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 a Project Manager with the Northern Rocky Mountain Economic Development District. Her specialty is strategic research, supporting communities and organizations through economic analysis, data-driven planning, and collaboration with local partners. She enjoys the multidisciplinary nature of economic development and the opportunity to work on diverse community projects.

Grace holds a B.S. in Economics from Montana State University and began her career with NRMEDD while completing her studies. As a Gallatin County native, she is passionate about supporting the long-term success of communities across Southwest Montana.

Outside of work, Grace enjoys running, biking, and traveling. A former Montana State cross-country and track athlete, she can often be found exploring Montana’s trails and backroads.

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.

Ellis grew up in Australia and came to the U.S. to pursue a competitive skiing career. She loves all things outdoors and can be round skiing in the winter and backpacking or rafting in the summer.

Contact: ellianehall14@gmail.com