Meet the Team

  • John Steffanic

    Chairman

    John, a dedicated Plumas County resident and serial entrepreneur, has long dreamed of establishing an organization to support the export of local products. After the Dixie Fire, he saw an opportunity to realize this dream and give back to the community. This led to the creation of IVIH, where John focuses on connecting product developers with experts and fostering a local distributorship.

  • Lara Wheeler

    Executive Director & Treasurer

    Lara, deeply rooted in Greenville with a maritime and oil spill response background, brings diverse experience to her role at IVIH. Her passion for disaster recovery led her to aid Indian Valley after the Dixie Fire, connecting survivors and businesses with crucial resources. Now at IVIH, she focuses on empowering entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable growth.

  • Clint Koble

    Advocacy Director & Secretary

    Clint, a recognized leader in rural development and small business support, has provided business owners with essential skills and resources. His passion for economic development and disaster recovery shone through his work during the Dixie Fire response, earning him the prestigious SBDC State Star Award in 2022.

  • Jake Williams

    Technology Director

    With over a decade of experience in software development and IT support, as well as a life-long love for the outdoors and mountains of Plumas County, Jake has always sought solutions through technical implementations. He bridges the gap between his love of art and design and function to achieve incredible solutions.

  • Ted Stout

    Committee Member

    A Crescent Mills resident and Cal Poly Pomona alumni, majoring in mechanical engineering and materials engineering. Worked in the software industry, primarily in startups, focusing on developing and improving new products with Fortune 500 companies. Ted brings experience in product innovation and long-term planning to the organization.