Owatonna Community Leadership Academy
OWATONNA COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
The Owatonna Community Leadership Academy is a leadership program designed to enable candidates to learn about Owatonna resources, values, strengths, weaknesses, and challenges. A learning experience geared toward providing an in-depth look at eight key elements of our community: education, economic development, government, healthcare, public safety, quality of life, agriculture, and culture & diversity. This program will provide opportunities for candidates to exchange ideas, build networks and begin the process of identifying and solving community issues.
View the complete OCLA brochure HERE and application HERE
Who: A pool of candidates who are current or prospective leaders in the Owatonna community. Candidates are drawn from business, industry, education, public and private agencies, civic groups, and virtually all other facets of the professional community. Class size will be limited.
When: Monthly sessions run September – June. LEADERSHIP requires a serious commitment of time and energy. Candidates meet the SECOND TUESDAY, a full day each month. Attendance is imperative. Participants are expected to attend all sessions with the exception of an extreme emergency or illness. You are also expected to serve as a day leader the following year.
Where: Seminars are held at a different location each session.
How: A series of topical seminars held over a nine month period and conducted by local and regional professionals. Area leaders volunteer their time to raise awareness to the assets and opportunities of our community by providing an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at eight key elements of our community.
Cost: $ 1,195.00 – Tuition is payable at the time a participant is accepted to candidacy. Scholarship opportunities are available.
To learn more, contact Julia Seykora at 507.451.7970 or jseykora@owatonna.org.
2024 OCLA Graduates
Rachel Boss
Rachel Boss
Human Resources Specialist
City of Owatonna
Working as a Human Resource Professional for the City of Owatonna has given me the chance to collaborate with diverse departments in a meaningful manner. Our overarching purpose is to “Create a Better Tomorrow,” and I appreciate that we integrate this goal into our daily work. I genuinely love working here and consistently helping to make a positive impact.
Jessy Groves
Jessy Groves
Sales Manager
KOWZ radio group and Linder Digital
I love working at KOWZ radio and the family of radio stations because we get to help businesses grow! I love helping people and this job gives me the perfect opportunity to do that. We get to help businesses identify their problems and provide solutions to those problems. I also really like to know what’s going on in the community, and working at the radio station is about as good as it gets!
Elliott Herdina
Elliott Herdina
Patient Care Supervisor
Owatonna Hospital / Allina Health
Allina Health puts their employees and their patient care first and foremost. I personally have worked for other major healthcare systems and have found that Allina Health promotes safe, effective, and efficient patient care above all others. We continually hear from our patients that Allina Health in Owatonna does a tremendous job at the bedside and our patients “would not go anywhere else.”
Becky Hermanson-Hill
Becky Hermanson-Hill
Owner/Agent
Berkshire Hathaway Advantage
Owner/Agent
Berkshire Hathaway Advantage
Celebrating a 25-year journey as a licensed Realtor in Owatonna! Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is backed by one of the most admired names in business. Being a part of the Berkshire Hathaway network is an honor and privilege. From obtaining my MN license in 1999 to proudly co-owning Berkshire Hathaway Advantage Real Estate since 2006, it’s been an exciting ride. Our office stands strong with 18 dynamic, licensed agents and a stellar front office team of three, each dedicated to excellence.
Berkshire Hathaway Advantage is not just about closing deals; we’re about crafting experiences. With a wealth of professional knowledge and a deep-rooted understanding of our local market, we’re here to empower both buyers and sellers, turning dreams into reality, one successful transaction at a time. I couldn’t be prouder to be a Berkshire Hathaway Real Estate Professional in our wonderful community of Owatonna, MN!
Julie Jacobs
Julie Klein Jacobs
Materials Manager
Sputtering Components
I truly enjoy working for Sputtering Components, we have a great team who really are a family. Sometimes we bicker, but we always pull together to get the job done. We rally around our “family” members in good times and in hard times. We work hard, we play hard, and we make successes happen. Also being in an industry and working for a company whose products are used to make so many items that are used by billions every single day is kind of cool!
Matthew Kern
Matthew Kern
Realtor
RE/MAX Venture
I am proud to say I work at RE/MAX Venture in Owatonna in big part because of the values and camaraderie that exists there, both in the culture of my peers and the leadership. The owners Matt and Deb have always strived to put us individual agents first and to always support us when we need their help. I’m thankful it’s a space where I’ve always felt comfortable and felt at home.
