Kathryn Kratzer is one of Wheat Belt's newest employees, serving as our Accounting Specialist. Growing up in Sidney, Nebraska, and then attending Chadron State College, she provides great knowledge after completing her degree in Business Administration with a minor in management. Even though it wasn't planned, Kathryn also has a minor in art. Her family is all local, including her parents, her brother, and his growing family. Kathryn's brother is also a lineman for Tri-State Generation and Transmission. 

Why did you decide to work for Wheat Belt? 

I decided to work for Wheat Belt for many reasons, mainly the people. I could tell when I came in for the interview that everyone out here is like a family. I really love how close-knit everyone is. 

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I spend most of my free time with my boyfriend, Brayden Haley. I have also been trying to learn how to golf, which is a lot harder than I thought it would be, so my dad and I have been spending a lot of time on the course in Chappell. 

What are you most excited about in joining Wheat Belt? 

I am most excited about learning something new. Accounting is not something I have done professionally, but I love a challenge, and am really enjoying everything so far. 

What do you like most about working at Wheat Belt? 

I like a lot of things about working at Wheat Belt. If I had to pick, I would say I would like that I can go to anyone with a question or problem and they will help me through it. 

Do you have any other skills that people may not know about? 

I love to play the guitar. I taught myself how to play during my senior year of college.

Brooke Darden is Wheat Belt's Employee Services and Communications Administrator. Darden was previously at High West Energy (HWE) in Pine Bluffs, WY for about four years as their Communications and Marketing Coordinator. Darden is a graduate of Laramie County Community College, as well as the University of Wyoming (UW), where she received her Bachelor and Master of Arts in Communication. Darden taught public speaking at UW, as well as at Northwestern Colorado Community College. Her family resides in Eastern Laramie County in Wyoming. 

What do you like most about working at Wheat Belt? 

Not only am I passionate about this industry and furthering Wheat Belt's mission, but the people are also amazing. The best part of this job is the people I work with and being able to serve our customers. Everyone has been so welcoming, and I am so happy to be here. 

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I love spending time with my family and friends, and being involved in the community. Whether it is supporting my boyfriend as he coaches baseball or showing my family around the community, I love staying connected. I love being outdoors, walking my dog, reading, and continuing to grow in my faith. 

How did you get into this line of work? 

I grew up in the cooperative world, as my dad was an accountant at HWE for 20 years. After graduating from college, a position opened at HWE, and I applied. I enjoy this industry and serving others, so when this position opened, it was a great opportunity to get involved in the community and continue working in a great industry. 

Do you have any other skills that people may not know about? 

I love to sing! I grew up singing with my mom at Cheyenne Frontier Days, and I have loved it ever since.