Aug. 8, 2023

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Kevin Kuphal, business development representative at Interstate Office Products.

Name: Kevin Kuphal

Age: 40

Hometown: Gaylord, Minnesota

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

Originally, I moved to Sioux Falls to be closer to my daughter, Jordyn, as well as the opportunity to succeed in a growing community.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

I love Sioux Falls. For me, the size is right, with a relatively low crime rate and an amazing downtown. The business climate is great, and in Sioux Falls, you are never far from wherever you need to go. I love being able to have the opportunity to positively impact the Sioux Falls community. There’s a prospering downtown, plus the ability to hunt and fish on the weekends.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Meeting with new people frequently and providing solutions that greatly improve their everyday life at work.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I had been working in B2B sales, providing solutions that were more of a want than a need. Through this, I was exposed to commercial furniture and design, something every business needs. I realized that if I believe in the company I am working for and their story, I can provide value and be successful.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Professional, bright, modern.

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

My beautiful wife, kids and I live on a hobby farm where we raise goats, miniature cattle, chickens and ducks.

Of course, we have to show you the baby goats.

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

I really enjoy sharing my experiences with young sales professionals somewhat new to the business scene, helping to get them on the right track and develop productive cadences that work for them.

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

Bass Pro Shops or Trader Joe’s.

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

This is a tough one. While I realize a million bucks doesn’t go as far as it used to, I would either work toward a sustainable family farm or build a real estate and development company. However, building a successful real estate and development company could allow me the opportunity to do both!