Our Members
DEC members are local business people and government officials appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce whose knowledge of international business provides a source of professional advice to companies seeking to expand international sales. Members of the Idaho DEC play a major role in planning and coordinating export expansion activities of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The DEC also serves as a communication link between the business community and the Department. The DEC works very closely with the U.S. Commercial Service office in Boise in supporting the Idaho business community.
DEC Officers
Gerd Uitdewilligen
IDEC Chair
Mr. Uitdewilligen is the Director of International Sales at Copeland, which boasts a rich 100-year history of providing exceptional products to the HVACR market. Copeland’s extensive product range includes compressors, controls, thermostats, valves, software, and monitoring solutions that cater to the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Based in Boise, Idaho, Gerd was among the earliest employees of PakSense, which is a wholly-owned Emerson subsidiary. Gerd has played a key role in growing the company’s international business, expanding it to exports in 80 countries. Gerd’s remarkable export efforts earned him the Export Achievement Award from the US Commerce Department and recognition from US Senator Mike Crapo. As a long-term member of the Idaho District Council, he has coached multiple companies under the annual Export Excellence program. Gerd holds a Drs. Degree in International Economics from Tilburg University and a Master’s Degree in Agricultural Economics from Montana State University. In his spare time, Gerd loves cycling, coaching soccer, and traveling with his three teenage sons.
Jennifer Woods
Idaho USCS Director
U.S. Commercial Service Idaho Office
E: Â [email protected]
P: (208) 955-6694
LinkedIn
Jennifer Woods started her role as the Director of the U.S. Commercial Service office in Idaho in November 2023, after moving from Tennessee, where she was Director of the Knoxville Commercial Service Office. Jennifer began her career as a Foreign Service officer from 1997 to 2000, then worked as a Senior International Trade Specialist from 2000 to 2017. She then served as a Senior Foreign Commercial Service Officer in Lagos, Nigeria, for four and a half years. Jennifer has also served the agency in Tokyo, Japan, and Portland, Oregon.Â
Before joining the Commercial Service, Jennifer worked in the private sector for ten years in international marketing for several high-tech companies in the Washington, D.C.
metro area. She speaks both Japanese and French and has an M.A. from Johns Hopkins SAIS, and is a CGBP.
Jennifer has expertise in industries including Aerospace & Defense (Aircraft, Aircraft Parts, Airport and Ground Support, Aviation Services, Composite Materials, Defense Industry Equipment), Automotive and Smart Mobility, Education and Training Services, Environmental Technologies (Water Resources, Solid Waste and Recycling, Air Monitoring and Pollution Control), Energy Industries (Oil/Gas, Renewable, Power Systems), and Safety & Security (Equipment & Services). Â
Jennifer joins the US Commercial Service Boise, ID office following a second tour in Lagos as the Senior Commercial Officer. During her tenure in Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, she had to opportunity to apply the full suite of her commercial tradecraft and diplomacy skills in this complex and highly nuanced market. She is excited to return to the U.S. field in Boise and apply her decades of experience in the U.S. and abroad to grow international trade support systems in the local community and across the State.
Rendi Bell
IDEC Vice Chair
Director International Sales
United Parcel Service (UPS)
116 East 42nd Street,
Boise, Idaho 83714
E: [email protected]
P: (208) 908-1300
Fax: (208) 327-1572
LinkedIn
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Rendi currently serves as the International Director of Sales for UPS. Her team of International Account Managers are focused on international business development with many Fortune 500 companies. Rendi has been directly involved with global expansion for a number of Fortune 500 companies. She holds a B.S. in Political Science International Relations and a minor in French and History. Rendi enjoys her work with the Idaho District Export Council and is currently serving as the vice chair of the IDEC. Rendi has over 25 years of business experience. Rendi resides in the Boise, Idaho area and is raising 3 sons with her husband Alan. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, gardening, golfing, and reading.
Kristin Kyle-McQuesten
IDEC Treasure
Trade Finance Manager
E: [email protected]
P: (208) 424-2855
LinkedIn
International banker Kristin Kyle-McQuesten helps put the world in reach for businesses seeking trade across the globe. She holds a degree in Economics and a Certificate in International Economics from the University of Washington.
