April 21, 2026

This week’s Up-and-Comer is EmJ Thompson, a project manager at IRA Financial.

Name: Emily “EmJ” Thompson

Age: 27

Hometown: Mitchell

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

After graduating from South Dakota State University in 2020, I was looking for a place that felt like more than just a stop along the way — I wanted somewhere I could truly build a life. Sioux Falls stood out immediately for its balance of professional opportunities and quality of life, so I took the leap and made it home!

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls has a unique ability to feel both close-knit, like a small town, and full of opportunity, like a big city. Even though I didn’t grow up here, I’ve always felt welcomed and encouraged to get involved. Over the past five years, volunteering with organizations like Sioux Empire United Way has shown me just how deeply this community cares for one another. It’s a place where you can truly make an impact, and I don’t see myself ever leaving!

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

It’s hard to choose just one, but what stands out most is being part of a rapidly evolving industry. The world of self-directed IRAs and alternative investing is constantly changing, and it’s exciting to work for a company that’s leading that charge! Even more rewarding is knowing that the work we do directly helps people take control of their financial futures and build long-term security. It’s incredibly meaningful to know that what we’re building is genuinely improving our clients’ lives.

How did you get connected to your industry?

With my background in account management in the marketing industry, project management felt like a natural next step for me. When I heard IRA Financial was looking for a project manager, it felt like a unique opportunity to step into something new. It was one of those decisions that just felt right, and it’s proven to be exactly that over my last two years here.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Innovative, collaborative, driven.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I actually started college planning to go into prosthetics and completed nearly two years of coursework in that field. I was drawn to it because of a desire to work with and support veterans. While my path ultimately shifted to business and marketing, that early motivation to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives has stayed with me and continues to shape how I approach my work today.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

I love volunteering with the Sioux Empire United Way! It’s the easiest way to give back to our community — financially and with my time. I encourage anyone who’s looking to get more involved to check them out. Their work supports an estimated one out of every three individuals in our area, and they rely heavily on volunteers to help provide for our community’s needs.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

With the growth Sioux Falls is experiencing, I’m a little surprised we haven’t seen a Whole Foods or a Trader Joe’s yet. I’m ready for either!

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

I’d love to create a space inspired by a concept I grew up with as a kid in Frisco, Texas — something like Libby Lu’s, but with a modern twist. A place where kids can celebrate birthdays and special moments, while also giving parents, especially moms, a chance to relax and enjoy services of their own. It would be centered around creating memorable experiences for families and filling a unique gap in our community!