Young Professional of the Year Nominee: Joe Audette, Elk River Municipal Liquor

The Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce's Young Professional of the Year award will recognize an employee or business owner that is under the age of 40 as of May 31, 2019, and

• serves as a role model for young other young professionals both personally and professionally 
• is an emerging leader who demonstrates excellence, creativity, and initiative in his/her business or profession  
• volunteers through organizations within the area that work to improve the community  

Nominator Statement:

“Joe moved to Elk River at 34 a few years ago and already feels like an old familiar friend in the community. He's been involved in planning the Chamber's annual gala, working with the Rotary club to support The Taste of Elk River, coordinating park clean-ups, and getting involved with non-profits like Guardian Angels and CAER. He brings a wealth of information and enthusiasm to his work, and the Elk River community is better because he's in it.” — Tove Lichty 

Tell us about working with this young leader.

Joe has brought a fresh vision to our liquor store operations and to the community. He has a good sense of personal confidence and is excited to propel the organization forward. He has a keen sense of what it takes to market a municipal liquor store to the community by creating connections between the store and its customers. He has taught me/us a lot about the industry and helped us rework some of our policies to better align with laws and best practices for the industry. — Cal Portner

Describe this young leader in one word. 

Fresh – approach, attitude, and energy.

What impact do you believe this young leader will leave on the community? 

He has close ties to the community already and is making a connection with the industry and the community by helping customers take pride in what the store can accomplish FOR the community. He brings the experience beyond just purchasing a case of Keystone and helps customers try new experiences.   

What do you think this award will mean for this young leader’s future? 

It will continue to propel his self-confidence and add to his drive to grow the organization and the energy to make a difference. He has won other awards, but this one is from his community.   

Questions for the nominee: 

Why do you think you were nominated?  

I like to be involved in the community – it’s part of my way of life. I’ve been a big part of Elk River Fest, Taste of Elk River, and Leadership Elk River.

What is your greatest strength?  

During Leadership Elk River, I learned that helping others feel accepted – being an inclusive and a bridge builder – is a great strength that I have. I didn’t see it as a strength before but now I get how it is important.  

What inspires you professionally?  

Learning from others; everyone has something they can teach me. Being involved with the community helps to solidify my relationship with the community and with people.

On behalf of all of us at ERACC, we'd like to wish Joe congratulations and the best of luck on his nomination!