Staff

David Terry

David Terry cofounded the WTAMU Enterprise Center with his mentor, Mr. Don Taylor. David is an entrepreneur and sought-after speaker and trainer. He attained his MBA from West Texas A&M University in 2000, and has received CEG certification in 2009 through Coach University.

In addition to coaching entrepreneurs, David leads the WTAMU Enterprise Center as Executive Director. He is treasurer of the National Business Incubation Association board of directors and a member of its executive committee. In 2009, David was chosen by the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce as a recipient of the inaugural Top 20 Under 40 award for business leaders. He also owns ChopChop Japanese Steakhouse.

Jeff Reid

Jeff Reid is a long-time resident of the Texas Panhandle. His experiences as a banker and small business owner have uniquely positioned him to understand the many issues his clients face on a daily basis. Jeff has received CEG certification in 2010 through Coach University and pursing a Master of Science degree in economic development & entrepreneurship from the University of Houston in Victoria.

In addition to his coaching responsibilities, as Incubator Director Jeff manages the Enterprise Center’s day-to-day operations, monitors and evaluates client performance within the incubator program, and assists in the development and implementation of client training programs. He is keenly interested in helping his clients achieve their personal goals.

Melissa Kalka

Melissa Kalka grew up in an entrepreneurial family in Amarillo. She owned and managed the Kitchen Gallery, a boutique kitchen retail outlet and commercial kitchen, for more than 20 years. Melissa served as the Client Services Coordinator for the WT Enterprise Center for two years before stepping into the role of Kitchen Manager. She will be coordinating the shared-use commercial kitchen facilities as well as assisting in developing incubation programs specifically focused on the commercial food industry.

Drew Whipple

Drew Whipple has 10 years’ experience in the construction industry and 22 years’ experience in turf grass/lawn maintenance. He attained a Bachelor of Science degree from West Texas A&M University in 1991.

As a former business owner, Drew can empathize with the needs of entrepreneurs. He
serves as the Facilities Supervisor for the WTAMU Enterprise Center, working diligently to maintain facilities and to create a great working environment for entrepreneurs to start and grow.

Brian Whipple

Brian Whipple received his BBA in Marketing from West Texas A&M University in 2010, and has now filled the position of Program Coordinator at the WT Enterprise Center. In this position, Brian assists in the implementation of the programs at the WT Enterprise Center in order to build the entrepreneurial community. Brian will be starting and managing the coworking space for the WT Enterprise Center, and will be assisting pre-incubation entrepreneurs through early stage trainings and programs. Brian also fills the role of social media manager, and assists in other day-to-day marketing efforts.

 

Kyla Frye

Kyla Frye is a recent graduate of West Texas A&M University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree cum laude in mass communications with an emphasis in advertising and public relations.  She was a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, the Chi Omega Women’s Fraternity, the Order of Omega, and the Panhellenic Council.

As the Communications and Marketing Coordinator, Kyla is responsible for coordinating and maintaining the marketing, public relations, communications and social media implementations. She is also responsible for maintaining the brand image in collaboration with the Executive Director, as well as  developing and maintaining regional events and enhancing regional collaboration.