April 1, 2025

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Kobi Ringling, employee relations coordinator at the city of Sioux Falls.

Name: Kobi Ringling

Age: 36

Hometown: Platte

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

My internship at Children’s Inn, now Shelter for Family Safety, during my last semester at SDSU. I then worked at the shelter for 13 years before coming to the city of Sioux Falls.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

My family and I love all the amenities of Sioux Falls! No matter what you’re interested in, you can find something you enjoy doing. We love being outside on the bike trails, going for hikes or going downtown for the SculptureWalk. My husband and I enjoy going downtown for date nights or finding a hidden gem for a delicious meal together.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love being a community servant through my work. I have always had a heart for serving others, so getting to do that by collaborating and supporting the various departments at the city of Sioux Falls is extremely fulfilling.

How did you get connected to your industry?

In my previous role at Shelter for Family Safety, I focused on enhancing employee performance and program development through strong employee relations. I also collaborated closely with community partners to strengthen or create new partnerships. When I came across this position, I knew it was a perfect fit for me.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Collaborative. Supportive. Empowering.

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

I don’t have a passport and have never traveled outside of the country.

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

I am proud to support Sioux Falls in various ways. I give back by financially supporting various nonprofits and volunteering my time. I also love shopping small to support our local family businesses.

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

I would love to have Ikea in Sioux Falls. A couple of friends and I take an annual trip to Minnesota for Ikea. Though I love our girls’ trip each year, it would be so nice to have one here.

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

I would combine some of my favorite things and open a book cafe! A whimsical coffee shop and bookstore combo filled with beautiful plants, comfortable reading nooks and plenty of natural light.