Over her 25-year banking career, Kristin has specialized in international banking and treasury management working for international, national, and regional banks. Before entering banking, Kristin worked in transportation and logistics, gaining insight that continues to inform her work today.
Kristin has been with Banner Bank for 14 years and currently leads the Bank’s team of trade finance professionals. She believes facilitating commerce to be at the heart of what she does and especially enjoys providing tailored solutions with a high level of service and security.
DEC Members
Kirk Adams
Worldwide Account Manager
FedEx Services
2770 W Fred Smith Str Meridian, ID 83642
E: [email protected]
P: 208.761.1082
LinkedIn
Kirk has 36 plus years of experience in the transportation industry, ranging from operations to sales. Industry segments include: less than truckload, small package express, and ground as well as international import and export. Recently, his focus has been on Fortune 100 companies with regards to how joint ventures and mergers will affect their supply chain decisions.Â
Kirk attended Washington State University in Pullman, WA. He received his bachelor’s degree in Economics with an option in Transportation.Â
As a past president of the Idaho DEC and current chair of the Legislative and Trade Policy committee, Kirk has worked extensively on trade issues.
Tracy Day
Assistant Director
Boise State University Intensive English Program
1910 University Drive
Boise, ID 83725
E: [email protected]
P: (208) 914-3438
LinkedIn
Tracy has documented success in leading cross-functional teams and developing enhancements to various global programs. Expertise in managing overall operations of international offices, including interaction with non-native and cross-culture English speakers, managing incoming study abroad application procedures, writing the proposals, and arranging the details with the universities, businesses and agents.
Highly-skilled in analyzing global environment and coordinating with international departments to improve overall processes. Background in directing international internship programs to support companies’ export capacity to Southeast Asia, and building partnerships for recruiting skilled talent from Asia, Europe, Middle East, Latin America, and Africa. Expert in administering pre-program planning, on-program implementation stages, and post-program wrap-up activities.
Talented in dealing with complex situations and delivering exceptional results within fast-paced environments. Possess excellent communication and negotiation skills.
Laura Johnson
Bureau Chief
Idaho Department of Agriculture
2270 Old Penitentiary Road
Boise ID 83712
E: [email protected]
P: (208) 332-8533
LinkedIn
Laura Johnson is the Bureau Chief at the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Market Development Division. She oversees the Department’s domestic and international marketing programs aimed at expanding sales and creating economic opportunities for Idaho farmers, ranchers, and food processors. Since she joined the Department in 1991, she has coordinated sales missions and promotions in 18 countries and has participated in and co-managed over 20 Governor Trade Missions. She is a past President of the North American Agriculture Marketing Officials (NAAMO) organization. In 2005, she received a “40 under 40” recognition by American Food and Ag Exporter Magazine as one of 40 individuals across the country under 40 with significant contributions to agricultural exports.
Dan is currently a Director for Yamada Consulting Group focused on the agricultural sector for companies looking to export to Asia and Southeast Asia. He also is responsible for Japanese firms looking to broaden their footprint in the United States through increased sales or M&A activity. Prior to joining Yamada, Dan was a founder and CEO of Wirestone and spent the early part of his career at Hewlett Packard and State Street Bank. He has an MBA from Northeastern University and a BA from the University of St. Thomas.
Shane Hamblin
VP – International Banking Relationship Manager
1863 Blue Lakes Blvd N Twin Falls, IDÂ 83301
E: [email protected]
M: 208.539.3091
LinkedIn
Shane Hamblin is the Idaho International Banking Manager for Zions Bank. He helps US-based businesses facilitate their global trade. He connects his clients with buyers from global markets and advises them on commercial and standby letters of credit, documentary collections, foreign exchange, foreign direct investments, nostro accounts, international wires, and access to working capital loans and lines for exporters. He started his career in 2003 and has been blessed to know and work with several amazing individuals along the way who have helped shape him into the experienced banker he is today. His banking career has been centered around the agricultural and commercial sectors and is fluent in Italian and Spanish, and loves learning about new cultures – its people, languages, and of course, their food. Â
Ammon Hansen
Shareholder
E: [email protected]
M: 208.370.3325
P: 208.581.8649
LinkedIn
Ammon Hansen helps guide companies on international business matters involving international trade, export controls, enforcement matters, due diligence efforts, sanctions, and disputes. Prior to joining Kirton McConkie, Ammon worked as a Legal Director and Senior Trade Counsel at one of the world’s largest defense contractors advising on global trade and compliance matters, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), and other government regulations.
