Steven J. Peterson

I have lived in Oakland, NE my whole life. That is where I was raised by father and mother, Del and Joanne Peterson, who founded Del Peterson and Associates back in 1972. I graduated from Oakland, NE and headed to study and play football at the University of Omaha Nebraska. After an injury and the recommendation of my father I left to go work at Del Peterson and Associates in 1984. I learned a lot from my dad in those years about what makes a great leader, business, entrepreneurship, and pleasing our customers. I eventually became acting CEO in 1994. Since then we have built our organization into an international auction company, moved our services online, and abbreviated our name to DPA Auctions. Just like my father did for me, I wanted to provide for my family. My favorite things in life are taking trips to Disney World, being a pilot, and spending time with my wife and 4 kids.  

Brandon Peterson

Growing up I had the opportunity to watch my grandfather Del Peterson hand off the company to my father Steve Peterson and build it into the family oriented company it is today. I grew up in Oakland, NE, a small town in northeast Nebraska. There I learned about community and what it means to love and work for your neighbor. It is that philosophy that I carried over into my business life. I graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University with a major in Business Administration and minor in Psychology. I have experience in the gym industry, coworking and consulting industry, security industry, and nonprofit sector. Through my work experience I have learned to appreciate the customer above all else because without them there is no business. I have a wife, son, another son on the way, and two dogs. In our free time we love to travel. An experience is worth more to us than any tangible thing this world can give.

Steve Prenzlow

Growing up in the small town of Snyder, Nebraska, I learned the ins and outs of my father’s meat processing business.  With two brothers already involved in the family business, I headed to college to get a degree in Business from the University of Nebraska – Omaha.  My best decision was to marry my high school sweetheart, Kim.  We have been blessed with three children; Nick, Grant, and Morgan – all married.  Currently, we have six grandchildren.  In 1987, I began working with Del Peterson & Associates.  I attended the “Del Peterson” School of Auctioneers.  Del took me into his office and had me “sell” everything from pens to caps to his desk, until I passed the test!   Even more than auctioneering, I love all the relationships I have built over the years with people from “mom and pop” companies to the big conglomerates.  When I am not on the road, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends at the lake or on the golf course. 

Doug Rickett

Growing up in the small town of Ponca, located in Northeast Nebraska, I have always been involved in agriculture – row crop farming, farrow to finish hog operation and a cow/calf operation. My wife, Jody, and I have lived our whole lives just outside of the city limits where we raised our family of four children-now all married.  We get to enjoy our 7 grandchildren on a daily basis.  I truly believe there is no better place to raise a family than the farm life of small-town Nebraska.  In 1986, I attended auction school and have been involved in auctions ever since.  My tenure with DPA Auctions began in 1989 and has been a great fit as my primary focus at the company is with our agriculture clients.  I enjoy meeting with clients and have formed many long-standing business relationships.  It’s interest to see how similar operations vary and work efficiently.   With so many miles traveled up and down the road, I have earned the nickname “King of the Road.”   The auction business, like so many other things, has seen many changes.  It’s still a joy to work through the challenges, meet more people and see more highway.  I am looking forward to several more years at DPA Auctions and hopefully our paths will cross soon.

Curt Peterson

My father and mother, Del and Joanne Peterson, are the founders of Del Peterson and Associates. As I grew up, I watched the company grow from a local onsite auction company to an international online auction company. My passion is working and meeting people all across the United States. I have an incredible memory when it comes to sports and could win any trivia competition around.  I live in Fremont and during the summer I enjoy boating with my family and being outdoors.   During the spring and fall, I enjoy helping local farmers plant and harvest their crops.

Nick Prenzlow

I grew up in the small town of Oakland, Nebraska and have lived in Nebraska my entire life with no regrets and will always call this place home. After graduating from Oakland-Craig High School, I attended Midland University and graduated with a degree in Business Management – Marketing. In 2006, I began working for DPA Auctions and have never looked back. Since then, I have enjoyed being a part of this company that values its employees as much as its customers. Being with DPA has taught me the value of a family business as well as the vast knowledge it takes to be successful in the auction industry; including but not limited to establishing buyer and seller relationships, determining equipment values and market trends. I take pride in being part of a company that has brought buyers and sellers together for decades and will continue to do so for decades to come. My wife, Valerie, and I met in high school and were married in 2009.  We have been blessed with two amazing children, Brenna and David. When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, watching sports and playing golf.

