Jim Haar, CEO and General Manager

Jim Haar joined Golden West Technologies in 2000 as the controller and has been part of the exceptional growth experienced by Golden West.  Prior to joining Golden West, Jim worked in the defense industry as a financial analyst.  Out of college he was an auditor for a regional bank.  Mr. Haar brings a wide variety of business experience depth to the team. Jim has a BS in accounting from Northern State University.

Nick Rogness, CEO and General Manager - Golden West Internet Solutions

Nick Rogness has 10+ years of experience working in the Service Provider industry specializing in ISP systems, networks, and advanced service delivery. Prior to coming to Golden West in 2001, Nick consulted for international power companies, dot-com startups, chemical companies, and backbone providers. Nick is in charge of both Retail and Wholesale Internet product lines with focus on the rural telecommunications market. Nick holds a BS in Computer Science from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.

James Van Loan, Sales Manager

James Van Loan brings more than 16 years of experience in working with organizations of all sizes and industries. He has provided data network assessments consultations to hundreds of organizations to arm them with building a solid infrastructure of technology that support their organizational objectives. By creating a vision for how technology can increase productivity while securing critical assets have made James a valuable team leader in bringing a consultative approach to each project. James attended Black Hills State University for Business Administration. He is a certified Solutions Professional in Microsoft, HP, Citrix, and Cisco.

Ben Grupe, Operations Manager

Ben Grupe has a BS in Computer Information Systems from Dakota State University, and has been in the IT industry for 7 years. Previously he was the Network Administrator for Golden West Telecommunications based out of Wall, SD.

Bob Dunfee, Controller

Robert "Bob" Dunfee is the Controller for Golden West Technologies and Internet Solutions.  Bob joined the team in January 1997, during the fledgling years of the Internet, as the Staff Accountant for RapidNet/PCAssociates.  Bob attended South Dakota and California colleges and has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and graduate work in Government Contract Management and Procurement. 

Randy Thomas, Director of Business Development

Randy retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the U.S. Army in 1999—Our Nation’s premier land combat force and senior military service.  He joined Golden West in 2000 and currently serves as Director of Business Development.  Randy is responsible for seeking and developing business relationships and partnerships.  He also has operational responsibility for the Golden West NOC and i-Witness family of services.  Randy has a B.A. from the University of North Dakota, an M. Ed. From Boston University, and is a Microsoft Certified System Engineer.