As the CEO and owner of Award Staffing for 20 years, Thomas Thissen has demonstrated unwavering dedication and a keen ability to lead through a myriad of challenges, resulting in sustained organizational profitability, with 7.8% growth over the last five years. Today, the Edina firm is a nationally recognized agency with five locations in the Twin Cities. Thissen prioritizes community stewardship and volunteerism, which earned him the American Staffing Association’s Cares Award in 2023. He’s an active volunteer with Cornerstone, Avivio, The Link, the Wilder Foundation, and Every Meal. Award Staffing’s latest leadership program, Dare to Lead, encourages team members to embrace courage and vulnerability in the workplace. Colleagues say he leads with empathy, integrity, and foresight, inspiring excellence and innovation among employees.