Katie Washnok

Katie Wagner Washnok proudly considers all of South Dakota to be her hometown, having grown up across the state. Katie earned her professional education at the University of South Dakota, focusing on Political Science in education and early career accomplishments. Today, along with her husband, James, Katie owns and operates several small businesses within the custom motorcycle and automotive after-market manufacturing sectors under the collective umbrella of Blackout Industries.

She apologizes to her parents often for her somewhat dusty political science degree. Still, she adds that being an international award-winning motorcycle builder and global industry leader isn’t too bad of a conciliation.

Katie has a true passion for community involvement, with the goal of giving back to the community that has given her so much. She enjoys serving through many facets, including the current President of the Aberdeen Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, member of the Micropolitan organization team, Chairman of the Brown County Republicans, Junior Achievement classroom volunteer, BIG Idea committee member, Aldersgate Church administrative board and worship leader, to name a few…

Katie, her husband James, and their children Jett and Whitley proudly reside in Aberdeen, SD.