Photo of Chad Peterson

Chad joined the Redstone team in July 2025 as a Research and Strategy Specialist.  Before joining Redstone, Chad worked as a Public Affairs Strategist at one of South Dakota’s largest marketing firms, where he helped clients in the political, agricultural, and public affairs sectors.  He also has direct campaign experience, having worked on statewide gubernatorial and congressional races.  Chad graduated from the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a minor in History.  He is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in History, with a focus on South Dakota’s political and economic development during Governor Janklow’s administration.

Chad reflects our core values. Here is what colleagues say about Chad:

  • "Chad is a walking encyclopedia.  Ask him about a law passed in 1980 or the legacy of Governor Bill Janklow, and he'll deliver a detailed answer faster than you can say 'South Dakota politics'."
  • "Chad is ready and willing to dig into any issue and brings a thorough understanding of both the past and present political landscapes to the table."
  • "Growing up on a farm in Southeastern South Dakota, Chad developed a strong work ethic rooted in accountability, responsibility, and teamwork that does not go unnoticed by his colleagues and clients."

Most interesting place he's visited in South Dakota: Chad has visited more than 290 of South Dakota’s 311 towns across all four corners of the state.  Two events stand out: Interior’s Frontier Day’s Rodeo on the 4th of July and the South Dakota State Fair in Huron. Together, they capture the spirit of South Dakota and are pretty interesting places to be. 

Little known fact about Chad:  He grew up on a farm and is possibly the only Legislative Page in state history to break his leg during session. 

Chad's favorites:

  • TV Shows:  West Wing, The Wire, and Sopranos 
  • Books:  Omeros by Derek Walcott, Hero of a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell, and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
  • Podcasts:  The Remnant with Jonah Goldberg, Freakonomics Radio with Stephen Dubner, and the Lex Fridman Podcast

While not at the office working with the Redstone Team, Chad enjoys:  Being outdoors, camping and hiking, playing with his two golden retrievers (Boomer & Birdie), and spending time with his fiancée, Chesney.

Places where Chad is serving to Make It Better:  Sioux Empire United Way, Junior Achievement, and 4-H. 

Chad’s educational background:

  • University of South Dakota:  Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, minor in History (2016)
  • University of South Dakota: Master of Arts in History (currently pursuing)