As a former prosecutor, Ammon also assists companies dealing with government investigations, grand jury and document subpoenas, search warrants, and other government inquiries. He conducts internal investigations for small and large businesses and helps clients navigate state and federal criminal investigations and prosecutions. He has represented companies involved in government investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice, the Idaho Attorney General’s Office, and other federal and state law enforcement.
Mr. Hansen also represents companies involved in complex commercial litigation, business disputes, mass tort and negligence suits, agricultural claims, and insurance coverage litigation.
A licensed U.S. customs broker, Karen founded LSIdaho Inc. in 2000; an international logistics company and customs brokerage firm. In 2016 she sold her business and now teaches import/export procedures as an adjunct professor for the College of Business and Economics at Boise State University. She enjoys spending time with her family – camping, swimming and riding dirt bikes in the beautiful Idaho countryside.
Alison Kelsey
Marketing & International Sales Manager
12000 W. Franklin Road,
Boise, ID 83709
E: [email protected]
P: (208) 426-0659
LinkedIn
Alison Kelsey is the Marketing & International Sales Manager for Rekluse, a motorcycle industry leader in clutch performance, technology, and innovation. Alison oversees a worldwide network of distributors, serving more than 50 countries. In her position, she is responsible for the development of strategy and goals related to international markets. Since joining the company in 2010, Rekluse has earned recognition for its export success. Achievements include the 2012 National SBA Small Business Exporter of the Year and in 2013, the prestigious President’s E Award. Prior to joining Rekluse, Alison previously held positions within the motorcycle industry focused on front-line sales and marketing. She graduated from Boise State University with a BA in Psychology and a Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution.
Mike Long is a Senior Consultant and Project Manager for POWER Engineers’ Federal Global Services department. This includes providing consulting and engineering services to US government agencies and private developers engaged in the international energy industry. Mike has more than 25 years of experience providing technical and commercial support to energy projects in worldwide locations, including contracting of new power plants in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. This has required an extensive involvement in managing the export of professional services and coordination of export/import of power plant components from worldwide sources.
Mike has been responsible for the design and construction of projects funded by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), International Finance Corporation (IFC), Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and several European development banks such as FMO, DEG, and Proparco. He received his B.S. in Mineral/Environmental Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines and his M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado.
Denisse S. Macias
Global Ambassador
Berkshire Hathaway/Silverhawk Realty
473 S Capitol Blvd
Boise, ID 83702
E: [email protected]
P:(208) 859-1460
Web:Â denissemacias.com
LinkedIn
My name is Denisse Macias and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the Idaho District Export Council.
My career in international business began 10 years back working with agricultural companies in Idaho. Helping companies boost their exports abroad gave me the experience of a lifetime in this field. During my time, I had the opportunity to work in many countries; such as India, China, MĂ©xico, Vietnam, Malaysia, Nepal, India amongst a few.
These experiences aligned me directly to what today is my vocation~ International Real Estate.
My goal as the Education & Outreach Committee Chair is to bring awareness to relevant export topics and grow interest in exporting in our state through advocating, mentoring, and educating.
Trish McCarthy
Head of Client Services
Trish has 37 years of experience in the international trade finance and credit and political risk insurance industries. Prior to joining Impello Global, Trish held executive leadership roles with Marsh JLT Specialty, International Risk Consultants, US Bank, PNC Bank, and Chase Bank.
Trish has a reputation in the industry for being honest, clear, and sincere which helps her enjoy long-term and strong relationships with clients and underwriters. With experience in both international letters of credit and export credit insurance policy compliance, Trish has the ability to teach customers how to use these risk mitigation tools to help them grow sales and get paid.