Tanner Rickett

It’s all in the Family!  I’m from a farm in Ponca, Nebraska where family and community are very important which has helped me in sharing these values with clients and customers alike. My father is an auctioneer and I grew up going to household sales and sale barns.  I started working with DPA auctions when I was in high school cleaning combines and setting up auctions but, now I work with our Sales and Marketing teams to help get the word out about DPA Auctions!  My favorite part about working here is the relationships that I’ve cultivated with clients along the way.  I’ve been fortunate to be with this company for over 10 years and really enjoy the family environment it provides for not only me but, my family as well.  I currently live in Omaha, Nebraska with my wife, Samantha.  We enjoy traveling the globe, Husker Football, and spending time with friends and family.

Melinda Johnson

I was born and raised in Oakland, Nebraska. Our President, Steve Peterson, and I were classmates from Kindergarten through 12^th Grade. After graduating from high school, I attended UN-L, earning a BS in Business Education. My husband, Johnnie, and I live on a farm in rural Northeast Nebraska where he raises SimAngus breeding stock and club calves. We have two grown children—Will and Jennie—and they have each blessed us with a granddaughter and a grandson; so we have 4 grandbabies to spoil! In 2005, I began my career at Del Peterson & Associates (DPA Auctions) and have performed a variety of jobs within the company. Since 2010, I have worked primarily in Accounting, making sure our Sellers are paid and our sales balance. My favorite pastime is babysitting my grand babies; but I also love going to cattle shows with my hubby and spending time with all my “sisters”.   

Dallas Polivka

I was born in Lincoln, grew up in Waverly and got my Bachelor’s degree from Nebraska Wesleyan. I am fairly new to the DPA team as the Director of Finance, and look forward to a longterm career here, I enjoy coming to the office and enjoying such a positive and welcoming atmosphere. I have a diversified background in politics, project management, and real estate development. Outside of the office, I like to work on our local community garden, spend time with my family, and always try to learn something new.

Brie Russell

I grew up alongside DPA. I’ve watched the business grow and acquire great success with this hard-working team. After many years of watching my family put so much passion and work into DPA, I decided it was my turn to contribute. Check out my graphic design work on our social media page! When I’m not at DPA Auctions learning the marketing aspects of the auction business, you can find me in Omaha finishing up my marketing degree at the University of Omaha. I love spending all of my free time outdoors with family and friends.

Nate Peterson

My name is name is Nate Peterson and since I was 4 years old my ultimate dream was to be a pilot, meet new people, and see new parts of the world. When I was a senior in high school I decided it was time to make that happen. Once I graduated college I moved to Lincoln, NE and received a bachelors degree in Business Administration while still continuing my flying. After I graduated I came to work for DPA and was presented with the opportunity to do what my dream has been to do. Now, I get to travel the country meeting new people, helping them with their business, and ultimately with their success. It has been an honor so far to work with our wonderful clients and can’t wait to meet you too.

Pat Dirkschneider

I’m a graduate of Midland Lutheran College with a BSBA and a concentration in marketing and finance.  I spent a little over 20 years in the financial planning industry working primarily with clients in the agriculture and construction industries.  I also spent several years in the auto industry managing the internet and business development department.  I joined DPA Auctions in February of 2016 in Inside Sales and feel my experience with business development and marketing within the industry can add value!  I am married to Emiley and we share 5 children.  I enjoy boating, fishing, and golf.

Taylor Hanson

I grew up right here in the quiet town of Fremont, Nebraska. I spent the first 10 years of my career in the healthcare field.  When I began with DPA Auctions in 2016, I knew little about the agricultural world but I quickly jumped head first into the business as an inside sales rep. Now, for DPA Auctions, my main focus is providing excellent customer service through the administration side of the business.  I like to spend my spare time with my son, Zane, play softball and enjoy time with family.

