May 18, 2021

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Kayleigh Koch, a financial officer at Farm Credit Services of America.

Name: Kayleigh Koch

Age: 24

Hometown: Hawkeye, Iowa

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I graduated from Iowa State University and moved to Sioux Falls for work. Sioux Falls also happened to be where my boyfriend — now fiance — moved for his job six months prior. I knew I wanted to work in the agricultural industry, ideally with Farm Credit Services of America, and it worked out that I could be with Ty and start my dream job.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Community and friendships. It took a full year to truly feel that I could call South Dakota “home,” but three years in and I don’t see us leaving anytime soon. We are involved at our church, Young Professionals Network, I play volleyball with a few teams, and I’ve built relationships with my co-workers and customers. South Dakota has been nothing short of welcoming to an Iowa native.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Working in the industry with the most hardworking and humble people I know, who also happen to put food on our tables. As a financial officer, I work with people to purchase farmland, and I love that I can be a part of a larger legacy, helping families invest in their operations and their future.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I grew up on a farm in northeast Iowa and knew from my involvement in 4-H and FFA that eventually I would want to work in the agricultural industry.

Describe Farm Credit Services of America in three words.

Dependable. Adaptable. Team-oriented.

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

I started a hobby craft business in college where I make and sell crafts at shows. I also love to host craft workshops and am looking for a place to do that in Sioux Falls. My small side business is called Nailed It by Kayleigh.

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

I love volunteering at Embrace Church. I get to spend a few hours with the kids while their parents worship. I also love volunteering at Feeding South Dakota, which we do a couple times a year through Farm Credit.

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

I come from a town of 500 people, so I seem to learn about a new business in Sioux Falls every week!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Retired and playing golf! Oh wait, did you say five? We’ll see were life takes me, but ideally, I’d be building a strong foundation at Farm Credit, starting a family and traveling as much as possible!