Trish, a native of Dayton, Ohio, relocated to Boise, Idaho in 2020 with her husband Tom, where she enjoys hiking, reading, environmental activism, and becoming an engaged member of her new communities.
Ernesto Pinal
Ernesto Pinal has more than 16 years of experience in the high-tech industry. An engineer by training with a wide exposure to the areas of International Business, Business Development, Product Marketing, Product Development, and Product and Program Management.Â
Ernesto has acquired his professional experience through multiple positions in a diverse pool of large (Motorola & IBM), medium (Printrak International & Universal Electronics), and small organizations (NextScan & Plasmon Data Systems). This exposure has led to a great diversity of business environments and has provided him with a wide vision and understanding of the idiosyncrasies and cultures of International Business.Â
Beginning his professional career in the Data Storage Industry, he later moved into the Biometrics Solutions Industry, then to the Wireless Control Industry, and he is currently engaged in the Document Imaging Industry. He has held the position of General Manager for the SunRise Technology Group, a former Motorola company, Executive Vice President for NextScan, Worldwide Product Manager for the Livescans Biometrics Solutions at Motorola, Director of Channel Sales and Product Management with Plasmon Data Systems, Sr. Program Manager of Core Technologies with Universal Electronics, among a variety of other positions.
Rachel Pusch
Director of Enrollment and Marketing
Riverstone International School
E: [email protected]
P (208) 424-5000 x2104
LinkedIn
Rachel was born in California and grew up in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Karachi, Pakistan. Living in Asia piqued her interest in languages, and she went on to study Asian Studies and Mandarin Chinese at Pomona College, from which she earned her bachelors degree. In addition to teaching English in Taiwan, Rachel’s work experience includes a background in international business and trade, as well as directing international student admissions for the College of Idaho. Rachel joined Riverstone in 2003 and currently serves as the Director of Admissions and Marketing. Rachel’s interests include travel and gardening, and she has an affinity for masks and stylish shoes.
Nancy Richardson
Senior Marketing Specialist
Joe R. Williams (JRW) Building
700 W State St, Boise, ID 83702
Nancy Richardson was the International Tourism Specialist for the State of Idaho with the Department of Commerce in Tourism for over fourteen years. This year, she continues working with Idaho Tourism as the Senior Marketing Specialist and continues to market Idaho as a tourism destination both domestically and internationally.
She previously served as Director of Sales for Hyatt Place, Sales and Marketing Manager with Boise Tours and Boise Shuttle Service as partner in that business, and as a sales manager with the Boise CVB. She has volunteered in a number of organizations and served as officers in most of them; SWITA (Southwest Idaho Travel Association), Preservation Idaho – the Idaho Historic Preservation Council, the Idaho Shakespeare Festival board of trustees, Boise City Arts Commission – Events and Performing Arts board and review panel for Arts and History grant awards.
Nancy has a BS degree from Northern Montana College in Secondary Education – History and Social Science, where she pursued her greatest interests.Â
Derek Rose
Director of International Sales/Marketing
11175 W. Emerald Street,
Boise, ID 83713
E: [email protected]
P: (208) 378-9888
LinkedIn
Derek Rose is VP of Sales & Marketing at AERO Specialties, Inc. He holds a B.A. in Politics & Economics with a concentration in International Political Economies from the College of Idaho. Derek joined AERO Specialties in 2005, and has since managed the sales, marketing and logistical operations surrounding the exportation of American goods to foreign markets. Derek also oversees AERO’s domestic and foreign military sales.
Through his leadership, AERO specialties have seen significant growth in revenue and their capacity to effectively target international customers using online and direct marketing methods. Derek’s multifaceted approach to increasing sales abroad has made him an industry expert; earning AERO several exporting awards, including the 2010 SBA N.W. Region and Idaho Exporter of the Year.
Matt Smith
Vice President
E: [email protected]
P: 208-733-9689
LinkedIn
For the past fifteen years Matt Smith has been exporting environmentally friendly products to over 35 countries worldwide. As Vice President of Hamilton Manufacturing Inc., he had the pleasure to live in South America and Europe while pursuing trading partners. During that time, he received his master’s degree in environmental technologies from the University of Swansea, Wales. He accepted the President’s “E” award on behalf of HMI for international trade in 2016. His lifelong goals include mastering German and Spanish.
