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I don’t know if I will ever have “made it.” To me, this is what life is all about — to constantly be presented with potentials for success and work through the issues for these to come to fruition.

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I have an aviation background. I flew for a major airline for seven years before moving to the real estate de-velopment industry. Along with this, people would be surprised to know that I am scared of heights, but that I love to fly.

What are you most passionate about?I am most passionate about helping others and participating in philan-thropic events. I found my love for this while working for the American Cancer Society.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I’m certainly most proud of my current position at the Washington Health Benefit Exchange and my recent completion of my MBA from Pacific Lutheran University.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?One thing that I know now is that making and maintaining relationships and connections will be valuable to your future career. Earlier in my career, I was very focused on my job, but I did not spend much time networking or being involved in my community outside of my office. Now that I have these connections, I realize it is work to maintain these relationships, but you truly get back whatever effort you put into these relationships.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?People would be most surprised to learn that I was a drummer in an all-female rock band. The band was only together for about a month, but we were awesome!

How did you earn your first dollar?I earned my first dollar by picking up small, round plums from my grand-father’s yard. I don’t remember how much money I was paid, but I do remember the feeling of squishing the plums between my fingers and throwing them at my brother.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I don’t think I would pinpoint success to a final destination. I would say that success is the process of making it versus when you have made it. I would define my personal success as making it by advancing and growing my career, obtaining my MBA, con-tinually working to be a great wife and friend, and looking to the future to reach other goals in my life.

HEATHER SCHIRO-STURNSchiro Financial

BETHANY SEXTONMultiCare Health System

MATT SMITHRush Companies

KRISTI STICKLANDA Health Benefit Exchange

Describe your career path.After graduating from Bethel High School, I attended South Puget Sound Community College in Olym-pia for Culinary Arts and graduated, then I went to the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Following this training, I worked at the Little Nell in Aspen, the Eiffel Tower in Las Vegas, and the Mission Grille in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. However, I always wanted to come back “home” to the Puget Sound region to work. Now I have been the Executive Chef for the Hotel Murano and the Sheraton for seven years. During this time, I received Conde Nast Top 100 and Forbes Four Stars recognition, as well as numerous other awards.

What have you done that has made you most proud?The past couple of years promoting the local farms and farmers’ markets has been a great experience. Trying to get more people to eat local has been a mission, and I believe it is happening around here more and more! Also, I am working towards efforts to keep the farm land for the farmers.

How did you earn your first dollar?Working next door to my parents on a cattle farm, where I would feed, birth, and generally help with the calves and cattle. I feel bad that now there are around 180 houses on that land, and wish that it was still farmland.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?To travel to other countries. I felt I wanted to see America and I did, but it’s harder to travel to other coun-tries now that I have a job, a house, dogs, and so on. The more you see of the world, the more you learn!

What would most people be sur-prised to learn about you?I will not eat an olive! I HATE olives!

What are you most passionate about?Supporting small businesses and the local economy. I’ve been on the Food Summit board at the Univer-sity of Puget Sound, worked toward agritourism with the Hotel Murano, and helped stage Tacoma Farmers Market fundraisers here at the hotel. How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I want to bring awareness and cook-ing local experiences to kids, and I would love to have my own cook-ing show with kids helping. In my parents eyes, I have already made it though!

MATTHEW STICKLEHotel Murano

It Takes Some Courage,But Saving Money

Is Worth The Leap.

FeedThePig.org

Put Away A Few Bucks.Feel Like A Million Bucks.

Get Free Savings Tips

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?It would have been very helpful if I would have realized myself, or if someone would have sat me down and explained, the interconnected-ness of our communities, and indeed, our world. Every day, I am amazed at how the people and issues in my world are so closely connected. It is rare that a relationship I develop ends after the work has been completed. Our community is so tight-knit that, inevitably, I will have the opportunity to work with that individual again. As a native and lifelong resident of Olympia, this has become a funda-mental principle of my professional and personal life. These connections have served me well and helped me solve difficult problems, maintain positive relationships, and continue to explore solutions to challenging issues.

How did you earn your first dollar?I earned my first dollar when I was 14, as a page for the Washington State House of Representatives. Sena-tor Karen Fraser was at that time a state representative and served as my sponsor. This civic leadership opportunity was my first exposure to government and politics, which piqued my interest in the public sec-tor at a very young age.

What have you done that has made you most proud?In addition to being a mother, I am proud to have called Olympia home for my whole life. Because of this, I am incredibly committed to my com-munity through active participation in things like the Olympia Downtown Association Board of Directors and the United Way of Thurston County Board of Directors. My son is starting kindergarten in the fall and I have already started volunteering with the Parent Teachers Association for his elementary school. Being involved, staying engaged and giving back in the place I call home and where I am raising my family makes me very proud.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?People would be surprised to learn that I like to hunt, fish, hike, bike, garden and camp! At work, I look like a girly-girl who wears business suits every day. But on the weekends, I’m sporting outdoor clothing and a ponytail!