Stacy Frey

Emiley Dirkschneider

Being born and raised in Nebraska, I have spent the majority of my life here.  I am passionate about helping others. My experience with bringing buyers and sellers together includes multiple years as a Realtor, graduating from Randall School of Real Estate. I am a past speaker on awareness of Organ Donation.  I joined the DPA team in 2014 with the vision of expanding growth within the sales market of online auctions.  Fulfillment of my spare time includes time spent with my husband Pat and our children, traveling and experiencing thrill seeking adventures and anything involving the outdoors with nature.

Lexi Taylor

My name is Lexi Taylor, and I’m from Arlington, Nebraska. Growing up on an acreage has made me extremely passionate about agriculture and the outdoors. Prior to starting my journey with DPA Auctions, my career was in the healthcare field where I found my passion is to help people. I have always enjoyed building and maintaining relationships within the community. I am excited to get back to my agricultural roots by helping people with their buying and selling needs. In my spare time, I enjoy spending my time with family, and friends. I also enjoy playing volleyball and spending time outdoors.

Charles Glenn

My name is Charles Glenn, I was born and raised in Tallahassee, Florida. After completion of college I moved to Columbus, Georgia with hopes of joining the Army. After being told I was medically ineligible, I switched my focus to sales. With multiple jobs in the retail area, I found sales to be my forte. I left sales for a brief time to move into construction, but after a couple short years I went back to where I was meant to be. After my wife and I got married I began looking for a career. I couldn’t be happier with the family I’ve found here at DPA. As an auctioneer specialist my number one goal is to make your experience with us completely hassle free. In my free time I love being outside whether that be fishing, hunting, or camping. I’m huge into sports and enjoy watching any/all sporting events. I love listening to music; country is my favorite.

Tyler Hively

My Name is Tyler Hively, I was born in Fremont, Nebraska and moved to Cape Coral, Florida when I was 10 years old. I graduated From North Ft. Meyers High school in 2011 and moved back to Fremont with my family.  I spent many years in different positions in the food industry including co-managing a bakery. I switched my focus into sales in 2016, when I started working at DPA Auctions. I have enjoyed learning more about the agricultural world and getting to meet the hard-working people that help feed America. I love being able to help farmers find solutions to their equipment needs. When the work day ends, I enjoy kicking back to play some video games or watch movies with my wife, Amy, and dog, Hank. I also enjoy building computers, fishing and taking trips on my motorcycle.

Mackenzie Frey

I was born and raised in Fremont, Nebraska. I am the oldest of three children and the only daughter. I’m a carbon copy of my mother and nothing could make me happier. If I’m not at DPA, you can find me crocheting or petting all the dogs. Although being outside is not one of my favorite things, I do enjoy going on walks and kayaking.

Lori Dittberner

I was raised in St. Paul Nebraska.  As a lifelong rural Nebraskan, I am well versed on the agricultural community.  I spent a lot of time on my grandfather’s farm located outside Verdigre Nebraska riding horses and working cattle! After graduating high school, I moved to the Omaha area and raised my 2 children. I’ve worked in retail; I’ve designed store fixtures and I’ve worked as a kindergarten Paraprofessional in small school in Southeast Nebraska.  I am now living in Fremont.  I am so grateful to be working for DPA Auctions.  I look forward to learning something new every day and talking to different people every day.  In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my adult children and surrounding myself with the people I love.

Megan Nelson

I was born in Nebraska and raised in southern Indiana. I have enjoyed traveling and living in many states across the beautiful USA, yet Nebraska is home. My experience has taught me a lot about people and life, scenery change, people may talk a little differently, and yet they are pretty much the same wherever you are. I graduated college with a Bachelor of Art Degree in Theatre from Baker University in Baldwin, KS. My degree was so much more enlightening than just acting, yes, it taught me how to put on a show. I also learned how to manage time, creative expression, directing and management of others on the team, and dealing with ever evolving change which is so useful in the auction world. Previous employment from working face to face with people in a coffee shop to getting my hands dirty building the equipment I get to help costumers sell and buy today has been beneficial. I joined the DPA Auction family in august of 2021 and is the best place for me to do what I love to do, helping people! Helping people is a top priority for me and using my strengths here at DPA Auctions where you feel like family as we aim for success with your selling and buying needs. In my time away from work, I enjoy spending time making memories with family and friends. Also being a dedicated Volunteer Firefighter for the village of Dodge to help our community in times of need and staying safe

