Elena Parrello
Elena Parrello is a mechanical engineer and project manager currently contributing her expertise to Taurus Biogas in South Dakota. With a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of North Dakota, Elena combines technical precision with a passion for problem-solving, having gained experience in process engineering, project management, and operations at companies like Platinum Crush LLC. Her early involvement in leadership and innovation—founding a local board game club, earning a private pilot’s license, and gaining experience with unmanned aircraft—reflects her curiosity and commitment to continuous learning.
Elena’s career is defined by a blend of analytical rigor and entrepreneurial spirit. She has leveraged mentorship, structured thinking, and creativity to build thriving professional experiences, from managing complex engineering projects to guiding teams and processes. Her ability to adapt, reflect, and learn from early ventures has strengthened her resilience and honed her leadership style, making her a valued contributor in both corporate and entrepreneurial settings.
Beyond her technical work, Elena actively engages with her community and charitable organizations, including Mercy Multiplied, Feed My Starving Children, and World Vision. Recognized as an Influential Woman for South Dakota in 2026, she uses her platform to inspire others—particularly women—to embrace mentorship, pursue growth, and lead with both courage and integrity. Her story is one of determination, continuous learning, and the purposeful integration of professional excellence with meaningful personal impact.
• Pilot’s License
• University of North Dakota- B.S.
• Courage Award
• Local Board Game Club
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to embracing mentorship, thinking like an entrepreneur, and taking calculated risks that push me to grow and innovate.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to seek out mentorship, embrace intentional learning, take calculated risks, and trust yourself to grow beyond traditional boundaries.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are creativity, curiosity, and building a sense of community, which I also express through hobbies like playing Dungeons & Dragons, collecting manga, and enjoying anime.