ALUMNI IN ACTION

After being born in Vietnam, growing up in the midwest, and spending his early adult years in Chicago and Detroit, Vu Pham was pleasantly surprised when he moved to Montana 25 years ago and experienced the neighborly pioneering spirit that is prevalent across the state. During his time in Montana, it is evident that Vu has made significant contributions to the Montana spirit through the business, non-profit, and healthcare sectors.

Mr. Pham graduated from the University of Montana with a Juris Doctor (JD) in 2001 and also possesses a Masters in Healthcare Administration. Upon graduation with his JD, Vu was fortunate to have the opportunity to Clerk for two Federal judges in Billings for 10 years. Following his tenure in the federal court system, Vu served as the CEO of industrial conglomerate, Weave Management, in Billings for six years, but ultimately wanted to run his own business, so he created a boutique firm. Pham Law Firm includes a general law practice, providing fractional general counsel, along with business consulting, corporate law practice, executive coaching, and advising clients on business sale preparation and transaction. Pham also works in Montana tech start-ups, marketing and ad agencies, and investment companies.

Mr. Pham is married to Laura Watson, who serves as the deputy county attorney in Billings. Together they have a 14-year-old daughter and a 12-year-old son. They enjoy the outdoor activities that Montana has to offer, such as golfing, skiing, rafting, camping, and pickleball, but one of their favorites is rafting, where they can unplug and spend intentional time together.

Vu was part of the Leadership Montana Class of 2014 and ultimately appreciated building relationships with his classmates and working to make Montana better. As he reflects on his experience, Vu is excited about the influence that Leadership Montana alumni can have across the state through the “common language” and commitment to civil discourse. To Vu, Leadership Montana did two very important things for him. One, it helped him see all of the different facets of the state and to fall more in love with Montana. And, two, it taught him a lot. To include how to be humble, grow his own emotional intelligence, and see the great opportunities, leaders, and potential that this state has. He wasn’t involved in his community and paying it forward until graduation from Leadership Montana. This program opened his eyes to the need to directly impact the course and direction of this state.

True to his excitement about making Montana a better place, Mr. Pham serves on the Montana Chamber of Commerce Board, the Big Sky Chapter of the Young President’s Organization, the SCL Health Montana Regional Board, the SCL Health Corporate Operating Board, the Board of Special Olympics Montana, National Air Show, and Montana Billings Finance Authority.