Dan graduated from Montana State University with a bachelor’s of science in kinesiology and went on to earn a master’s in prosthetics and orthotics from University of Washington. Before joining KPO, Dan worked both in private practice in the Seattle area and as research prosthetist for the VA Center of Excellence for Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering.

“I have always had an interest in health science and medicine, but it wasn't until I was exposed to this field while in college that it really caught my eye,” Dan says. “I love the hands-on aspect of my work, the relationships I develop with patients and helping them return to a more mobile and functional lifestyle.”

Outside of work, Dan and his wife, Alyssa, keep busy raising their three daughters. Dan enjoys living and experiencing everything the Inland Northwest has to offer. He is an avid mountain biker who also enjoys running, hiking, and snow skiing.

Steve joined KPO in the summer of 2020 after working for the Puget Sound Veteran’s  Administration and Portland VA healthcare systems. He was introduced to prosthetics and orthotics during four years as a corpsman in the U.S. Navy, including a year in Afghanistan. When he came home, Steve attended the University of Washington and earned a bachelor’s degree in prosthetics/orthotics. “I truly enjoy working in the O&P industry, and other than time away from my family, I consider it a hobby. As Mark Twain said, Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

Originally from Auburn, Washington, Steve and wife Sheena, son Ethan and daughter Elliana, were happy to exchange the hectic westside for north Idaho. The full time  CPO and full-time dad finds time to play guitar on his church’s worship team. In fact, “play” in one form or another, rounds out Steve’s life playing with his kids, playing basketball, softball and the guitar.

“My efforts to be a compassionate and thorough practitioner have a vast impact on the lives of other individuals,” Steve says. “People may forget my name, but my efforts will live on through the life of my patients.”

Julie was born and raised in Michigan, but also grew up parts of her childhood in Ecuador, South America!

While studying at Indiana Wesleyan University for her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science she found an interest in orthotics and prosthetics. She then moved to Minnesota to begin O&P school at Century College in White Bear Lake, MN and fell in love with the field. She completed her Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics from Concordia University St. Paul. As of early 2025 Julie has completed her residency in Prosthetics and is now a Certified Prosthetist! She is continuing her O&P journey and is currently completing her Orthotic Residency with us.

When not at work, Julie enjoys being outside exploring her new home in North Idaho with her dog, Ben.

“I am excited to translate my knowledge and hand skills from the classroom/lab to impacting patient lives through improving mobility with a team that provides quality and compassionate care.”

Willette has been in the field of orthotics & prosthetics for over 35 years, focusing on all areas of orthotics. She received her training & credentials in O & P from Century College in White Bear Lake, Minnesota and also received a bachelors degree in healthcare management from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

In 1985, Willette moved from Montana to Minnesota to complete her education in O & P.  "I intended to be gone for only three or four years but, you know how it is, you get a great job & suddenly 15 years have flown by." That "great job" was at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, where she specialized in pediatric spinal orthotics. Her expertise was reflected by being asked to guest lecture & teach spinal orthotics at Century College. She has also lectured & taught in South America.

In 2000, Willette made another major move to Idaho. As a North Dakota native, she likes to joke that "it's the warmest place I've ever lived."  She initially worked in Spokane, WA before joining KPO in 2008. At KPO, she treats a broad spectrum of orthotic needs.

Willette enjoys a variety of interests including music, culinary, kayaking, hiking, gardening, cross country skiing and wooden boat restoration with her other half, Duncan. She loves spending time with her family. Growing up as a middle child in a family of 15 has taught her ample lessons in tolerance & negotiating."

Our patients motivate and inspire me," Willette says, "and give me a desire to provide them with something that will improve their quality of life, comfort, & function. I initially got into the field because the unique blend of interests & skills required attracted me. Years of working in the field have taught me that it's really all about the patients, while having the bonus of being challenging & fulfilling."