Andrew Kline
Andrew Kline
Continuous Improvement Leader
Viracon
Viracon has given me the opportunity to grow into my role and flex my knowledge of IT, Production, Management, and Continuous improvement. Always pushing me out of my comfort zone and contributing to my personal growth.
Lauren Kozelka
Lauren Kozelka
Owner
Kottke Jewelers
I love working at Kottke Jewelers because it allows me to continue the 105 year legacy of exceptional customer service experiences and assist people in finding special items, especially engagement rings that mark new beginnings! Being a small business owner allows me to actively engage in our community, volunteering to make Owatonna the wonderful place it is! Plus, who can resist working with diamonds every day?!
Kyle Kriener
Kyle Kriener
Ag/Business Banker
Profinium
Working at Profinium is a source of immense pride for me, and there are several reasons why I cherish being part of this organization:
1. The People: At Profinium, I’m surrounded by a team of dedicated individuals who are not only passionate about their work but also genuinely care about each other’s well-being. The collaborative and supportive environment fosters growth and makes every day enjoyable.
2. Vested in Communities: Profinium’s commitment to the communities it serves is truly inspiring. Whether it’s through charitable initiatives, volunteering efforts, or supporting local businesses, Profinium is deeply invested in making a positive impact on the communities we call home.
3. Helping Individuals Achieve Their Dreams: One of the most fulfilling aspects of working at Profinium is the opportunity to assist individuals in realizing their financial goals and aspirations. Whether it’s buying a home, starting a business, or saving for the future, being able to play a part in helping people achieve their dreams is incredibly rewarding.
Darcy Kubat
Darcy Kubat
Customer Site Area Manager
Fastenal
I really enjoy working at my job because of the atmosphere. I enjoy working with my coworkers. They create a good surrounding to be a part of. And I also enjoy creating long-lasting relationships with my customers.
Sammy Miranda
Sammy Miranda
Human Resources Manager
Lakeside Foods
Why do I cherish Lakeside Foods as my place of employment? That is an easy one, the heart of my commitment to our organization lies a profound sense of purpose. My company has bestowed upon me the incredible opportunity to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals within my community and throughout the globe. Whether it’s lending a helping hand to a neighbor or collaborating internationally with global partners, I find fulfillment in knowing that my work matters and has changed the lives of many for the better.
Sara Pichner
Sara Pichner
Controller
HomeTown Credit Union
I love working at HomeTown Credit Union because of the way we make a difference with our member advocacy and community core values! Our team works hard each day to put our members’ needs first. HomeTown supports numerous non-profit groups and is involved in the communities where our branches are located. Being a lifelong Owatonna resident, I appreciate a company that supports local efforts and gives back.
Annie Priebe
Annie Priebe
Vice President, Director of Public Affairs and Advertising
Federated Insurance
Federated is a very special place to work. We have a phenomenal culture and I get to work with people who inspire me to be my best every day.
MaryJo Robbins
MaryJo Robbins
Office Manager
Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
I love working at the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism because each day brings new questions and learning. Plus, I have a great staff to work with as well, that is a huge bonus.
Lindsay Schultz
Lindsay Schultz
Controller – Owatonna
Daikin Applied
Daikin Applied is a great company to work for. I have enjoyed that they care about their employees, desire to develop and grow people.
Lisa Simon
Lisa Simon
Cosmetology and Esthetics Instructor
Riverland Community College
Teaching cosmetology and esthetics is incredibly rewarding! It allows me to share my passion and knowledge with others, helping them develop the skills and confidence to succeed in the field. It can be fulfilling to see the students grow and excel, knowing that I’ve played a part in their journey. I truly enjoy working for Riverland Community College – working here has given me the opportunity to grow so much, both personally and professionally.
Jennifer Thiele
Jennifer Thiele
Executive Director
Steele County Historical Society
I love history and I have always wanted to work at a museum in Minnesota. The Steele County Historical Society has a little bit of everything which is perfect to draw in visitors. The Village of Yesteryear is great for those who like to immerse themselves in history and truly step back in time. At the History Center, guests can experience educational programs, events, and tour exhibits featuring more contemporary stories from local history. The Orphanage Museum located at the former Minnesota State Public School, is another opportunity to step into history. This historic location is the last remaining state school in the country. More than 10,000 children called the state school home and SCHS is honored to preserve and share their stories.
