Jamestown Airport Director Katie Hemmer Named to Statewide Women to Watch List

Katie Hemmer, director of Jamestown Regional Airport and a former two-term mayor of Jamestown, has been named to the Greater North Dakota Chamber's 2026 "Women to Know and Watch in ND Business" list, a statewide recognition honoring professionals driving results across North Dakota's business community.

The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) announced the list, which recognizes leaders for their ability to lead within their organizations and industries while contributing to the broader North Dakota business landscape. Honorees represent a wide range of sectors and are selected based on communication, work ethic and commitment to results.

"Strong businesses are built by strong leaders. These women are stepping forward, solving problems, and helping move North Dakota's business community forward," said Amanda Remynse, GNDC vice president of strategic engagement. "The Women to Know are making an impact today, and the Women to Watch represent the next wave of leadership. We look forward to celebrating their accomplishments with the business community."

Hemmer's public profile in Stutsman County extends well beyond the airport. She first ran for mayor of Jamestown at age 28, a decision she has described in direct terms. "I made the choice to run for public office at the age of 28, because I did not see anyone else stepping forward to provide the dynamic leadership and prioritization of economic growth I thought the community deserved," Hemmer said. She served as mayor from 2010 to 2018, an eight-year tenure she has called one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.

Her perspective on women's leadership is equally pointed. "The new generation of women leaders can be the fresh energy so desperately needed for a business, a community, or an organization to grow. You can balance any perceived lack of experience with intelligence, vigor, hard work, and creativity," Hemmer has said, encouraging young women to pursue leadership roles in both their careers and their communities.

GNDC will formally recognize Hemmer and the other honorees at the Women to Know List & Luncheon in Bismarck on Tuesday, May 12, from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online or by contacting GNDC directly.