Mike has been presenting to and training groups and organizations for over 20 years. His background includes working for a Fortune 500 company, serving as an elected official, owning and operating a number of successful private businesses, serving on a variety of volunteer boards, and wearing the uniform of the United States Army through over 35 years of service in the South Dakota Army National Guard. Mike is a veteran serving in both Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He continues to serve in the Army National Guard and currently holds the rank of Brigadier General.

 

Through service in these positions, continued professional education in performance excellence, 34 years of marriage to his wife Jo and raising four kids, Mike has acquired a tremendous background in leadership, teamwork and motivating people. He understands what it takes to build and maintain a positive attitude and how to motivate those around you to be better than they believe is possible. Mike also holds an undergraduate degree in Business Economics, and a Master’s degree in Industrial Management both from South Dakota State University. Additionally, he is a graduate of the United States Army War College through a fellowship at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver.

 

Mike is passionate about spreading a message of self improvement and helping people realize their maximum potential. His overall mission is to assist individuals and organizations to perform at such a level that Excellence becomes their Average understanding that when we become better at who we are, we become better in all we do.