Guiding Growth Rocket SPACE

2024 CANDIDATE EDITION


Monte Lyons is a USAF veteran and has worked in the aerospace industry for over 40 years. He holds three degrees with a Masters in ADR. His career in aerospace included roles in manufacturing, quality, facilities, tooling, biz ops, flight test, and operations. 


Monte has been married to his wife of 40 years, they have 7 children, and 7 grandchildren together. They have lived in Gilbert since 2019.


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Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders


Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.


Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders.


This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Aaron was born in Southern California and raised in a military family who was transferred around the country. He was primarily raised in Southeast Virginia and ended up attending the College of William and Mary. He graduated in 1995 with a Bachelor's of Business Administration, with an emphasis in accounting. Upon graduation, he worked for Ferguson Enterprises for 17 years as a buyer, branch credit manager, branch operations manager and regional purchasing manager. From there he took a few years to work in an area that he has been passionate about for most of his life and worked for the Catholic Church as a liturgical director. Once he accomplished his goals in this time of service, he returned to the business world. During the past 7 years he has worked for a small family business in the east valley, Poco Verde Pools & Landscaping, and serves as their Construction Manager.


Aaron has been married to his wife Christine for 24 years, and they chose to move to Gilbert, Arizona 17 years ago to raise their three children. He is a devout Catholic and regularly attends St. Anne's Catholic Church in Gilbert.


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Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders


Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.


Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders.


This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

2024 CANDIDATE EDITION


Natalie Di Bernardo, a proud Arizona native, epitomizes the spirit of community engagement and entrepreneurial drive. As a devoted mother to teens, she understands the importance of building a thriving environment for future generations. Natalie's journey in entrepreneurship has equipped her with invaluable experience in turning visions into successful actions. Her tenacity and collaborative approach have served as an example of what is required to be a leader within her community.


She is deeply committed to local politics, recognizing the significance of ensuring that the voices of her community are heard and represented. She wants to see our town foster a transparent environment where every individual feels empowered and represented.


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Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders


Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.


Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders.


This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

2024 CANDIDATE EDITION


With a dynamic career spanning over two decades in the energy, water, and infrastructure sectors, I currently lead as a Senior Engineer within the Electric Vehicle (EV) group at Salt River Project (SRP). At the forefront of SRP's managed charging initiatives, my role is crucial in shaping the future of electric vehicle integration. My work is driven by a passion for innovation and sustainability, evidenced by significant achievements, including being named in the Phoenix Business Journal's 2018 40 under 40 for my impactful leadership and my involvement as a member of the 2023 class of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship through the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership.


My professional journey is marked by a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure development complexities. As a registered Professional Engineer, Certified Energy Manager, and Certified Demand Side Manager, I specialize in leading complex projects to fruition. My approach combines advanced business analytics and systems engineering principles to address the pressing challenges of energy and water resource management. Outside of SRP, I contribute my expertise as the Chairman of the Planning Commission for Gilbert, Arizona, guiding urban planning and community development towards sustainability. Furthermore, as the Founder and former President of Nexus Integrated Solutions, I played a pivotal role in establishing the firm as a leader in sustainability solutions in Arizona. My transition to a private investor and shareholder status allows me to focus on strategic projects at SRP and continue my extensive civic engagement, reflecting my unwavering dedication to making a lasting impact on the community and the environment.


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Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders


Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.


Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders.


This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

2024 CANDIDATE EDITION


Scott Anderson, a dedicated Gilbert resident of over 30 years. Since settling in 1988 with his wife EJ Anderson and their five children, Scott has been deeply involved in town affairs. As the visionary behind the Gilbert Riparian Preserves, he is steadfast in his commitment to preserving Gilbert's status as a nationally acclaimed community and a top-tier destination in Arizona.


With three decades of experience in local governance, Scott brings a wealth of expertise in land use, city planning, sustainability, and essential municipal processes. His track record is adorned with accolades for his innovative projects and programs, demonstrating his ability to lead with creativity and efficiency. 


Scott holds a Bachelor's degree in Geography and International Relations from Brigham Young University, along with a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Colorado. Trust in Scott Anderson to continue shaping Gilbert's future with his unwavering dedication and proven leadership.


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Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders


Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.


Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders.


This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

2024 CANDIDATE EDITION


Kenny Buckland has spent the last 40 years refining his leadership skills. He began as a teenager managing the family business, progressed to become the second in command of a large police department, became a leader in long-range surveillance technology focusing on protecting our borders, and served as a global crisis manager. Currently, he serves as the senior director of sales in a second chance company, driven by purpose and duty as his North Star. Kenny firmly believes that leadership is the cornerstone of success. With a master’s degree in educational leadership and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Kenny is well-equipped for his roles. He is a graduate of both the FBI National Academy Command College and Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command. Kenny holds a third-degree black belt in Judo and has dedicated many years to coaching youth and adults in martial arts.


Kenny’s wife of 10 years is also a public servant, currently serving as the Chief Deputy to the Maricopa County Assessor. Together, they have a blended family of five adult children, including one in neurosurgery, two serving our country in the United States Air Force, and two currently pursuing higher education. They also cherish time with their two grandchildren, making the most of every opportunity to be together despite their family being spread across the nation and world.


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Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders


Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.


Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders.


This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy