Whatcom Young Professionals is a program of the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce and abides by the Chamber’s policies, code of regulations, articles of incorporation, and all other governing documents, as informed by the Chamber Liaison. The Whatcom YP program is managed by a volunteer Advisory Council composed of Whatcom YP members.
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Membership Co-Chair
As Barron Heating, AC, Electrical & Plumbing’s Chief Executive Officer, Brad lives by a servant leadership philosophy—and always with a joke to share. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from the University of Washington (go Dawgs!), he spent a number of years as a Professional Engineer before bringing his experience to the Barron Team. Since joining Barron in 2017, Brad has spearheaded the expansion into full plumbing and electrical services, solar, and helped launch the Barron Technician School (BTS). Born and raised in Bellingham, he enjoys spending time outside with his family (wife and three sons) and friends—hiking, boating, skiing, and camping. Brad is a Volkswagen enthusiast and enjoys time behind the wheel of his 1979 Westfalia Camper.
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Events Committee
I’ve lived in Bellingham since I was 13 years old and ever since then; it’s where I’ve called home, especially now that I’m in a career where I get to be so connected with our community. As the Director of Client & Community Outreach with the Cohen Group NW, I get to do all things marketing, content creation, event coordination and client care for our team! When I’m not at work or WYPs, I’m either volunteering as an advisor for a local junior sorority where I get to mentor girls ages 10-20, doing something fun in the realm of comic book geekery, or spending quality time with my sisters and friends.
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Member Engagement & Events
I am a marketing representative at Whatcom Land Title and joined Whatcom YP two years ago. Since then I have been motivated to involve others in the benefits an organization like this has to offer.
The excitement I have for connecting people is something I hope will inspire others and help them grow as professionals. Growing up in Whatcom County I still marvel at the beauty of it every day. Enjoy spending time with family, spoiling my dog, and trying all the outdoor activities this area has to offer.
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Membership Co-Chair
I am a real estate agent with The Cohen Group NW and have been helping people buy and sell real estate since 2017 here in Whatcom County. I became a member of Whatcom Young Professionals around that same time and have remained engaged with the organization due to both the professional and social benefits I have experienced. I enjoy filling my free time with an ever changing blend of outdoor activities, time with my partner Natalia, and kicking back with friends and family.
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Member At Large
Professionally, I’m a local mortgage lender with RWM Home Loans, providing home financing and education to help you win the home you love. I have an affinity for Bellingham, which is why I chose WWU and localize my professional life to grow here! The environment and people keep me active and excited to stay. My goals this year are to develop more relationships, grow professionally, and get really good at making coffee.
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Operations Administrator
In his free time, Matt is an avid outdoors enthusiast and can often be found biking, hiking, skiing, playing pickleball, or spending time with his fiancé, Amber, and their dog Leo. Together they are always looking for new adventures and new friends to explore Whatcom County with. Matt looks forward to bringing a strong work ethic and a passion for sustainable development and business growth to the table as a member of the WYPs Advisory Council.
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Community Engagement – Education
In my free time, my husband Greg and I love to spend time on the water. Lake Whatcom, Bellingham Bay or just a beach on Lummi Island is where we find the most happiness. Of course our dog, Goose tags along in every adventure we find ourselves in. I look forward to the conversations, connections and positive impact WYPs will have on this community.
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Member At Large
I am a Realtor and have been licensed with RE/MAX Whatcom County for over 5 years. Since purchasing my first home at the age of 21, my goal has been to help others pursue their dream homeownership. I truly believe that owning real estate will help transform your life, community, and create generational wealth. I came to find out about WYPs through being nominated and becoming a finalist for their Top 7 under 40 award in 2022. This is such an awesome organization and I’m eager to see how I can help contribute to their mission with my experience and expertise.
Outside real estate, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, reading a good book, hiking around the PNW, and listening to thought-provoking podcasts.
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Member At Large
As a New York Life Agent, I sincerely believe that every person wants to, and can, meet their goals: their financial goals, their personal goals, and goals within their community. I believe in working together to create wholistic, lifelong strategies combining education, protection solutions, and consistent growth. Lastly, I believe in working with people starting at any point in their journey to meet their goals. In fact, that’s exactly why I joined New York Life.
As a part of the LGBTQ+ community, I share the hopes, and challenges, my clients, and our community face, and I am happy to share with you all the resources and information I, and New York Life, have to offer. Based on your needs, we can find several ways to help protect your family and loved ones, prepare for major financial events, such as buying a home, planning for retirement, or caring for aging loved ones and creating a strategy for long-term care. As a professional, I specialize in recognizing and integrating the unique financial needs of the LGBTQ+ community – their families and allies – into highly personalized solutions and plans. By leading with education, I ensure that as we design solutions, created to fit your needs, you can be confident in understanding how your can work best for you.
To be the best possible agent, I want to get to know you and work with you on the most important first step in your financial plan, having a conversation with someone you can trust. So, if you’re looking for someone who will help you reach your goals, book a free appointment today and let’s start working together!
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Marketing Committee
I’m a local business owner here in Bellingham, and have been a member of Whatcom YP for the last 5 years (and counting!)
A self-proclaimed “marketing geek”, I absolutely love helping small businesses and organizations meet their marketing needs in a fun and creative way.
In my spare time, I’m an avid woodworker and DIY-er, and as a baseball fan I love attending Seattle Mariners and Bellingham Bells games any time I’m able.
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Operations & Communication
After graduating from Western Washington University (Go Vikings!), I was lucky enough to stay in Whatcom County. I love this community and I’m still finding things it has to offer. I currently work as a Personal Banker with WaFd Bank. I’ve been with WYPs for four years, and through the connections I’ve made in this group, I’ve found a job and career I love. You could say I’m a WYPs success story!
When at home, you can find me crocheting, sewing, or completing jigsaw puzzles, as well as having quality snuggle time with my fluffy cat while watching a show. When I’m out of the house I enjoy spending time with people and getting to know them, typically through trivia and game nights.
Now in my second year on the Advisory Council as the Treasurer, I’m excited to see what this year brings. I look forward to meeting you at one of our events soon!
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Marketing Committee
Nickole and her husband met in 2010 while he was stationed on Whidbey Island. They currently live in Bellingham with their dog, Maggy. They enjoy outdoor adventures with the pup, visiting local restaurants, and binge-watching a good show. You’ll see them cheering on her dad and team during the never-ending race season, repping her Nickole Murphy brand across Washington.
Nickole is a Loan Officer with The Collective at CrossCountry Mortgage. She works with her clients to help them achieve financial wealth through real estate.
She joined WYPs in 2022 to network and connect with other younger professionals and is excited to be on the Marketing Committee.
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Community Engagement Lead