Rod Carlson was born and raised in Thief River Falls, MN.  A graduate of Brown College with a degree in Radio and Television, Rod moved to Brookings, SD with the cable company and was hired by Sioux Falls Cable in 1974.  A born business development professional, serving in the roles of General Manager and VP of Government Affairs and Community Relations, Rod spent the next 31 years blazing the trail for the growth of the cable and telecommunications industry in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Nebraska for Midcontinent Communications.   His diversified skill set and the natural ability to develop long lasting relationships both business and personal paved the way for him to move into the world of banking with First PREMIER Bank as VP of Business Development, healthcare as Director of Public Affairs with Sanford Health and most recently as Director of Public Relations and Marketing for Active Generations.  

Through his endless dedication to community service, he is a committed volunteer.  Countless nonprofits in education, tourism, human services, as well as service clubs, Chamber of Commerce, and local and state government have benefited from Rod’s many contributions.  A decorated Veteran of the US Air Force, Rod is a past Board Member of the Sioux Falls Airshow.  

Rod’s honest, thoughtful and heartfelt representation of these many organizations has brought millions of dollars in support to their causes.      

We are proud to recognize Rod Carlson as 2018 South Dakota Sales and Marketing Executive of the Year™.

More pictures of the event are here