Shreveport, LA – The Young Professionals Initiative (YPI) of Northwest Louisiana, a program of the Greater Shreveport Chamber, has named Jonathan Wheelis as the 2024 Young Professional of the Year. The award was presented during the 18th Annual 40 Under Forty Awards and Gala, held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino.
Jonathan Wheelis, a licensed professional engineer, serves as Operations Manager for Expand Energy Corporation, where he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the natural gas industry. Known for designing and optimizing processes that prioritize safety, efficiency, and sustainability, Wheelis is a vocal advocate for sound energy policy and its positive impact on local, state, and global communities. His expertise earned him an invitation from Speaker Mike Johnson to represent energy workers at this year’s State of the Union Address.
Beyond his professional achievements, Wheelis is a dedicated husband, father of two, and mentor to young engineers. He actively engages with his industry to stay informed about advancements and shares his knowledge with future leaders in the field.
“We are proud to recognize Jonathan Wheelis as the YPI Young Professional of the Year,” said Dr. Tim Magner, President of the Greater Shreveport Chamber. “Jonathan exemplifies the leadership, vision, and community engagement that define this prestigious honor. With professionals like him shaping our community’s future, Shreveport-Bossier is in excellent hands.”
Celebrating Excellence: 40 Under Forty Awards
The 40 Under Forty Awards honor young professionals who excel in their careers, education, professional development, community leadership, and volunteer efforts. Among the 40 honorees, one individual is chosen for the Young Professional of the Year Award to recognize outstanding contributions across these categories.
Meet the 2024 40 Under Forty Honorees:
- Madeline Barclay – LSU Health Shreveport
- Faron Blaney – Sagacity Solutions LLC
- Hannah Bourque – Bonvenu Bank
- Kasey Brown – Hancock Whitney Bank
- Victoria Charles – Victory Heartsaver Academy
- Kalli Combs – Social Pal Kal
- Alexandria Coner – KSLA News 12
- Marcus Dawson – Action Mobility Services
- Matthew Dixon – Shreveport Police Department
- Kristina Douglas – City of Shreveport, Office of the City Attorney
- Drayden Dunn – Envision Media & Marketing
- Raavin Evans – United Way of Northwest Louisiana
- Megan Flavin – LSU Health Shreveport – School of Allied Health
- Talicia Gaskin – Brentwood Hospital
- Jessica Hall – Northwestern State University Child & Family Network
- Anjelica Hart – Southern University at Shreveport
- Matthew Hefner – Willis Knighton Health
- Ida Henderson – Henderson Construction Services, Inc.
- Kysianna James – Department of Defense
- Craig Johnson – Lifeologie Counseling Agency
- Garrett Johnson – Community Foundation of North Louisiana
- Spencer Lamb – Heard, McElroy & Vestal, LLC
- Matthew Lee – Bradley Murchison Kelly & Shea
- Michelle Lindholm – Caddo Career & Technology Center (Caddo Parish School Board)
- Kyle Loyd – The Colony House of Flowers
- Thomas Jacob Maddox – Benton Fire District #4
- Kanya Michelle – Shreveport Biscuit Company / Local Market on Line Ave
- Exzavia Mitchell – Shreveport Regional Arts Council
- Angela Myles – Louisiana State University Shreveport
- Mary Oates – House of Carpets and Lighting
- Nick Oliver – Regions Bank
- Jordan Pearson – Forte & Tablada, Inc.
- Whittney Polley – The Providence House
- Laurie Priftis – LSU Health Sciences Foundation
- Deborah Smith – Louisiana State University Health Science Shreveport
- Michelle Sorrells – Charter Schools USA – Louisiana, Magnolia School of Excellence
- Emily Watkins – Pediatric Therapy Partners
- Jonathan Wheelis – Expand Energy Corporation
- Jacinda White – Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office
- Allison Youngblood – Seeds in Action Community Health Care, Inc.
For more information about YPI or the 40 Under Forty Awards, visit Greater Shreveport Chamber.