March 31, 2026

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Jerzy Nielsen, manufacturing engineering manager at Showplace Cabinetry in Harrisburg.

Name:  Jerzy Nielsen

Age:  36

Hometown:  Harrisburg

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I’ve spent most of my life in Sioux Falls. I lived in Lincoln, Nebraska, for a few years but for the most part grew up in and around Sioux Falls and haven’t really left!

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls feels like the perfect fit for me. It has all the conveniences of a city but still makes it easy to get out and enjoy the outdoors. The people are friendly, and most of my family lives here, which makes it a very welcoming place to raise our family. There’s a lot to do in the city itself, and within a few hours’ drive, you can find some solid hunting and fishing spots.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I truly enjoy the people here.  It’s a very team-oriented environment where everyone is willing to step in and help wherever needed. For me, the specific product being manufactured matters less than the people I work with. The team you’re a part of plays the biggest role in how you experience your job.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I’ve always known I wanted to work for a company that manufactures some sort of product. While I was in school, I had the opportunity to intern at Showplace, and I quickly realized this was a company I could see myself building a long-term career.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Collaborative, engaging, tangible.

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

I placed first in the Nebraska state outdoor archery tournament when I was 16.

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

I try to give back by supporting the people around me and making a conscious effort to be someone others can rely on. I regularly help friends, youth and colleagues problem-solve, share knowledge and offer support when they need it. For me, community isn’t just about organized service, it’s about how we take responsibility for supporting others around us. Being dependable, generous and intentional about helping others through challenges allows me to contribute meaningfully to the community around me.

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

It would have to be a Cheesecake Factory; it’s tough to beat the lemon raspberry cheesecake.