Jun 26, 2024
What department do you work in and what is your job title?
My job title is Associate Planner and I work in the Planning and Public Works Department
What is the best thing about your job?
Helping families build their home
What are your favorite things about working for Kalispel Tribe?
Being able to work one on one with people in the community!
What does your workspace look like?
Chaos. Pure chaos.
What has been one of your proudest moments working at Kalispel Tribe?
When I broke my foot, Stan Bluff asked me if I fell of my horse and right after that I rode a horse in North Dakota that tried to put me in the dirt (horse – 0 Madi – 3), and I couldn’t help but think about all the times Stan has made jokes in the office about me falling off, which hasn’t happened in years , but as this horse was jumping around I thought no way in heck am I going to go back to work and have to tell Stan I was bucked off!
I love that where I work, I get to know people 1:1. It makes my part more rewarding when we finish projects in our office. It does not feel like work, I like that.
What do you like to do when you are not at the office?
If I am not at work you can find me at a rodeo, I am Miss Rodeo Washington 2020-2021. If you are looking for me – look for a girl on a horse!
Fill in the blank: I once met…
Macklemore and he tried to steal my vans. Snoop Dogg, and he was two hours late to his show and I had to wait for him at the Double Tree in Spokane. I once met Dierks Bentley and helped him put together a bicycle. I once met Tyga, before Kylie Jenner dated him (it’s not everyday you one up a Kardashian).
Who inspired or inspires you?
My grandma Annabelle moved across the country when she was young, caring for her younger siblings to raise them practically by herself in the Okanagan Valley. She ran a “crew” in the orchards which consisted of her daughters including my mom. I became one of the first people in my family to receive a college education, my grandma had told me that it was a “good thing to do, and I better do it, and that grandmas are always right.” I listened.
She was known for doing what was right all the time, that is what I strive to do.
What is your favorite event that Kalispel Tribe puts on?
Sylvia’s Halloween Party.
What advice would you give to today’s youth?
PUT. DOWN. THE. CELL. PHONE.
What are five words (or less) of advice for others in your profession?
Leave your desk.