Flathead Business Newsmakers

Springs names new director

Joel Allen is the new executive director of The Springs at Whitefish. As executive director, Allen manages the various moving pieces that come with operating a senior living community. He ensures residents receive quality service, that the community meets or exceeds financial and regulatory compliance, and the right job candidates are recruited.

The community provides nearly 75 local jobs and serves more than 80 older adults in Flathead County.

Allen joins The Springs Living after seven years with Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell, where he most recently served as a practice manager, overseeing clinic staffing, compliance and patient satisfaction. He also has significant experience as a financial advisor and operations manager.

Allen has a Master of Science in international finance and business from the University of the West of Scotland in the United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Science in risk management and insurance from the University of Mississippi.

Galen joins LSW Architects 

Melissa Galen has joined LSW Architects. She joins the team as a Senior Architect, bringing more than a decade of experience primarily focused in the housing sector with a specialty in mass timber design.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture from Woodbury University in 2010, Galen's professional journey has been marked by diverse roles in esteemed firms like Katerra and Kaiser + Path. She has built a robust portfolio of projects, from multifamily and senior living to mixed-use and modular housing with her recent work on PathHouse gaining national attention for its innovative approach to addressing the current climate and housing crises. 

With a particular affinity for construction administration, Melissa thrives in the fast-paced and dynamic energy of on-site work. Her dedication to detail in construction documentation has consistently showcased her expertise. Beyond her professional achievements, Melissa's roots in a family of educators has fueled her interest in the educational sector, aligning with LSW's focus on diverse projects, including K-12 education and trauma-informed design.

Melissa’s passion for sustainable design, problem-solving prowess, and zest for life position her as a valuable asset to the collaborative and innovative culture at LSW Architects.

Flathead County runner-up in employee awards 

Flathead County has been named the runner-up recipient of the Employer of Choice Award for  2024. 

This achievement is awarded by the Flathead Job Service Employers’ Council to recognize and honor employers within the Flathead community who demonstrate a commitment to their employees and provide an excellent work environment. 

Each year, Flathead JSEC receives nominations from employees proud of their employers for creating exceptional work environments. The nominations are scored according to four criteria:  Employee Benefits/Initiatives, Leadership and Workplace Culture, Employee  Training/Development, and Community Orientation. 

The Flathead Job Service Employer Council is a not-for-profit volunteer advisory committee consisting of a diverse group of local area employers who serve as ambassadors and mentors for Job Service Kalispell and the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.