40 UNDER 40: Nicole Rumpel

Nicole Rumpel has built her career around helping people, supporting communities and keeping programs running smoothly.

“I’ve known from a really young age that community and acts of service mattered to me,” she said. “Both of my parents were deeply involved in the Silver Valley community, and from the moment I was old enough to be helpful, I was right there beside them.”

At Avista Utilities, she’s grown from customer service into technical work and now into community outreach, where she manages outreach collaborations across the company by working with teams to identify programs to share at events.

Rumpel's work is another way for her to serve others in the place she calls home.

“Watching my parents give back showed me firsthand how much impact just a few people can have,” she said. “That shaped the way I see community work today. I want to see my community thrive and I want to support the people doing the hard work who sometimes just need a little extra help.”

That’s why joining the board for Charity Reimagined felt like everything coming full circle. The nonprofit’s mission and approach to building dignity and self-worth aligns completely with Rumpel’s beliefs about service.

“Seeing the work they do, and the community’s support behind it, has been such a powerful example of how a small group of people can truly change the trajectory of someone’s life and circumstances,” she said.

The Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber Leadership Program also had a major impact on Rumpel. In the Class of 2024, she forged incredible friendships and built meaningful connections with local leaders who play a big role in shaping the community.

“Getting a behind-the-scenes look at the work they do — and how they navigate challenges — has changed the way I show up for my community,” she said. “It pushed me to think more intentionally, lead more thoughtfully, and stay committed to service in a deeper, more informed way.”

Rumpel said she sees herself becoming even more deeply rooted in the Kootenai County community over the coming years.

“I want my work to focus more locally, where I can build deeper relationships and support programs and organizations that align with my values,” she said.

It’s easy to focus on what’s wrong and to criticize, Rumpel said, but it takes more strength to stay soft, look for real solutions and be a positive force in the middle of negativity. She emphasized that a leader can be both respected and gentle.

“You don’t have to choose between being strong and being soft,” she said. “You’re allowed to lead with empathy, kindness, and compassion — and still be taken seriously.”