Rich Stuppy
VP & Senior Customer Experience Leader
1005 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702
Phone:Â (866) 919-2167
E: [email protected]
P: (208) 489-3385
LinkedIn
For more than a decade Rich has been involved in developing fraud mitigation, compliance, and big data strategies. Rich came to Kount after 14 years with a fortune 50 retailer. His background in enterprise-class systems, machine learning, and analytics has shaped Kount’s technology into an industry leading platform helping clients scale their business while at the same time reducing fraud, risk, and loss.
In his role as Chief Customer Experience Officer, Rich is responsible for client success, data analytics, and ensuring Kount’s users have the best customer experience. Collaborating directly with customers, he works to inform Kount’s product roadmap, identify new and emerging threats, and drive innovation for ultimate customer satisfaction.
Rich regularly works with executives from all areas of the commerce, payments, and fraud-prevention ecosystems to discover trends and develop strategies that create value. Rich is a highly sought-after speaker for industry events and has addressed audiences around the world on several topics surrounding payments and fraud.
Gary Tucker
Launch Manager
studio\Blu at Boise State
1910 University Drive
Boise, ID 83725-1656
E: [email protected]
P: 208-426-3852
LinkedIn
Gary Tucker was named the Launch Manager of studio\Blu at Boise State in August of 2023 and became an official member of the IDEC in February of 2024.Â
Gary is an innovative executive with expert communication skills making the complex simple. With an established track record of assembling high-performing leadership teams and making order out of chaos, Gary is equally comfortable in large corporate and small start-up environments.
Gary has experienced across multiple business models, such as:
– Data and insights
– SaaS
– Hardware / subscription
– Financial Services
Gary has successfully led business growth and exit phases, namely:
– Private Equity Ownership
– Venture Capital backed investors and boards
– Debt financing and Reverse Merger experience
– Corporate / Public entities
– Strategic sale over $100 million
Jennifer Verdon
International Trade Specialist
U.S. Commercial Service Rural Export Center
E: [email protected]
P: (986) 256-2255
LinkedIn
Jennifer Verdon is an International Trade Specialist at the Rural Export Center in Boise, Idaho. She has a B.S. in International Business from Boise State University and completed an Advanced Certificate for Global Trade Development at the Thunderbird School of Global Management. Before joining the Rural Export Center in 2023, Mrs. Verdon served with the Idaho Department of Commerce since 2007. She led promotions for the state for Foreign Direct Investment opportunities. She also planned and/or participated in numerous global trade activities such as Governor-led trade missions, trade shows, inbound buying missions, trade workshops etc. Mrs. Verdon is routinely involved in planning international seminars and workshops while also serving as a member of the Idaho District Export Council and sitting on the board of the State International Development Organizations. At the Rural Export Center, Mrs. Verdon will help exporters with market research, due diligence, website globalization, and export education.Â
Ann L Wood is the president of High Point Aerotechnologies. Previously the Chief Operating Officer of Black Sage Technologies, and Chairman of the Board at JR Wood.
A senior executive experienced in M&A and institutionalizing the structure, processes, and culture to transform startups and stagnant organizations into highly productive, profitable companies. As JR Wood Chairman of the Board, she oversaw the $200 million merger of JR Wood to Dole Foods. At Black Sage Technologies, she was instrumental in two acquisitions. High Point is now globally recognized as an industry leader introducing cutting edge technology impacting CUAS/Drone system development and operations.
A long-time successful fundraiser for local, state, and federal political interests, and recipient of Idaho’s Export award, she is sought after for her influential relationships and ability to partner state and federal government representatives with industry to convert national strategic objectives into reality. Most recently, and to the benefit of all stakeholders, she negotiated a congressional budget incentive to the benefit of the CUAS research and innovation industry.
A compassionate and inspiring leader, Ann is recognized for her ability to harmoniously blend the talents of high functioning staffs to achieve collective corporate objectives.
Ann earned a BS and MBA from Boise State University and a Master of International Diplomacy from Norwich University. She resides with her husband and two children in Idaho.