Janet Sperry
CEO/President
Janet Sperry is the heart of Dakota Matting. She founded Dakota on the premise that “handshakes matter, honesty is a given, and reputation is all you have.”
Janet practices a unique, truly customer-focused approach to business that sets Dakota apart from its competitors. Bringing an experienced leadership and business background to the table, Janet understands the importance of earning one’s trust, delivering service, and building long-term relationships. Her strengths include business development, strategic growth, and diversification. She believes in building a people-centric culture.
Janet is a strong advocate for mat specification and performance standards through her participation and commitment to the North American Matting Association. Dakota is helping to advance industry practices for low subgrade conditions such as marshes, swamps, and tidal areas.
Janet has led Dakota Matting’s transition toward a skills-based organizational structure, maximizing employee potential and operational efficiency. Janet is also a mentor and motivator, inspiring employees to excel through empowerment and recognition.
Prior to her career in the matting industry, Janet worked as an oncologist for over 12 years. She was well-respected by her peers, and she cared for many patients and veterans who permanently impacted her life. This unique background taught her to lead with a people-first mentality, balance urgency with compassion, and, importantly, always remain humble, grounded, and honest.
Janet exemplifies the qualities of a visionary leader who combines long-term strategy with daily, hands-on decision-making. She is committed to maintaining a people-first mentality, prioritizing relationships, trust, and integrity in all business dealings. She is a problem-solver who balances urgency and compassion and pushes for continuous improvement and new standards in the access matting industry.