Our Team
Bryan Venable
Executive Director
Bryan Venable has served as the Executive Director of the Panhandle Area Development District (PADD) since September 2020, following his promotion from Business Resources and Social Enterprise Fund Manager, a role he held beginning in 2016.
Read More
Bryan earned his degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. After completing his education, he built a strong foundation in the building materials industry, including five years as manager of Century Lumber in Scottsbluff.
In addition to his private-sector experience, Bryan has been actively involved in community-focused initiatives, including working with the PALS program to support disadvantaged youth across the Nebraska Panhandle. His diverse professional background reflects a commitment to economic development, workforce support, and strengthening communities throughout the region.
David Welanko
Grant Manager
David Welanko is settling into the Nebraska Panhandle after spending the past 15 years in Alaska. He holds a Communications degree from Adams State University and brings a diverse professional background that includes 10 years in the oil and gas industry, experience as a social worker with DHHS, and time in education.
Read More
David also served two years in Guyana as a Peace Corps Volunteer, gaining valuable international and community development experience.
David feels most at home in the Panhandle—drawn to its wide-open landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture. In the warmer months, he and his family make a weekly tradition of running the Monument, followed by enjoying good food and outdoor live music under the open sky.
Kyle Keller
Community Consultant
Kyle was raised in the Nebraska Panhandle, where early exposure to the agricultural and construction industries helped support his pursuit of higher education. He earned his degree in psychology and organizational management from Chadron State College.
Read More
Kyle brings more than a decade of experience in higher education and human services, working in inner-city metropolitan communities to support students, families, and underserved populations in achieving their academic and career goals. His background includes advising, teaching, and developing partnerships and policies that connect institutions with local communities—always with a focus on practical, people-centered outcomes.
This work has naturally expanded into a broader interest in economic and community development across the Nebraska Panhandle. Kyle has a deep appreciation for the Sandhills and High Plains region, recognizing it as a place defined by resilience, ingenuity, and strong community ties. Returning to the region has only reinforced that perspective.
And, corny but true, his favorite part of the Nebraska Panhandle is the quiet ambience of the prairie at sunrise over the plains.
Upcoming Meetings
PADD board meetings take place in person the second Thursday of the month at noon. The meetings are open to the public and are located at Cirrus House in Scottsbluff.
Events
-
-
PADD Board Meeting
Cirrus House Conference Room 1506 First Avenue, Scottsbluff, NEStay informed, connect with regional leaders, and be part of the conversations shaping the future of Nebraska's Panhandle. Have questions or want to learn more? Contact the PADD team.
-
-
PADD Board Meeting
Cirrus House Conference Room 1506 First Avenue, Scottsbluff, NEStay informed, connect with regional leaders, and be part of the conversations shaping the future of Nebraska's Panhandle. Have questions or want to learn more? Contact the PADD team.
-
-
PADD Board Meeting
Cirrus House Conference Room 1506 First Avenue, Scottsbluff, NEStay informed, connect with regional leaders, and be part of the conversations shaping the future of Nebraska's Panhandle. Have questions or want to learn more? Contact the PADD team.