What are you most passionate about?It is a true toss-up and pretty hard for me to pick just one thing I am passionate about. Giving back to my community was taught to me at a young age. My family has lived in Thurston County for three genera-tions. I am also very passionate about my son. He is the light of my life every day.

What are you most passionate about?I try to find passion in everything I do!

How did you earn your first dollar?I was always looking for ways to earn $1. Age limitations for employment frustrated me. Therefore, I sought alternate ways to earn money before age 16. I mowed lawns, bought and sold vehicles, motorcycles, jet skis, boats, etc. My parents were never surprised as to what I might drag home in an effort to turn a buck!

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I cannot pinpoint one thing. I learn new things every day and can just say you can never learn something too soon.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I am a helicopter pilot. This was a childhood dream that I accom-plished early in life.

How would you describe suc-cess? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”Success is an ongoing and ever-moving bar. Setting your mind to something and achieving it is a success. Continuing to set goals allows a sense of accomplishment along the way and “making it” more often than just once! I can say I have made it time and time again.

What have you done that had made you most proud?Being part of the success and survival of Soundbuilt Homes through one of the worst real estate markets in history.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?I’m only six years into my field. I have plenty to learn. There is no end with food. It’s ever-evolving.

What have you done that has made you most proud?Finding my voice through food. Prior to school, I had not worked in the industry. Going to school with a clear goal, focusing my artistry around food, and driving myself to be the best has made me stand out amongst family and friends in the Tacoma area.

What are you most passionate about?Food! I love what I do. I am the worst at receiving compliments, but seeing someone eat and enjoy my art, that is a great feeling.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”I will feel like I have attained true success as a chef and restaurateur when I can monetarily afford to grow my current business and build my other visions the way I wish. I am ready for another now, the funding just isn’t there. This industry is diffi-cult and the profit margins are small. We do it because we are passionate about it, not to get rich.

How did you earn your first dollar?At 16, I started working at Burger King. Once I turned 18, I ran over to Home Depot where I spent eight years as an associate and vendor rep. Prior to going to culinary school, I worked for my father’s aluminum and bronze foundry.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I have never lived outside Pierce County. I love Tacoma. Even my per-sonal mission statement I wrote in school had referenced that I will take over the Tacoma food scene. Even if my restaurants come and go, I can never see myself leaving my beloved town.

What have you done that has made you most proud?I am most proud of our team of three who have stuck with The Warehouse, an event production company, for the last three years to the point of finally incorporating as a business and taking the next step toward con-tinuing to bolster the music and arts scene in Tacoma.

How did you earn your first dollar?My first dollar was doing chores around the house, but my first dollar in the general workforce was work-ing as a barista at a local coffee shop in my hometown back in Minnesota. My first dollar earned in Tacoma was as an AmeriCorps volunteer for the Northwest LeadershipFoundation.

What do you know now that you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?How important it is to work to live, not live to work, and to follow what you are truly passionate about. If the work you do is something that transforms you and the community you live in, then it never gets boring or draining.

What would most people be surprised to learn about you?I think most people are surprised to find that I am, at the core, an introvert. I spend so much of time networking and being present at events around the area that people are surprised to find that, for the most part, I’d prefer to have a quiet night at home.

What are you most passionate about?I am passionate about seeing a com-munity take ownership of the world where they live. I love to see individ-uals find their power within to make a difference in their neighborhood or city. But I am most passionate about seeing people come together to use their unique gifts in collaboration to create a better world.

How would you describe success? How will you know when you’ve “made it?”It sounds cliche, but I have to say I think I’ve already “made it.” I have the ability to work during the day for Associated Ministries, a local nonprofit that is working for the bet-terment of our city and the way we respond to our community’s deepest needs. On the weekends and eve-nings, I have the privilege of working with The Warehouse, which is work-ing its hardest to transform the arts and music community. Success is finding a career path that feeds your family, but also feeds your soul and the soul of your city.

FARRA VARGASPuget Sound Energy

KURT WILSONSoundBuilt Homes

KYLE WNUKMARROW Inc.

ADAM YDSTIEThe Warehouse

“YOUR FIRST OPTION FOR GREAT TALENT!”

For more than a decade Opti Staffing Group has aligned the South Sound’s top talent with

top employers. Let us show you how our services can keep you ahead of the curve and

in front of your competition!

