Headwaters RDC Staff
Ryan Zemek
Executive Director
Ryan has been with HRDC since 2008. Ryan primarily focuses his time on economic development projects, but also provides development assistance within various functional areas including leadership development, natural resources, community development, and transportation planning. Starting July 1, 2021, he has been selected to be Executive Director, after Tim Flather's retirement.
Vanessa Burkman
Community Development Planner
vburkman@hrdc.org
218-333-6542
Vanessa joined the HRDC staff in April 2021. Her focus is on community development and identifying local area needs.
Naomi Carlson
Development Specialist
Naomi has previously worked with the HRDC, returning in February 2021. Her focus is on transportation and active living projects in the region.
Antonio Franklin
Economic Development Planner
Antonio join the HRDC staff in September 2020. He primarily focuses on regional economic recovery and resiliency projects, while providing technical assistance to businesses and entrepreneurs adversely affected by the pandemic. He also provides support on economic development projects for communities and non-profits in the region.
Levi Haar
Lending and Accounting Specialist
Levi joined the HRDC in March 2017. He primarily focuses his time on administering a variety of owner-occupied rehabilitation loan programs as well as assisting with the day-to-day accounting activities.
Vicky Hetteen
Business Loan Support Specialist
Vicky joined the HRDC in August of 2020. Her role is to support the business lending activities of the Headwaters Regional Finance Corporation (HRFC) and its Revolving Loan Funds. She is also responsible for the maintenance of loan files and accurate data management.
Sarah Linda
Business Loan Specialist
Sarah joined the HRDC in December of 2015. She primarily focuses her time on managing the Headwaters Regional Finance Corporation (HRFC) and its Revolving Loan Fund. She also manages several additional loan funds on behalf of local customers.
Missy Malone
Accounting Support Specialist
Missy joined the staff team in December 2018. Her role is to support the various accounting and administrative activities of the HRDC.
Nicole McKinnon
Finance Director
Nicole joined the HRDC in December 2017. Her primary responsibility is to manage fiscal functions of the Headwaters Regional Development Commission, its subsidiaries and partner organizations.
Jackie Pierson
Administrative Support Specialist
Jackie joined the staff team in July 2020. Her role is to support the various administrative activities of the HRDC.
Sarah Wilcox
Development Specialist
Sarah joined the HRDC in August 2018. She primarily focuses on Community and Housing Development. Sarah also provides the lead staff services for the Northwest Regional Emergency Communications Board.