The Stick Tap Salute program, introduced in 2019, celebrates individuals making a difference in Minnesota hockey. Securian Financial first partnered with the Wild in 2018 to raise awareness of our brand. Seven years later, the partnership continues to thrive, reflecting our shared St. Paul roots, deep connections to Minnesota’s hockey community and strong community values.

Nate was recognized during the game with an on-ice tribute, a highlight video and a commemorative Securian Financial and Minnesota Wild co-branded hockey stick.

The appreciation was fun for Nate and his family, which includes his wife Karissa, who has embraced being a “hockey mom,” and his children Savannah, aged 11 and Hayden, 9, who both play the game.

“Hockey has been a significant part of my life for many years. I've been deeply involved in the sport, primarily through coaching my kids and serving on the board of the Lakeville Hockey Association.”

Nate started volunteering as the goalie coordinator after watching his daughter play in that position. “It’s a position that can often feel isolating,” he said. He works closely with coaches and players to evaluate performance, provide mentorship and foster growth throughout the organization.

“Our family truly has a love for the game,” he said. “Getting to share hockey with them and watch them develop in the sport I love has been a great joy.”

For Nate, the game of hockey embodies much of what he values. “It's the ultimate team sport requiring skill, effort, resilience and strategic thinking to excel. These same qualities drive success in life and in work,” he said.

At work, Nate leads the Employee Benefits Solution (EBS) Compliance team, where they strive to ensure the business moves forward in a compliant, strategic and disciplined way.

“The principles that make hockey successful – teamwork, creativity, adaptability and supporting each other to achieve common goals – directly translate to how we operate in EBS. Just as a hockey team needs every player working in sync, our work requires seamless collaboration across the organization to enable business success while maintaining the highest standards.”