Women Making Tremendous Impact in Jamestown Stutsman County

During the month of March, women across the country are being recognized during National Women’s History Month as well as International Women's Day (8th). But for the Jamestown/Stutsman County Development Corporation (JSDC), recognizing women business owners and industry leaders is a celebration that lasts year-round. 

“We are in awe of the resilient women who are constantly going above and beyond to make our region a better place for all of us,” said JSDC operations coordinator Jamie Czapiewski. “They are also the inspiration for the next generation of women to take on more roles in leadership, technology, and community involvement.” 

An Unshakeable Belief

The responsibility of inspiring the next generation of women to take on key leadership roles is something that isn’t taken lightly by women in the region.

“Now more than ever, young women need encouragement and support in the workplace. Discrimination, judgment, and mistreatment still exist. Women are too often overlooked, underestimated, and undervalued,” said Tonya Perkins, foundation director for the Jamestown Regional Medical Center. “Female leaders have a responsibility to challenge that. We must equip the next generation with the confidence and resources to challenge inequality. My goal is to instill in young women an unshakable belief in their worth. They need to know their voices matter. They deserve to be heard, respected, and valued.”

And stepping into leadership roles should be something that women should always feel empowered to do, regardless of their age.

“I made the choice to run for public office (Mayor of Jamestown), at the age of 28, because I did not see anyone else stepping forward to provide the dynamic leadership and prioritization of economic growth I thought the community deserved,” said Katie Hemmer, director of Jamestown Regional Airport. “Serving as Mayor from 2010-2018 was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I encourage young women to seek out leadership roles in their careers and their community. The new generation of women leaders can be the fresh energy so desperately needed for a business, a community, or an organization to grow. You can balance any perceived lack of experience with intelligence, vigor, hard work, and creativity!”

A Community of Support

Throughout the state, various programs and organizations have been created to support women in various stages of their careers. 

Business owners are encouraged to tap into the wide array of programs offered by the North Dakota Women’s Business Center (NDWBC), whose mission is solidly rooted in the building of a community of small business owners, subject matter experts, corporate executives and economic development thought leaders. Among their offerings are state and federal certification programs, networking opportunities, entrepreneurial support and an annual Women’s Business Summit, which will take place in Medora on April 29, all designed to help women move forward in their area of expertise.  

“Every business leader needs resources for education, networking, and financial incentives to grow. Education workshops, like those offered by NDWBC, JSDC, and their partner organizations, played a big part in shaping my leadership skills,” said Hemmer. “Learning from experts and peers can help you to grow as a person, an employee, and a leader. It is a safe space to explore your leadership strengths and learn to improve your weaknesses.” 

Having someone in their corner is something every woman deserves, said Perkins. “Organizations like JSDC and the NDWBC ensure women have a seat at the table and that their voices carry weight. I am so proud to be part of JSDC, where women’s contributions are recognized and valued,” she added. “Organizations like these are critical to building a world where women’s voices are heard as clearly as men’s—whether in business, at home, or in society. They teach the next generation to value women’s perspectives and create opportunities for women to succeed. They show that women in leadership isn’t just important, it’s essential.”

Discover more about the various ways the Jamestown Stutsman County Development Corporation can support your business or career by clicking here!