Meet John

John Parker grew up in the Northwest Region of Indiana. After graduating high school, he joined the Air Force serving 3 years Active Duty, and 1 year in the Air Force Reserves. During his time in the Air Force, he met his wife and best friend Teresa. Together they have lived in Indiana, Europe, South Dakota and now the state they call home, Montana. While stationed in Germany, John earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Management and Supervision from the University of Maryland European Division.

After returning to the United States, John and Teresa were stationed in Rapid City SD. It was there that he traded government service for a sales position with a local company, where he served 19 years in many roles, i.e.: Sales Manager, Vice President of Sales, and Vice President of Training and Recruiting. After this position, John was employed with a local MT company where he served as Director of Human Resources. Through his career with these two companies, his passion for excellence, and his faith he has developed a dynamic curriculum applicable to any employer.

The Start of People 1st

In January of 2020, John and his daughter, Jordan, started People 1st with the goal of changing one heart at a time. His personal mission statement is as follows:

"To serve, mentor and inspire those around me with the purpose of influencing their development both professionally and personally. To glorify God by striving to be significant in someone's life everyday."

Below are just a few of the companies he has provided training for:

- Transportation Security Administration

- Montana Army & Air National Guard

- Sanders County Public Schools

- Montana Silversmith

- Pierce Companies

- Carroll College

- Prairie County Public Employees

- Lewis and Clark County Sheriff's Office

- Great Falls Realtor's Association

The Heart Behind The Name

The People 1st logo is much more than something we place on hats, shirts, or business cards. It represents the values that guide my life and the foundation on which I built this company.

The red and blue, set against a white background, reflect the colors of the American flag. They represent a country I proudly served and am grateful to call home. My military service taught me the importance of character, teamwork, discipline, and putting others before yourself—values that continue to shape who I am today.

People 1st is more than the name of my company; it is a leadership philosophy. I believe that when leaders genuinely invest in their people—by engaging them, coaching them, mentoring them, and leading them with purpose—there is virtually no limit to what a team can accomplish. Great organizations are built by leaders who understand that people are always the greatest asset.

One of the most meaningful parts of the logo is the "T" in People 1st. It isn't actually a letter "T" at all—it is a cross. The cross represents my faith in Jesus Christ, where I find my strength, wisdom, and direction. It serves as a daily reminder that leadership is about serving others with humility, integrity, compassion, and love.

Every time you see the People 1st logo, I hope you see more than a company. I hope you see a commitment to faith, family, country, and people. Those principles are not just part of my business—they are the values I strive to live every day.