Executive Director

Sarah Thomson is the Executive Director of the Northern Rocky Mountain Economic Development District. Before stepping into this role, she served as a planner and managed the historic preservation program for the City of Bozeman’s Community Development Department. She holds dual Master’s degrees from the University of Colorado Denver in Historic Preservation and Urban and Regional Planning. Driven by the belief that economic development and community development are deeply interconnected, Sarah focuses on building programs and helping communities that directly respond to local needs. She is passionate about staying rooted in the region she serves and is dedicated to building strong regional connections. When she isn’t busy collaborating on strategic initiatives, you can find Sarah spending time with her family and enjoying the outdoors.

Contact: sarah@nrmedd.org | (406)-518-1599

Project Manager

Grace Gilbreth is an Economic Development Specialist with the Northern Rocky Mountain Economic Development District. Grace began her work with NRMEDD while attending Montana State University, where she graduated with degrees in Economics and German. Her specialties are in economic analysis and community-based problem solving. As a Gallatin county native she is excited about the opportunities NRMEDD provides to support her home community, preserving what makes it special while helping it grow. She enjoys the wide-ranging and interdisciplinary nature of economic development, and she is always eager to learn something new.

“I grew up in Bozeman running and skiing, so being outside has always been a big part of my life. I ran cross country and track at Montana State, so in my free time, you can usually find me running around Southwest Montana (especially with friends, hopefully followed by coffee). I also enjoy climbing, traveling, and trying new recipes in the kitchen”

Contact: grace@nrmedd.org

Economic Development Specialist

Elliane (Ellie) Hall is an Economic Development Specialist with the Northern Rocky Mountain Economic Development District. Ellie began her work with NRMEDD after earning her Master’s degree in Applied Economics from Montana State University, where her thesis research examined homeowner wildfire risk perception in the Western U.S. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Quantitative Analysis of Markets and Organizations from the University of Utah. Her professional strengths include economic and data analysis, as well as strategic problem solving. She is excited to support the District and the communities she has come to value through living and working in the region.

“I grew up in Australia and came to the U.S. to pursue a competitive skiing career. Since then, I have developed a deeper appreciation for outdoor communities and the importance of sustainable development in supporting them. I spend most of my free time skiing in the winter and backpacking or rafting in the summer. When I’m not outside, I enjoy baking and game nights with friends.”

Contact: ellianehall14@gmail.com