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Episode Summary
In this episode of Elevated Access, host Chad Hughes is joined by Jake Farrell of Omaha Public Power District and Mindy Leadholm of Washington County Public Works to preview the upcoming International Right of Way Association International Education Conference in Omaha, Nebraska. As conference co-chairs, Jake and Mindy share their professional journeys into the Right of Way industry, highlighting how mentorship, education, and association involvement helped shape their careers and leadership paths within IRWA. Their stories reflect a common theme across the profession: many find their way into Right of Way unexpectedly but stay because of the relationships, impact, and opportunities the industry offers.
Episode Notes
The conversation also explores the importance of IRWA Region 3 and the chapters that make up the Midwest corridor, including Minnesota, the Dakotas, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas City, and St. Louis. With increasing demand for electric transmission and large-scale infrastructure development, the region is seeing significant growth in energy infrastructure and land acquisition activity. Jake discusses how rising electrical loads driven by AI and data center expansion are creating new transmission needs across the Midwest, while Mindy shares insights from the public sector side, working on roadway easements and community-focused projects.
Jake and Mindy also provide an inside look at what attendees can expect at the 2026 IRWA International Education Conference in Omaha. From the “Gateway to the West” conference theme to unique events like the welcome reception at the Henry Doorly Zoo and the Finnegan Fun Run crossing two states, the conference is designed to highlight both professional development and the culture of the Midwest. With more than 70 education sessions, networking opportunities, and a strong regional volunteer effort behind it, the event promises valuable learning and connection opportunities for Right of Way professionals across the industry.
“Come with a mentality of curiosity. Omaha has a lot to offer, and if you come looking for it, you’re going to find it.” — Jake Farrell
For more information on the IRWA 72nd Annual International Education Conference in Omaha from June 26 to 29, 2026, visit their website.
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About Mindy Leadholm:
Mindy J. Leadholm, SR/WA – Mindy is a Property Acquisition Manager for the Washington County Public Works Department in Minnesota. She’s worked at Washington County for 18 years and has been a member of IRWA for all of those 18 years. Within Chapter 20, Mindy is a past Chapter Education Chair (2011 – 2020), Secretary (2014 – 2015), Treasurer (2015 – 2016), President Elect (2016 -2017), President (2017 – 2019), and Director (2019 – 2020). Within IRWA Region 3, Mindy is a past Secretary/Treasurer (2020 – 2021), Region Vice Chair (2021 – 2023), and Region Chair (2023 – 2025). She is currently one of the co-chairs of the 2026 IRWA Education Conference in Omaha later this year.
- Mindy Leadholm on LinkedIn
About Jacob Farrell:
Jake Farrell, SR/WA, is the Manager of Real Property and Land Management for Omaha Public Power District. Jake has been a member of the IRWA for ~20 years, and has served in all leadership roles at the chapter, region, and international levels during this time. Jake was the international president of the IRWA in 2021-2022. He is currently one of the co-chairs of the 2026 IRWA International Education Conference in Omaha this coming June!
- Jake Farrell on LinkedIn
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Chad Hughes | CEO, Entrepreneurial Leader, Author: Website |LinkedIn
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