• Accounting• Administration• Operations• Procurement

• Welding• Machining• Maintenance• Distribution

AND MORE!

Tacoma1142 Broadway Plaza, Suite 110Tacoma, WA 98402253-284-2400

Seattle6840 Fort Dent Way, Suite 390Seattle, WA 98188206-788-4200

At Opti Staffing, we’ll do whatever it takes to provide the best possible service and results every time. We guarantee it. If you’re interested, contact us today. We’d love to work with you! And you can join our talent network to be consistently informed of positions you’re interested in! Visit our website at www.optistaffing.com, or apply in person at one of our two convenient locations.

“OUR SUCCESS IS DETERMINED BY YOUR SUCCESS”

and all the 40 under Forty

honorees!

Congratulations to Krista O’Byrne

3035 37th Avenue SWTumwater, WA 98512

(360) 357-3237

www.capitalelectricwa.com

Congratulations to this year’s class of 40 Under Forty!

The Judging Process

William Behl United Way leadership, USAF/JBLM

Myron Bernard Tacoma Youth for Christ, Tacoma

Lynnette Buffington Tacoma-PC Chamber

Jim Cooper TOGETHER! Lacey

Ali Criss CFP Financial Insights, Tacoma

Sarah Cutting Exit 133 LLC, Tacoma

Keith Dashofy Milgard Manufacturing, Fife

David Devine Columbia Bank, Tacoma

Lisa Doyle RN, Cay Care, Puyallup

JD Elquist Feather & Oar, Tacoma

Amy Evans Bon Lemon, Olympia

Deirdre Evans CFRE, Development Consultant

James Evans Gordon Thomas Honeywell, Tacoma

Jennifer Fellinger St. Martin’s University, Lacey

Sweet Pea Flaherty King’s Books, Tacoma

Jennie Foglia-Jones Port of Olympia, Olympia

Chris Gibeault Integra Realty Resources

Chris Inverso Columbia Bank, Kent

Steve James Daffodil Festival, Puyallup

Matthew Jones Foundations of MultiCare, Tacoma

Brian Kampbell FLS Financial Group LLC, Fife

Brianne Kampbell attorney, Kampbell, Andrews & Arbenz, Tacoma

Anne Kerker Dir. of HR, Burkhart Dental Supply, Tacoma

Veronica Larson Korean Women’s Association, Tacoma

Michelle Lee Extreme Auto Spa & Line-X of Olympia

Stephanie McCallum community volunteer, Tacoma

Dave Newkirk client development manager, BCRA, Tacoma

Krista O’Byrne owner, Capital Electric & Hoopla Events, Olympia

Crissy Pagulayan lead account mgr, Rusty George Creative, Tacoma

Aaron Palmer VP of lending, Twin Star Credit Union, Olympia

Lisa Patterson editor-in-chief, Premier Media Group, Tacoma

Ben Schafer owner, Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning, Tacoma

Heather Schiro-Sturn president, Schiro Financial, Fircrest

Bethany Sexton VP revenue cycle, MultiCare Health System

Matt Smith president, Rush Companies, Gig Harbor

Kristi Stickland WA Health Benefit Exchange, Olympia

Matthew Stickle executive chef, Hotel Murano, Tacoma

Farra Vargas outreach manager, Puget Sound Energy, Olympia

Kurt Wilson COO, SoundBuilt Homes, Puyallup

Kyle Wnuk chef/co-owner, MARROW Inc., Tacoma

Adam Ydstie co-owner, The Warehouse, Tacoma

Business Examiner’s 40 Under Forty program recognizes outstanding South Sound business

and community leaders under the age of 40. Each class of 40 Under Forty represents the diversity

of the South Sound and includes those who have had great accomplishments and made significant contributions to their businesses, industries and

communities.

To select the 2013 honorees, a volunteer alumni panel independently reviewed more than 500 pages of nomination and application materials

outlining 93 potential honorees. Each panel member submitted their top 10 choices from the

candidate pool. Those recommendations were compiled to create the basis for the selection of the 40. From that aggregate list, the candidate list was further narrowed by the alumni panel to create the

2013 class you see represented here.

The process of selecting a new class of 40 Under Forty is significant. A tremendous amount of thought and work goes in to the nomination,

application and judging process to highlight bright talent in our communities. Congratulations to all those nominated and selected, and thank you to those alumni who dedicated their time to ensure

the program’s success.

www.BusinessExaminer.com

CONGRATULATIONSTO THE 2013 40 UNdeR FORTy HOnOrEEs.

OLyMPIA 724 Columbia st. nW, suite 140

360.742.3500

TACOMA 505 Broadway, suite 408

253.292.6640

www.pwblawgroup.com