Business Newsmakers

NorthWestern Energy awards grant to FireSafe Montana  

NorthWestern Energy is providing $5,000 in support to FireSafe Montana for a statewide radio campaign focused on helping Montanans reduce wildfire risk. 

The campaign is designed to reach residents across Montana with clear, actionable information they can use to protect their homes, families and communities. 

The radio campaign will support ongoing statewide efforts to raise awareness about wildfire preparedness, encourage community resilience, and promote actions that can reduce the impacts of wildfires on people, property and critical infrastructure. 

GL Solutions awarded contracts 

The Illinois Gaming Board recently awarded GL Solutions, a leading regulatory software provider, a contract to modernize its regulatory system. The Arizona Department of Public Safety also awarded GL Solutions a contract to modernize licensing and permitting systems. 

Kalispell-based GL Solutions has more than 28 years helping state regulatory agencies better serve the public with GL Suite regulatory software. 

Stack Financial Management ranked on Forbes list  

Stack Financial Management of Whitefish was recognized by Forbes as one of “America’s Top 250 Wealth Advisors,” ranking No. 119 out of 250.  

SFM was also named as the leading  firm in Montana, ranking  No. 1 on the 2026 list of “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors.” These elite lists acknowledge advisors who distinguish themselves through an unwavering commitment to their clients, a disciplined investment approach, a collaborative team culture, and meaningful contributions to their communities. SFM manages over $2.1 billion in assets for individuals, families, and business owners across Montana and the U.S. 

Forbes considers advisors for these prestigious rankings based on an extensive list of criteria that encompasses assets under management, industry experience, revenue trends, and compliance records, to name a few. Over 50,000 nominations were evaluated for these rankings. Those that were selected stand out as role-model firms – leading the way in following best practices and providing a high-quality experience for clients. 

Girardot named managing director of SVN Purewest 

David Girardot has been named managing director of SVN PureWest Commercial Real Estate, one of the region's only dedicated commercial real estate brokerages. 

SVN PureWest Commercial specializes exclusively in commercial real estate, offering clients a comprehensive suite of services not available through traditional brokerages in the area. With a client-first philosophy at the core of everything they do, the team is committed to delivering expert guidance and results-driven solutions for buyers, sellers, tenants, and investors across the region. 

Mann named one top wealth advisors 

Edward Jones financial advisor Jesse C. Mann of Columbia Falls was named among the 2026 Best-in-State Wealth Advisors in Montana by Forbes|SHOOK in 2026. 

Mann has served area investors for the past 16 years.
To compile the rankings, SHOOK Research analysts conducted individual interviews with nominees. Criteria that determined the final ranking included industry experience, best practices, compliance records and assets under care.
Mann's team includes Jake Kindel, Financial Advisor, Kim Slaybaugh, Associate Financial Advisor, Ruth Meadows and Sonya Bitterman, Client Support Team members. 

Three Rivers Bank of Montana promotions and appointments 

Three Rivers Bank of Montana has had several promotions and appointments to its board of directors.  

Amanda Paul has been promoted to assistant vice president of human resources. Paul has built an impressive and varied career spanning the service industry, travel and hospitality, and government service. This wealth of experience has shaped her reputation as a strong leader and an effective trainer, qualities that have propelled her to this pivotal role within the organization. 

Ashley King-Jones has transitioned into the role of senior vice president of lending. King-Jones began her community banking career in 2006 and brings extensive experience across retail banking, lending, loan processing, and underwriting. She is focused on helping customers achieve homeownership and business growth. 

Cynthia West is now the vice president of operations and finance. West has been a valued member of the Three Rivers Bank team since 2014 and brings a strong combination of financial expertise, operational knowledge, and leadership to her expanded role. She plays a key role in supporting the bank’s financial integrity and day-to-day operations. 

Dr. Marisa Hoyne joins the existing members of the Three Rivers Bank of Montana Board of Directors.  Hoyne is a Kalispell native and the founder of Kalispell Direct Care. She is a double board-certified physician in internal medicine and obesity medicine, bringing a strong background in healthcare leadership, and data-driven decision-making to the board. 

Jolene Olson has transitioned to senior vice president of retail sales. Olson focuses on strengthening relationships throughout the Flathead Valley and highlighting the value Three Rivers Bank brings as a locally rooted, community‑focused financial institution. Her professional background is rooted in Human Resources, which has shaped her leadership style and approach to customer service. 

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