Dec. 3, 2024

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Logan Aukes, supervisor with Williams & Company, CPAs.

Name: Logan Aukes

Age: 25

Hometown: Larchwood, Iowa

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I grew up attending Sioux Falls Christian, so I have a close connection to the area. After graduating from Dordt University, I worked for three years with Williams & Company, CPAs in our Le Mars, Iowa, office. My wife and I returned to Sioux Falls in 2023 to support her educational pursuits and to establish a local office for Williams & Company. It has been a fun transition, and we are both excited to be back in the community.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

For my wife and me, Sioux Falls is an ideal place to live. Being close to friends and family is its biggest advantage, but we also enjoy the available outdoor activities — from skiing and biking to relaxing at a nearby lake. Beyond that, the city has a supportive business community with lots of energy, making it a great place to build a career.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

The best part of my job is building relationships with clients. We get to partner with amazing people, and I am grateful for the trust they place in us to be a part of their journeys. It is a significant responsibility but one that brings immense satisfaction.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I initially planned on becoming an attorney; however, I interned at Williams & Company during college, thinking that the accounting experience would complement a future in law. I quickly found myself drawn to the work of a CPA and the culture at Williams & Company. What started as an internship turned into a fulfilling career, and I haven’t looked back since.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Dynamic, collaborative and empowering.

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

People are often surprised to learn that I am not a coffee drinker, but I am always open to suggestions if anyone has a drink order that will change my mind!

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

My wife and I both grew up playing soccer, so we enjoy volunteering with programs like Neighborhood Soccer, where kids can stay active while learning valuable life lessons. I am also passionate about financial literacy and volunteering with initiatives that help others manage their finances more effectively.

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

I think it would be great to have an indoor snowboarding and skiing facility open during the summer months.

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

I would invest the $1 million into launching a venture capital or private equity firm focused on supporting entrepreneurs in Sioux Falls and the surrounding region.