Dr. Les Cook is the recently retired 12th chancellor of Montana Technological University. During his six years of leadership, Montana Tech has cemented a reputation as one of the nation’s top STEM institutions. His student-first, community building approach has been transformative for campus life and student success.

We sat down with Les, almost literally, on his way out of Butte to reflect on his time as Chancellor. He shares his journey from ranch-life without electricity, to chance meetings that changed the trajectory of his career. He explains how the mining culture of Butte feels serendipitous, the value of family, and how every leader should frisbee pizzas into crowds when the opportunity exists.

Our first bonus episode of the summer is a heartfelt, fun, and inspiring conversation with a proven leader whose impacts will continue to be felt in the Montana Tech and Butte community well into the future.

Of all the places, Les Cook calls Salt Lake City home… or Houghton, Michigan… but we all know it’s really Butte, Montana.