These amazing people have some pretty interesting jobs, so we’re taking a fun peek into their work world along with some of their personal facets. This series will be ongoing, so if you have anyone you’d like to nominate as a potential Spotlight feature, send us an email at [email protected]. Enjoy!
Spotlight on KeKe Stephenson
KeKe Stephenson, a 2019 LSBE graduate, has been a research analyst at the Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation in Eveleth, Minnesota, for two years. When she was a student at LSBE, KeKe worked with our team on the 2019 study, Economic Feasibility of Mass Timber Manufacturing in Minnesota. Now, we get to work with her in a different capacity, supporting economic development on the Iron Range!
What does a typical day look like in your job?
There’s truly no typical day in my role, and that’s what I enjoy most about it. Some days I’m focused on agency initiatives and internal projects; other days, I may be providing data and research support to local businesses or helping facilitate community workshops. Every day brings something new, and no two days have ever looked the same!
What do you like best about your current job?
I love the variety and the sense of purpose behind my work. Each day presents unique challenges and opportunities, and I take pride in knowing that everything I do contributes to making a difference in our region.
What about your current job do you find most challenging?
The most challenging aspect is recognizing that our work is never truly finished. The economic and community challenges facing our region are complex and evolving. However, collaboration and partnerships—such as our work with BBER—make it possible to move forward together. Partnerships are essential in economic development. They allow us to make greater progress collectively than we ever could individually.
If you could snap your fingers and solve any problem facing our community, what would it be?
I would ensure that every community has access to safe, reliable infrastructure—roads, water, sewer, and power. Significant progress has been made in this area, and I’m proud that our agency supports and funds these essential needs through our grant programs. Thriving communities depend on strong foundational infrastructure; without it, growth and quality of life are limited.
What is the most recent thing you’ve read (besides email)?
Magic Words by Jonah Berger. It’s amazing to realize the power that our words hold!
What is something (knowledge or a skill) you would like to learn?
If I could learn any skill, I’d love to be able to predict the future. In economic development, we never truly know what challenges or opportunities lie ahead—whether they’re economic shifts, natural events, or unexpected community needs. While uncertainty can be daunting, it’s also what makes this work dynamic and meaningful.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received that has helped you in your career?
The quote from Greek philosopher Heraclitus, “The only thing constant in life is change,” reminds me to stay adaptable and open-minded. Embracing change leads to growth, creativity, and stronger solutions to the challenges we face.