Jerry Haas is no stranger to the Bismarck-Mandan Young Professionals Network. This St. John, ND native is often referred to as the “Godfather” of the Network, having been one of the network’s founding members. Today, Jerry is a Senior Land Agent for North American Coal Corporation, a role he’s held for two years.

Why do you feel it is important to be part of the YPN?
The YPN provides so many awesome opportunities for its members, whether it is with service projects, professional development opportunities, business networking, planning events, serving in leadership roles and much more! I have been very fortunate to have worked with so many outstanding people and made many lasting friendships in the YPN that I never would have had the chance to if it wasn’t for being active in this great organization!

Role in the YPN:
I am a member of the Ambassador and Entrepreneurship Teams, Past Chairman of Epic Impact and also serve as an advisor where needed. I have also had the privilege of serving as YP President, Service team co-lead, Ambassador team co-lead, Entrepreneurship team co-lead and Chairman of the 2010 & 2013 Great Plains Young Professionals Summit.

Are you involved in other organizations in the community?
I’m very involved in the Bismarck Optimist Club where I serve as a member of the Board of Directors. I also serve as the co-chair of our Optimist Easter Egg Hunt and as co-chair of our annual Optimist bowling tournament. I recently completed my term on the Board of Directors for the United Way and remain active as a member of a couple committees. I’m very passionate about giving back to the community and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

What professional advice do you have for other young professionals?
Set goals, work hard and follow your dreams. Shoot for the stars, but keep your feet on the ground. Seek out leadership opportunities. Be sure to get out and network and get involved in the community as well!

How do you spend your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going to rock concerts, biking, running, fishing and traveling. I also enjoy going back home when I can to work on our farm in the beautiful Turtle Mountains.

What is your favorite quote?
“Some people look at things the way they are and ask, ‘Why?’ I dream of things that never were and say, ‘Why not?’” – Robert Kennedy

Fun Fact(s)
I have attended nearly 60 rock concerts, including AC/DC six times!

“Jerry is a priceless asset to the YP Network and the E-Team,” says Amy Brown, Entrepreneur Team Co-Lead. She continues “Over the years he has accumulated a wealth of YP knowledge and history. He gives selflessly of his time, attends many events and is helpful to all the teams. He graciously provides insight and serves as a business partner liaison to Capital Credit Union, BSC, NISC and Eide Bailly. Jerry is my “go-to” person if I have any questions regarding YP. He encourages me as a co-lead and is quick to give praise about successful events.”

“The YP wouldn’t be what it is today without Jerry!” – Amy Brown, Entrepreneur Team Co-Lead

We couldn’t agree more with Amy’s comments. Thank you, Jerry, for your undeniable devotion to the network!

Justin Thomas is an Insurance Agent with Kramer Agency Insurance, a role he’s held for nearly nine years. A Devils Lake native, Justin has previously served as an Ambassador Team Co-Lead from 2011- 2013 and then again from 2015-2016. Let’s learn more about Justin our Ambassador Team Spotlight!

Why do you feel it is important to be part of the YP Network? Your mom was right. You are who your friends are. The YP Network is who your mom wants you to associate with. This network is a collection of some of the most ambitious and generous people I’ve ever met. That’s a pretty good combo.

Are you involved in other organizations in the community? I currently serve as the Past Chair on the Young Agent Committee within the Big I of ND. Without getting into the weeds and putting everyone to sleep, it’s simply an organization that helps Independent Insurance Agents, and in my role, agents that are either new to insurance or young in age. I’ve been very fortunate to have an employer that invested in my development early and I feela great deal of purpose in helping to provide similar resources to others trying to earn a living in the profession that may not have the resourcesprovided by their employer.

 What professional advice do you have for other youngprofessionals? Have a mission that focuses on helping others through using your natural strengths. Figure out what excites you. If you don’t know yet, read more books, but never finish a dull one. Then figure out how you can use that passion to serve a purpose. One perk (of many) – networking efforts are quite a bit more effective when you’re helpful.

How do you spend your free time? I’m either competing in a sport (basketball, volleyball, kickball) or relaxing with family/friends, a good book, or a tv show.  From one extreme, to the other.

What is your favorite quote? “Wind extinguishes a candle and energizes fire. Likewise, with randomness, uncertainty, chaos: you want to use them, not hide from them. You want to be the fire and wish for the wind.” ―Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Fun Fact(s) My senior year of high school I set the Devils Lake record for most 3 pointers made in a season (the record has since been broken)

 “Justin is a valuable resource to the YP Network,” says JordanNygaard, Ambassador Co-Lead. He continues, “Having been a co-lead twice and still quite active, Justin provides us with a lot of expertise and experience.”

Thank you, Justin, for your devotion to the network! We are so glad you’re a YPN member.