Families That Built Sioux Falls: What Every Business Leader Can Learn from Family Businesses

Some of Sioux Falls' most respected companies are family businesses, and their influence has helped shape the city's growth for generations. Yet their greatest challenges often have little to do with finances, strategy, or operations. They involve trust, relationships, succession, and the difficult conversations that shape both families and businesses.

Join Chris Thorkelson of Lloyd Companies, Craig Snyder of VIKOR, Lucas Fiegen of Fiegen Construction, and family business advisor Jerrad Aman of WillKate for a candid discussion about leading across generations, navigating family dynamics, and building organizations that endure. Moderated by Eric S. Erickson, Executive Director of the Prairie Family Business Association, this conversation will explore the leadership decisions and values that have shaped both these companies and the Sioux Falls community.

The buffet lunch begins at 11:30 am. The menu will be Summer Skewers – Fire Braised Chicken Breast or Shrimp Scampi Skewers, Wild Rice Pilaf, Grilled Asparagus & Squash, Fresh Fruit, and Warm Dinner Rolls.

The presentation, at the club’s regular weekly meeting, will be held at the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls and will begin at noon. All Downtown Sioux Falls Rotary Club programs are open only to Rotarians and their guests. All programs are subject to the club's Privacy Policy. Local media are invited to attend to record the session.



Rotary International is one of the premier service organizations in the world. The Rotary Club of Downtown Sioux Falls is among the largest clubs in the world. For more information on how to become a mentor or involve your organization in mentoring visit Sioux52.org.