The Big Sky Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the outstanding finalists for the 2026 Black Diamond Awards! These annual awards recognize the individuals, organizations, and businesses that help shape the spirit of Big Sky through leadership, innovation, service, and a deep commitment to our community.
From entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders to business visionaries and longtime community champions, each nominee represents the passion, resilience, and collaborative spirit that make Big Sky such a remarkable place to live, work, and visit.
We are honored to celebrate the people and organizations whose dedication continues to strengthen and inspire our mountain community.
Let’s meet the incredible finalists for the 2026 Black Diamond Awards!
Emerging Entrepreneur Award
This award recognizes a business person who has brought fresh entrepreneurial energy, innovation, and engagement to the Big Sky business community.
Tim Baldwin – Mountain Mule Transportation
Tim Baldwin is the owner of Mountain Mule Transportation and host of Mountain Mule Media, a podcast celebrating the stories, businesses, and people of Southwest Montana. Through more than 100 podcast episodes and a growing presence in the region’s tourism and transportation landscape, Tim is committed to creating meaningful experiences and genuine connections throughout the community.
Heather Ross – Sugar & Spice Florals
Heather Ross is the owner of Sugar & Spice Florals, an upscale floral design studio and retail shop specializing in weddings, events, and everyday arrangements. Inspired by the untamed beauty of the Mountain West, Heather has built a business known for intricate, elevated floral design and has become a valued part of the Big Sky community.
Patrick Griffith – Blue Moon Bakery
Patrick Griffith is a veteran and entrepreneur who believes strong communities are built through service, leadership, and genuine connection. Through Blue Moon Bakery, Patrick is passionate about creating opportunities, helping others succeed, and giving back to the community that continues to support him.
Leader in Sustainability Award
This award celebrates an individual or organization that has shown exceptional dedication to environmental stewardship, sustainable practices, and the preservation of Big Sky's natural beauty for future generations.
Amber Smith – Revitalized Restoration
Amber Smith is the Founder and President of Revitalized Restoration LLC, Montana’s first woman-owned restoration company. Amber leads her team with a focus on compassionate service, community involvement, and innovative, sustainable practices that are uncommon in the restoration industry, helping to raise the standard for environmental responsibility and care.
Rich Chandler, Kramer Bauer, Loren Franklin, Jeff Cadry – Lone Mountain Land Company
Rich Chandler has spent more than 25 years helping care for the land and communities of Big Sky through thoughtful environmental management, stewardship, and sustainable conservation practices. He and his Environmental Operations team for Lone Mountain Land Company remain deeply committed to protecting Southwest Montana’s natural resources for future generations.
Ennion Williams – Big Sky Trout / Outlaw Partners
Ennion Williams serves as Vice President of Events for Outlaw Partners, helping produce major community events including Big Sky PBR and Wildlands Festival. A longtime advocate for conservation and transportation initiatives, Ennion has also served as Chair of the Big Sky Transportation Board and the Gallatin River Task Force while continuing his work as a fly-fishing guide and outfitter in Southwest Montana.
Master of Making it Happen Award
This award recognizes an individual who consistently goes above and beyond, demonstrating exceptional initiative, leadership, and a talent for turning ideas into reality within the Big Sky community.
Sarah Blechta – BSRAD / Lone Mountain Land Company
A Big Sky native, Sarah Blechta continues to invest deeply in the community that raised her. In addition to serving as Vice President of Lone Mountain Management and overseeing nearly 40 property associations throughout the area, Sarah recently completed eight years of service on the Big Sky Resort Area District board, helping shape projects and initiatives that benefit the broader community.
John Zirkle – Warren Miller Performing Arts Center / BSRAD
John Zirkle is the Founding Director of the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center, where he has helped bring more than 375 programs to Big Sky, serving over 100,000 people. In addition to his leadership at WMPAC and service on the BSRAD board, John continues to inspire students daily through music and drama education at Lone Peak High School.
Kelly Halmes – Big Sky Medical Center
Kelly Halmes has been part of Big Sky Medical Center since its opening 10 years ago, beginning as a nurse before stepping into the role of hospital administrator in 2024. Through her leadership and dedication to community healthcare, Kelly continues to help ensure residents and visitors alike have access to exceptional care in Big Sky.
Nonprofit Business Person of the Year Award
This award honors an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and impact through nonprofit work that strengthens and supports the Big Sky community.
Amy Vance – Big Sky Bandage
Amy Vance is a nurse practitioner and the founder and volunteer director of Big Sky Bandage, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local residents and workers facing unexpected medical expenses. Through compassion and advocacy, Amy has created a vital resource for community members navigating difficult circumstances.
Madeleine Feher – BSCO
After first discovering Big Sky following college, Madeleine Feher built a two-decade career in hospitality at Big Sky Resort before transitioning into community-focused work with BSCO. With experience spanning education, hospitality, and community leadership, Madeleine is passionate about creating programs and opportunities that strengthen connection and quality of life in Big Sky.
Anna Shipley – Moonlight Community Foundation
Anna Shipley has helped guide the growth of Moonlight Community Foundation as it continues supporting youth education, conservation efforts, and underserved populations throughout Big Sky. Through semi-annual grantmaking and community partnerships, Anna and the Foundation are helping to sustain a vibrant, thriving future for the region.
Business Person of the Year Award
This award honors an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and business excellence while making a significant impact on the Big Sky community.
Todd Rossier – Two Bear Construction
Todd Rossier’s leadership at Two Bear Construction reflects a commitment to quality craftsmanship, strong relationships, and contributing to the continued growth and development of the Big Sky community.
Jim Delzer – Delzer Diversified
As Vice President of Delzer Diversified, Jim Delzer helps carry forward a family legacy built on entrepreneurship, hospitality, service, and community involvement. Under the Delzer family’s leadership, the company has grown into a diverse network of businesses that has served Big Sky for decades.
Chad Wilson – Big Sky Resort
Chad Wilson serves as Vice President of Development & Construction at Big Sky Resort, helping lead transformative infrastructure projects, including the new tram and gondola. Beyond his professional role, Chad remains actively involved in organizations and initiatives that support the future of the Big Sky community.
Business of the Year Award
This award recognizes a business that has demonstrated overall excellence, outstanding service, strong leadership, and a meaningful positive impact on the Big Sky community.
Big Sky Resort
As the region’s flagship destination resort, Big Sky Resort continues to invest in transformative guest experiences, infrastructure, and community partnerships while helping shape the future of tourism and recreation in Big Sky.
Big Sky Print & Ship
Big Sky Print & Ship has become a trusted local business by consistently providing reliable service, community support, and essential resources for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
Cornerstone Management Services
Cornerstone Management Services has built a strong reputation for professionalism, stewardship, and dedication to serving homeowners and the broader Big Sky community through exceptional property management services.
