Notable Diverse Leaders Honoree
From mechanical engineering to empowering Minnesotans, Alex Merritt has built a career around helping people and organizations thrive. Now, our Vice President of Program Operations is being recognized for the leadership, heart, and purpose she brings to her work.
For Alex Merritt, building something meaningful has always been about more than the finished product. It's about the people whose lives are better because of it.
That belief has helped shape a career that has taken her from engineering and corporate leadership to creating opportunities for individuals and families throughout Minnesota.
Today, Twin Cities R!SE is proud to celebrate Alex, our Vice President of Program Operations, for being named a 2026 Notable Diverse Leader by Twin Cities Business.
Selected among 21 honorees, Alex is being recognized for her leadership, professional accomplishments, and commitment to making a difference in the community.
But her story is about much more than the recognition she's received along the way.
A Career Built With Purpose
A proud St. Louis native, Alex began her professional journey as a mechanical engineer. She spent nearly two decades at General Mills, where she built a successful career leading teams, solving challenges, and finding ways to make things work better.
Over time, her passion for developing people became just as important as her passion for solving problems.
In 2021, Alex brought that experience and perspective to Twin Cities R!SE.
Although her work had taken a new direction, the purpose behind it remained familiar. Instead of improving manufacturing systems, she was now helping strengthen programs that give people the tools and support to build brighter futures.
As Vice President of Program Operations, Alex leads the teams responsible for Outreach, Education, Career Coaching, and Employer Services. Together, they help R!SERs recognize their strengths, overcome barriers, and prepare for meaningful employment.
Under her leadership, TCR has experienced significant growth in the number of people served and employment placements.
But behind every number is someone working toward something important.
A parent hoping to provide more stability for their family. Someone rebuilding their confidence. A R!SER discovering that their past doesn't have to determine their future.
That's what makes this work so meaningful. And it's why Alex's leadership matters.
Her commitment to helping people thrive extends beyond TCR. Throughout her career, Alex has mentored emerging leaders, served on nonprofit boards, and advocated for opportunities that strengthen communities.
She's also the creator of The Love Engineer®, where she combines her engineering background with a passion for relationships, communication, and intentional living.
At the heart of her message is a belief that beautifully connects the different chapters of her journey:
"Your best life is built by design, not by default."
It's a reminder that meaningful change doesn't simply happen. It takes intention, commitment, and people who believe something better is possible.
TCR President and CEO Emma Corrie captured that spirit when she shared with Twin Cities Business:
"What distinguishes Alex most is not simply the positions she holds or the initiatives she leads; it is the consistency with which she transforms systems to help people flourish."
And perhaps that's what makes this recognition especially meaningful.
Alex has spent her career finding ways to make things better, but her greatest impact isn't found in a list of awards or professional accomplishments.
It's found in the opportunities she helps create and the people she empowers along the way.
We're incredibly proud to see Alex recognized for the leadership and dedication she brings to this work. Her experience strengthens our organization, her commitment supports our team, and her belief in what's possible helps move our mission forward.
Congratulations, Alex! We're grateful to have you at Twin Cities R!SE and excited to celebrate this well-deserved honor.
Read more about Alex's recognition in Twin Cities Business.