Matt Blaskiewicz

My name is Matt Blaszkiewicz, I was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. I grew up playing hockey my entire life, which took me many places around the country. Eventually, hockey brought me to Fremont NE, where I attended college at Midland University. Midland introduced me to many great people, including the love of my life, Maggie. In my spare time, I enjoy golfing, playing/coaching hockey, going out with friends, and just spending time with Maggie and our dog, Gunner. I was very excited to start working at DPA Auctions at the end of 2021. This place is awesome, the people are welcoming, and passionate about their work. I’m proud to say I help hard working people from all over, seamlessly sell their equipment, so they have one less thing to worry about!

Callie Hajek

I was raised in a farming family in North Bend, NE and have lived on a farm outside of Cedar Bluffs since 2019. I have my cosmetology license and did hair for 5 years but wanted a career change, which lead me to DPA at the end of 2021 and have loved it here. In my free time you will find me with friends, family, or doing some sort of DIY/home improvement project whether that be flipping a piece of furniture or sprucing up landscaping I always have a something in progress!

Gary Pruis

I grew up on a farm in the small town of Morrison Illinois where my parents worked very hard to provide for their four children.  At the time I didn’t realize the importance of farmers until years later, but now that I’m older I realize that farmers are the heartbeat of America that feeds the world.

After high school I started a career with the U.S. Postal Service.  I spent 35 years in customer service, and I took pride in helping people find solutions and solving their problems.

After retiring from the Postal Service, I moved to Nebraska and started working for DPA Auctions as a Traveling Auction Specialist.  My job is photography and videography of machines and equipment for our clients and customers to bring them the best possible value.  Here at DPA Auctions I like to be creative and innovative so that our customer’s equipment stands out from the rest of our competitors.

During my time off from work I love spending time with my son Casey and my daughter Margo and my four grandchildren.  That’s what keeps me young at heart. 

For fun when I can, I like to go on road trips, biking and hiking.  I like doing home renovations for family and friends and when I have time for myself, I design and build furniture.

My philosophy in life is in times of struggle, don’t sweat the details.  There are boundless opportunities in life so keep it simple and don’t complicate it.

Erica Lesko

I was born in Massachusetts and raised in Eastern Washington (state). I moved to Fremont, NE in 2014. In 2013 I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Phoenix. I absolutely love helping people and knew that was what I wanted to do in life! I grew up around farmers and ranchers and understand all that they do, it has been fun and interesting to learn even more. When I heard that DPA was hiring I was quick to apply. I have been in some form of sales my entire working life and love that I am able to incorporate my sales experience with helping people. I pride myself on my customer service skills and the rapport I build with customers. DPA is the best place I have ever worked! They care about their employees and their customers and make sure that they all know it. Being appreciated is an amazing feeling! In my free time I coach my daughter’s soccer team, watch sports, cook /bake, and go on fun adventures whenever her schedule allows.

Jessica Mohr

Trevor Macaluso

My name is Trevor Macaluso, I was born in Arizona and lived there six years before moving to Fremont, NE and calling it home. After graduating from Fremont High School, I attended Metro Community College and UNO graduating with a Business Management degree. I have been working in sales most of my life and when I got the opportunity to start working for DPA I wanted to bring my knowledge and perspectives here to help in any way I can. Outside of work I spend with my fiancé Meghan and love spending time with family and friends. I enjoy bowling and golfing on my free time.

Cameron Ortmeier

My name is Cameron Ortmeier, I was born and raised right here in Fremont. I am the lucky husband to my wife Brooke and father to 4 girls, and 1 boy (2 awesome pups as well). I grew up on an acreage right outside of town, spending most of my time honing my fishing skills or riding horses. I spend most of my free time with the family or coaching our local youth wrestling club. I am very blessed to be able to call DPA home now, after spending 11 years in the ammonia refrigeration business. This job has already taught be so much in terms of communication and the auction community as whole.  I look forward to continuing to learn and helping companies seamlessly sell their equipment.

Emilee Karpf

I was raised in Genoa, Nebraska. Growing up in a farming community has helped me find my passion for agriculture. I decided to continue my education into agriculture, earning my degrees in Animal Science and Agricultural Business. Working with DPA, I look forward to learning more about agriculture and helping producers. In my free time, you can catch me watching sports, spending time with family, or working on my crafts

Alicia Arkfeld

A.J. Sawtelle

Nicole Thompson

I grew up here in Fremont, NE. I’m married to my best friend, together we have 2 boys and 3 dogs. My favorite place to be is anywhere in the beautiful state of Utah. We lived in Wasatch County for about a year and a half before moving back to Nebraska for a great job opportunity that my husband has dreamed of. When not at DPA, I enjoy traveling with my family, cruising mountain trails in our Polaris RZR, playing outside with our kids and re-watching Grey’s Anatomy. 

Jeff Johnson

Carrie Rehder

My name is Carrie Rehder and I am the Digital Content Manager here at DPA. What a blessing it is to work for such a family-oriented and fun-focused company.

I am married to my high school sweetheart, Justin. We have one son, Tucker. We have two dogs Lucy (mastiff) and Ethel (boxer). I have called Fremont home for my entire life, growing up in town then my adult life just outside of town. We live on an acreage between Fremont and Arlington, few things compare to country living.

In my spare time, I love to be with my friends and family, do all things outdoors, travel, read, serve on several boards within the community and attend a lot of youth sporting events.

Nicholas Paulson

I was born and raised in Omaha, NE. However, I have always had family ties to Fremont, NE and graduated from Fremont Bergan. For college I went to Wayne State and then completed at UNO. I spent many years in the retail industry and then most recently the healthcare recruiting industry. I just started at DPA in May 2024! Although I’m new to the industry I know my experience in sales, management, and customer relations can add value. I just got married to my amazing wife Cierra in August 2024. We are both blessed to be parents to our son Kaison who is 2 years old. For hobbies, I enjoy coaching basketball, Husker sports, and hanging out with family/friend.  

Chris Leick

Luke Stamp

Growing up on a row crop operation in the small town of Persia, Iowa is where I found my love of agriculture.  Helping with planting, harvest, and going do weigh checks with my mother drove me to pursue further my education.  After high school I went to the University of Nebraska at Kearney to play baseball and receive a business degree in Industrial sales.  After college I married my lovely wife, Kate.  We have four children” Gracie, Madelyn, Graham, and Isla Jo. 

I have worked in the agricultural industry for over 13 years.  Most recently covering western Iowa as a territory sale manager for Pioneer.  I am extremely blessed to work at DPA Auctions.  DPA is a leader not only in their industry, but also in their community.  I look forward to continuing to serve and grow with DPA Auctions.  Expect big things!

Danika Kerin

I was born and raised in Edina, Minnesota. I came to Nebraska in 2014 to attend Creighton University and graduated in 2018. Since then I have worked in various roles in marketing and recruiting within the education industry gaining a variety of skills to add value to DPA Auctions. I love meeting new people and hearing about their lives and experiences is my favorite part of the job. 

When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and chasing around our two young daughters. We love being outside, riding dirt bikes and visiting my family in Minnesota when we have a free weekend. Additionally, I love to volunteer my time teaching faith formation to third graders at the local church.

Robb Thomsen

I grew up in Fremont, Nebraska, and graduated from Fremont High School. I spent several years working in the custom glass industry and time as a cars sales representative before joining DPA Auctions as an Auction Specialist. Furthermore, I have 3 grown children, 2 grandchildren. Not only that, but I have a boxer named Duke. Most of my leisure time is doing various activities with my children and grandchildren. Likewise, I also enjoy golfing, riding my motorcycle and watching the Huskers and Chiefs football games! I enjoy my role as an Auction Specialist with DPA Auctions because I have a passion for helping people and it allows excellent work-life balance.

Justin Scheel

Bridget Praest

Mara Hayes